Courses in Geography
A GOG 101 Introduction to the Physical Environment (3)
Introduction to the three main fields of physical geography (climatology, biogeography, and geomorphology) from an integrated earth systems viewpoint. The major world climate, vegetation, soil and landform regions are treated as process-response systems whose physical patterns and interrelationships, causes, and significance are examined. Includes assessments of the role of human impacts for global and regional change.
A GOG 102/102Z Introduction to Human Geography (3-4)
Introduction to key elements of human geography as a social science, (including population, cultural, economic, and political geography), focusing on the disciplinary themes of place, space and landscape. These themes are applied at a variety of scales, from local to the regional to the global, with particular emphasis with geographical concerns with cross-cultural comparisons among regions and with the relationships of local and regional phenomena to global processes. Only one version of A GOG 102 may be taken for credit.
A GOG 125 (= A USP 125) The American City (3)
Provides a broad introduction to American urbanism from a geographical-historical perspective, focusing on spatial forms and the built environment, the social and economic processes that produced them, and their contested cultural meanings. Surveys the legacies of industrialization, immigration, planning interventions, and the struggles for rights by minorities and women, and poses questions about our urban future in an age of globalization, information technology, and environmental crisis.
A GOG 160/160V/160X/160Z (= A EAC 160/160V/160X/160Z) China: People and Places (3)
This course provides a systematic introduction of China as an emerging political and economic power in the context of globalization. Main topics include historical evolution, uneven physical and social geography, economic reform, rapid urbanization, population growth and family planning, environmental change, tradition and culture change, and persisting and emerging problems. This course aims to help student better understand China. This course also teaches students how to search, use and evaluate information for their research in an increasingly digital and information-oriented world. Only one version of A GOG/A EAC 160 may be taken for credit.
A GOG 200 Cultural Geography (3)
This course explores key themes in cultural geography through a series of case studies relating to specific places, drawn from different regions of the world and from different time periods. These case studies provide contexts for examining key disciplinary concerns in cultural geography, including but not limited to culture itself, hearths of cultural innovation, processes of spatial diffusion, the creation of distinct spaces by culture groups, the spatial scales of culture, the meanings that groups assign to particular spaces, spatial interaction and cross-influences among cultures, the cultural elements of spatial behavior, territoriality, cultural conflict over space, and the changing meanings of places over time. Prerequisite(s): A GOG 102.
A GOG 201 (= A ENV 201 & A GEO 201) Environmental Analysis (3)
Uses laboratory work and local field excursions to give students “hands-on” experience in physical geography and environmental sciences. Focuses on human impacts on the environment and on problems of environmental contamination. Only one version may be taken for credit.
A GOG 220 (= A USP 220) Introductory Urban Geography (3)
Introductory survey of findings and theory of urban geography, which deals with the form and function of cities. Major themes include: history of urban form; spatial structure of modern urban systems; and the internal structure of the city, emphasizing social and economic patterns.
A GOG 225/225Z (= A GLO 225/225Z & A USP 225/225Z) World Cities: Geographies of Globalization (3)
This course takes a critical look at globalization and its impacts on cities around the world. Globalization includes an array of economic, cultural, and political forces that are effectively shrinking our world. The first part of the course focuses on the ways transnational movements or 'flows' of trade, finance, people and culture operate in and through a network of linked `global' cities, the top tier of which function as the `command and control' centers at the `core' of the global economy. The second part of the course shifts attention to the global `periphery' and to some of the lower tier cities of the world's urban hierarchy: in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. The concern here will be to examine the local consequences of globalization in two overlapping realms. The first will involve looking for and at evidence of the less salutary effects of globalization forces in these cities: for example, higher levels of social and spatial inequality, deteriorating environmental and health conditions, diminished per-capita share of local resources and infrastructures, and cultural homogenization. The other realm will be an investigation of local activities that occur in response and as resistance to the pervasive forces of globalization. The goal here will be to document and evaluate the effectiveness of some of the local movements and organizations that have struggled for social justice in the face of what they perceive to be oppressive (global) economic and cultural forces. After taking A GOG/A GLO/A USP 225 students will be able to compare cities on the global 'periphery' with each other, as well as with those in the global 'core' to learn about and understand how some aspects of economic and cultural globalization play out and are adapted to `on the ground' and to think critically about how people might effectively organize their thoughts and exercise their rights to the city in the era of globalization. A GOG/A GLO/A USP 225Z are the writing intensive versions of A GOG/A GLO/A USP 225; only one version may be taken for credit.
