GEOG 101 is a spatial study of the Earth’s dynamic physical systems and processes. Topics include Earth-sun geometry, weather, climate, water, landforms, soil, and the biosphere. Emphasis is on the interrelationships among environmental and human systems and processes and their resulting patterns and distributions. Tools of geographic inquiry are also briefly covered; they may include: maps, remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Global Positioning Systems (GPS).

GEOG 102 is a systematic study of the cultural variables of humankind: population, religion, language, economic activities, settlements. Emphasis upon selected cultural problems of humankind’s occupance.

GEOG 103 is a survey of the world’s major cultural and physical regions with emphasis on those elements that are important to an understanding of contemporary global issues and concerns.

GEOG 106 is a description and analysis of humanity’s impact on the natural environment over time. Natural earth systems and natural climatic change are studied in the contest of geologic time, followed by systematic analyses of human impact on the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere. Emphasis is placed on the human activities that cause environmental change, as well as potential solutions and pathways to sustainability.

GEOG 107 is an introduction to the atmosphere with an emphasis on its properties and physical processes. The course focuses on the atmosphere’s composition and structure, incoming solar radiation and energy balance, temperature, seasonal changes, atmospheric moisture, clouds and fog, precipitation, air pressure, winds, air masses and fronts, tornadoes, hurricanes, weather forecasting, El Nińo, climate and climate change.

GEOG 110 takes a thematic approach to explore California’s issues, processes and topics relevant to geography including climate, landforms, natural vegetation, water resources, cultural landscape, ethnic diversity, urban and agricultural regions, and the economy. This course explores the physical and human landscapes that have evolved as a result of the human-environment interface.

GEOG 111 is the laboratory course for Physical Geography. Laboratory exercises include the observation and interpretation of weather data, statistical analysis of climate data, development of cartographic techniques, map interpretation, aerial photography interpretation, and landform description and analysis. Local field trips are required.

GEOG 155 is an introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) science including geographic data gathering, analysis, and display through digital methods. GIS is used to explore spatial questions about environmental and social issues. The laboratory component demonstrates these principles through hands-on experience with map making using microcomputers running ArcGIS and other GIS software.

GEOG 160 is a field-based lecture course that explores the physical and cultural geography of a selected region or regions. Physical and cultural processes, characteristics and landscapes are observed, documented and analyzed. Specific content varies by geographic region, but includes both physical and cultural components.

GEOG 170 is an introduction to the interdisciplinary fi eld of Global Studies, including the history of globalization, and economic, political, social, cultural and ecological developments related to the process of globalization. Students evaluate topics such as NGOs, the global economy, and transnational population trends. Note: This course is cross-listed with ECON 170 and POL S 170. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have completed ECON 170 or POL S 170.

GEOG 171 introduces students to the origins, current status, and future trends of major transnational issues confronting the global community. Topics can include population trends, economic development and inequality, basic human needs (for food, water health care), human rights, international conflict and security concerns, and environmental problems. The course also focuses on global governance, including the study of collective global responsibilities. Note: This course is cross-listed with POL S 171 and SOC 171. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have completed POL S 171 or SOC 171.