T GOG 230 (= T EAC 230) Reform and Resistance in Contemporary China (4)
The course provides a survey of economic and social change in reform-era China (1978-present), beginning with a broad review of the policies that have brought about such a monumental restructuring of the economy. In the later sections of the in-class discussion will focus on the human impacts of the reforms and the extent to which the Chinese people have been constrained in their struggles for a better life and a more just and equitable society. Readings and materials from other media (including contemporary film and literature) will be selected to illustrate some of the ways the Chinese people have been exerting agency in shaping their own fate and resisting the inevitable forces that seem likely to overwhelm them in the new era of free-wheeling capitalism. The classroom discussions will focus on specific case studies of resistance drawn from a variety of sites and a range of contexts in contemporary China, which will be discussed and analyzed in the context of social science theories about the nature of resistance and its outcomes. The course will present ideas and a body of literature that question and critique the dominant 'narrative of success' that currently pervades Western media and academic curricula. Formerly A EAC/A GOG 230H. Only one version of T GOG 230 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): open to Honors College students only.
A GOG 240 Patterns of American Immigration (3)
This course provides a survey of immigration to the United States, focusing on key characteristics of immigrant groups and their cultures, in relation to both their places of origin and their destinations in this country.
T GOG 244Y Global Population Debates (3)
This course offers an in-depth introduction to the field of demography. Specially, it introduces main demographic concepts, theories and debates, offers an overview of world population pattern and regional variations, examines population processes and structure, and studies the impact of population on development and environment. Through case studies and debates, this course offers diverse demographic perspectives and tools (terminologies, methodologies and theories) to analyze population in both developed and developing countries. After taking this course, students should develop their own demographic perspective to facilitate their understanding of the world. Prerequisite(s): open to Honors College students only.
A GOG 250/250Z (= A LCS 250/250Z) Geography of Latin America (3)
An introduction to the geographical diversity of Latin America, reviewing the Continent’s physical features, natural resources, societies, economies and politics, and relating them to its history and cultural traditions. Particular attention will be given to rural and urban living conditions, social and regional inequalities, population distribution, internal and international migration, and socioeconomic development issues. Only one version of A GOG 250 may be taken for credit. May not be offered in 2014-2015.
A GOG 260 (= A EAC 160 & A GLO 260) China in the Global Arena (3)
An introduction to the development of China’s economy and society since the death of Chairman Mao Tse-tung in 1976. Focuses on urbanization, industrialization, export-oriented development, and participation in global trade, finance, and politics. Taught in Shanghai, this multidisciplinary course helps students understand the dynamics of China’s rapid economic growth over the last three decades, and how Chinese scholars interpret the nation’s growing importance in the global system. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): taken after, or simultaneously with A EAC 100.
A GOG 266/266Y (= A GLO 266/266Y & A USP 266/266Y) India: Development Debates (3)
Analyzes the 20th and early 21st century development of India as a nation state, discussing the broad range of ideas and policy proposals relating to wealth, poverty, socio-economic development, urbanization, and nation-building. Reviews British colonial policies and attitudes, the ideas of important advocates of Indian Independence, the impact of partition, national self-reliance policies, and national planning in the first three decades after Independence, and the more recent economic liberalizations and opening to the global market and transnational investment. Only one version may be taken for credit.
T GOG 266/266Y (= T GLO 266/266Y) India: Development Debates (3)
T GOG 266/266Y is the Honors College version of A GOG 266/266Y; only one version may be taken for credit.
A GOG 270 (= A AFS 270) Geography of Africa (3)
Geographic analysis of the continent of Africa. The diversity of the African continent will be stressed by examining its physical environment, resources, social, cultural, economic, and political systems. Emphasis upon the demographic as well as spatial planning aspects of geography. Only one version of A GOG 270 may be taken for credit.
A GOG 290 Introduction to Cartography (4)
An introductory course in the theory and techniques of map production. Reviews and discusses the elements of cartographic theory including the relationships between human perception and map symbology. Students will produce a series of hand-drafted maps over the duration of the course.
A GOG 293 Use and Interpretation of Aerial Photographs (3)
Interpretation and examination of air photos for geographic investigations. Topics include the development of the evaluation of photo keys, thematic mapping, and analysis of landscape elements.
A GOG 304 Climatology (3)
Survey of the fundamentals of climate system. Particular attention is paid to the explanation rather than the description of atmospheric and oceanic processes. Emphasis is given to the application of concepts of environmental physics to selected natural objects: terrestrial planets, the World Ocean, continents, cities, vegetation, animals, and humans. Energy balance study at different temporal and spatial scales is used as a methodological tool to provide a better understanding of such concepts as the “greenhouse” effect, climate sensitivity, photosynthesis, the metabolism of animals, survival of humans in different climates, etc. Work on the Internet with remote weather stations and climate related resources is a part of the course project. Prerequisite(s): A GOG 101 or A ATM 103, or permission of instructor.
A GOG 308 (= A EAC 308 & A GLO 308) Debating Contemporary China (1)
Enables students who have recently studied in China to discuss and debate major contemporary issues: the factors underlying China’s rapid economic growth; the impact of China’s economic growth on society, environment, and the global system; the future of China’s political system; the future of China’s population policies; the dynamics of Chinese cities; the situation of Tibet and of ethnic and religious minorities; the future of Taiwan; relations with other Asian neighbors. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): at least 3 credits of Study Abroad coursework in China sometime in the previous year.
A GOG 310 (= A BIO 311 & U UNI 310) World Food Crisis (3)
Interdisciplinary approach to understanding world food problems through analyses of social, political, economic, nutritional, agricultural, and environmental aspects of world hunger. Faculty from several departments in the sciences, humanities, and social and behavioral sciences present views from various disciplines. Only one version of may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing, or permission of instructor.
A GOG 321 (= A EAS 321 & A LCS 321) Exploring the Multicultural City (3)
This course will explore the human dimensions and implications of ethnic diversity in the United States, focusing on New York City. The course utilizes a variety of methods to introduce students to the multicultural city, beginning in the classroom but ending with fieldwork in a specific New York neighborhood. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A GOG 102, 120 or 225, 125, 160, 220, or 240. May not be offered in 2014-2015.
A GOG 324 (= A USP 324) The City on Computer (3)
An introduction to the use of geographic technology in studying urban features and patterns. The course provides a conceptual bridge between introductory courses in urban geography and specialized courses in geographic techniques. Students will acquire familiarity with relevant software, data sources and methods of analysis through regular computing laboratory assignments. Prerequisite(s): any two of the following: A GOG 125, 220, 225, A USP 201.
A GOG 328 (= A USP 328 & A WSS 328) Gender, Space, and Place (3)
Power relations and categories of social difference are reflected by dramatic inequalities in local environments, and in the quantity and quality of available space. This course examines, through the lenses of feminist geography and planning, how space is invested with social meaning. It discusses how the built environment affects and reflects relations of gender, sexuality, and ethnicity, and considers how these social classifications produce “geographies of difference.” Gender is also related to nationalism, colonialism, “geographic skills,” and feminist research methodologies. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A GOG/A USP 125, A USP 201, or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2014-2015.
A GOG 330Y (= A USP 330Y) Principles of Environmental Management (3)
Examines issues and problems arising from the interactions between humans and their physical environment. Explores the degradation of environmental systems resulting from human use and modification, as well as the impact of environmental processes on human systems. The policy options for dealing with environmental issues and problems are investigated. Prerequisite(s): A GOG 101 and either A GOG 201 or A USP 201; or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2014-2015.
A GOG 344Y World Population (3)
This course offers an in-depth introduction to the field of demography. Specially, it introduces main demographic concepts, theories and debates, offers an overview of world population pattern and regional variations, examines population processes and structure, and studies the impact of population on development and environment. Through case studies and debates, this course offers diverse demographic perspectives and tools (terminologies, methodologies and theories) to analyze population in both developed and developing countries. After taking this course, students should develop their own demographic perspective to facilitate their understanding of the world.
A GOG 345 Economic Geography (3)
Examines the spatial patterns of economic activity, including agriculture, manufacturing retail and wholesale trade, transportation, and the service sector. Location theory, models and empirical case studies are used to assess the spatial processes “explaining” the distribution patterns of economic activity. Economic development strategies at the state and regional levels are also investigated.
A GOG 350 (= A EAC 350) Urban Development in China (3)
Provides a comprehensive understanding of urban development in China. Reviews the history of urban development in China and examines the demographic, social, economic, and cultural dimensions of the urbanization process. Analyzes the emerging urban land and housing markets, and the changing urban landscape.
A GOG 354 (= A LCS 354) Environment & Development (3)
A survey of international development issues, focusing on the impact of economic growth, population growth, and increased consumption of natural resources on global and local environments. This course focuses primarily on the poorer countries of the world, and particularly on tropical environments. It discusses issues of deforestation, desertification, and increased vulnerability to man-made and natural hazards. Only one version of A GOG 354 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A GOG 101 or 102, or permission of instructor.
A GOG 356 Geography of the United States (3)
A systematic treatment of the physical, economic, and cultural geography of the United States; selected regional problems of land utilization and of geographic adjustments. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing, or permission of instructor.
A GOG 365/365Z Geography of Europe (3)
Overview of the physical and human geography of Europe considered as a whole, followed by a more intensive discussion of selected topics on the Mediterranean countries, the British Isles, France, Germany, and the countries of east-central Europe from Scandinavia to the Balkans. Cultural, political, and economic issues will be emphasized, with analysis of contemporary matters in their historical context. Only one version of A GOG 365 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing, or permission of instructor.
A GOG 366 (= A GLO 366) India: Field Study of Development Issues (3)
A faculty-led field course requiring a minimum of three weeks full-time study in India. Broadens and deepens the agenda of A GOG/A GLO 266 “India: Development Debates”, examining urban and rural development issues in and around three major Indian cities. Each city will be home to the course for one week. Students will study major issues (e.g., the management of urban traffic flows, the organization of small-scale retailing, the redevelopment of poor neighborhoods, and the work of micro-business and social welfare NGO’s) through a combination of direct observation, institutional visits, and conversations with local experts. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor and the Office of International Education.
A GOG 375 (= A USP 375) Methods of Urban Analysis (3)
This class will build a foundation for the lager field of statistical analysis and planning methodologies. Students will develop fundamental skills, such as data collection and presentation, descriptive analysis, and data interpretation. When the course successfully completed, students will be to identify different types of data, accurate present data in table and graphic format, describe and analysis data using statistic tools such as measures of central tendency and dispersion, conduct hypothesis testing, build confidence intervals and use these tools to analyze places. Prerequisite(s): A MAT 108 or equivalent.
A GOG 390 Intermediate Cartography (3)
Techniques of reproduction graphics with emphasis on map planning and construction. Utilization of half-tone, color-key, and other production processes as models of cartographic expression. Prerequisite(s): A GOG 290.
A GOG 404 Topics in Physical Geography (1–4)
In-depth examination of a significant topic in Physical Geography. May be repeated up to 9 credits when content varies. Prerequisite(s): A GOG 101 or permission of instructor.
A GOG 405 Topics in Human Geography (1–4)
In-depth examination of a significant topic in Human Geography. May be repeated up to 9 credits when content varies. Prerequisite(s): A GOG 102 or permission of instructor.
A GOG 406 Topics in Geographic Information Systems (1–4)
In-depth examination of a significant topic in Geographic Information Systems (cartography, GIS, remote sensing, global positioning, etc.) May be repeated up to 9 credits when content varies. Prerequisite(s): A GOG 290 for cartography topics; A GOG 496/A USP 456 for GIS topics; A GOG 385 for remote sensing topics; or permission of instructor.
A GOG 407 Biogeography (3)
The study of the distribution of organisms and adaptations to their environments, both in the past and present. This includes studies of all patterns of geographic variation in nature in species diversity and species distribution. Prerequisite(s): A GOG 101, A BIO 102, or A ENV 105, or equivalent.
A GOG 414 Computer Mapping (3)
Introduces the student to the fundamental techniques and applications of automated map production. Lectures include discussions of algorithm and program development as well as existing software packages. Students will also be introduced to current problems and research in automated map production. Covers a wide range of topics including but not limited to automated drafting, computer generated projections, coordinate systems and transformations, data structures, and discussions of algorithms for specific applications. Prerequisite(s): A GOG 290 or permission of instructor.
A GOG 417 Geography Internships (3–6)
Work in cartography, remote sensing, environmental, or other offices to gain pre-professional experience in applied geography. Carried out under the joint supervision of faculty and the host office. Internships are open only to qualified juniors and seniors who have an overall grade point average of 2.50 or higher. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. S/U graded.
A GOG 430/430Z (= A USP 430/430Z) Environmental Planning (3)
Environmental planning is much more than preservation of pristine land. Through the examination of environmental movements, energy policy, the land use-transportation nexus, environmental justice, and environmental policy formation, at the end of this course, students will be able to: (1) identify how normative bias influences planning and policy choices; (2) describe major conflicts in environmental planning and policy; and (3) understand the relationship of scale and environmental planning/policy options. Only one version of A GOG 430 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A USP 201 or permission of instructor.
A GOG 431 Climatic Change (3)
The evolution of the global climate is explained through the analysis of feedback loops between different components of the climate system; atmosphere, oceans, living organisms, the carbon cycle, volcanic activity and changes in solar luminosity. Emphasis is placed on the study of climate sensitivity to global factors, and application of this knowledge to the forecast of future human-produced climatic changes. Prerequisite(s): A GOG 101 or A ATM 103, or permission of instructor.
A GOG 440 Political Geography (3)
Examines the spatial character of political processes at the local, national and global scales. Major themes include: territory, identity, and the state; localism, regionalism, and separatism; colonialism and decolonization; geopolitics; and internal and international political conflicts.
A GOG 442Z Geography of Religion (3)
This course provides a detailed examination of the study of religion from the perspectives of human geography, focusing both of geographical insights into religion as a cultural phenomenon and the ways in which the study of religion can provide insights into broader concerns within human geography. Key topics include the development of religious hearths, processes in the diffusion of religion, the role of place in the diversity within and among religious systems, religious efforts to exert cultural territoriality over secular space, and the meanings and uses of sacred space at various scales. The course will emphasize particular case studies, as appropriate. Prerequisite(s): A GOG 102 or permission of instructor.
A GOG 447 Development and Underdevelopment (3)
An analytical survey of “Third World” development theories and the development strategies they inspire. Topics covered include traditional concepts of natural and human resources identification and use, geographic diffusion, modernization, and economic growth, as well as challenges to the prevailing ideas and practices such as dependency, sustainable development, and community empowerment. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing, or permission of instructor.
A GOG 450 Independent Study in Geography (1-6)
The student will work independently on a directed reading, field survey, or individual research project in geography. A member of the faculty will authorize and advise the project, which will be dimensioned in proportion to the number of credits being taken. The student will submit a final report for assessment. May be repeated up to 6 credits when content varies. Prerequisite(s): 9 credits in Geography, junior or senior class standing, and permission of instructor.
A GOG 460 (= A USP 460) People, Place, and Power (3)
This course will examine the relationships between current energy supplies and alternatives that are renewable and more environmentally sustainable. It begins with defining energy then turns to an analysis of the economic, social, political, and technological factors that determine the potential a carbon free energy future. At the end of this course, students will be able to 1) identify how normative bias influences planning and policy choices; 2) describe major conflicts in energy planning and policy; and 3) understand the differences between physical/technological barriers versus economic/political impediments to sustainable energy planning/policy options.
A GOG 470Z (= A EAC 470Z) China After Deng Xiaoping (3)
This course examines some of the issues associated with modernization and economic development in Post-Deng Xiaoping China. The course focuses on the era of economic reform associated with Deng, and is particularly concerned with the social, spatial, and political ramifications of China’s entry into the global economy. Only one version of A GOG 470Z may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): any of the following: A EAC 170, A GOG 102, 160, or 220.
A GOG 479 Fundamentals of Applied Global Positioning Systems (GPS) (3)
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of global positioning system technology as applied to the geosciences. Topics include background and history, signal structure, resolution, accuracy, data collection techniques, basic geodesy, projections and data, and applications. Field work and lab exercises complement lecture material.
A GOG 480 (= A USP 480) Advanced Urban Geography (3)
Explores some of the theoretical debates and empirical research conducted by geographers and planners interested in the contemporary city. Adopts a political/economy approach to the investigation of social problems currently pervasive in the capitalist city, including: inner city poverty and the underclass, homelessness, gender-related issues, racial segregation, and crime problems. Prerequisite(s): A GOG 102, 210, or 220.
A GOG 484 (formerly A GOG 385) Remote Sensing I (3)
Introduction to the concepts and interdisciplinary applications of remote sensing. The basic principles of theory and practice are presented for earth resource management. Photographic and non-photographic sensors are examined. Visual and digital image analysis techniques are introduced. Students will interpret color infrared, multispectral, and other sensor imagery for a variety of purposes. May not be taken by students with credit for A GOG 385. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing, or permission of instructor.
A GOG 485 Remote Sensing II (3)
Examination of current concepts and research in digital image analysis with emphasis on multispectral and radar data sets. Students will utilize a variety of data sources including optical and digital imagery, maps, census data, ground surveys, and other GIS data layers in completing an interpretation and analysis of selected geoscience aspects of environmental concern. Methods and importance of accuracy assessment are introduced. Prerequisite(s): A GOG 484 or equivalent, or permission of instructor.
A GOG 492 Geography Internship (3)
An internship enabling students to extensively use their geographic knowledge and skill in a professional setting. Students need to provide detailed responsibilities and requirements for the internship for the approval of their advisor, and arrange for the supervisor of their proposed Internship to discuss it with their advisor, before registering for the Capstone Experience. At the end of the internship, students need to submit a report to position their internship experience in the broader context of geographic debates and paradigms, which must be approved by the advisor. Internships are open only to qualified juniors and seniors who have an overall grade point average of 2.50 or higher. Prerequisite(s): completion of all required geography core courses and at least two advanced courses in the cluster that it is related to the Capstone Experience, or permission of the advisor. S/U graded.
A GOG 493Z Research Project in Geography (3)
A research project that addresses a specific geographic question. A paper will be prepared in consultation with a two-faculty committee (one of them is the main advisor) and with opportunities for revision. The Research Project is for seniors only. Prerequisite(s): completion of all required geography core courses and at least two advanced courses in the cluster that is related to the project, and permission of the advisor.
A GOG 496 (= A USP 456) Geographic Information Systems (3)
Introduction to the structure, design, and application of data base management systems designed to accept large volumes of spatial data derived from various sources. The student will learn how to efficiently store, retrieve, manipulate, analyze, and display these data according to a variety of user-defined specifications. Prerequisite(s): familiarity with maps and coordinate systems.
A GOG 498 (= A USP 457) Advanced GIS (3)
Introduces students to ARC/INFO, a geographic information system (GIS) with extensive analytical and cartographic components. Students will use ARC/INFO to compile and analyze data for selected research projects in Geography and Planning. Major topics include data conversion procedures, registration and rectification of digital data, spatial statistical analysis, and cartographic display. Prerequisites: A GOG 496/A USP 456 or equivalent courses.
A GOG 499 Senior Honors Thesis (3)
Preparation of an honors thesis under the direction of a member of the Department of Geography and Planning. The student must submit a formal proposal describing the project, and the final thesis must be approved by both the adviser and the Honor’s Committee. Prerequisite(s): admission to the honors program.