GEOGRAPHY

CONTACT US

Theresa Watson
Instructor, Geography / GIST
watsont@sanjuancollege.edu
Phone: 505-566-3275

DEGREES and CERTIFICATES

  • Geography Associate of Science Degree
  • Geographic Information Science (GIS) One-year Certificate

GEOGRAPHY

Geographers study the earth, the environment, people and other living organisms, and how they affect one another.  They analyze how the physical world impacts human culture, and how human activities
influence the natural environment. They study the spatial relationships of physical features of the earth, the distribution of human activities, and how these change through time.

Geography is an interdisciplinary bridge between the physical and human worlds. Geographers examine changing patterns of land use related to natural and manmade environments. Geographers use state of the art mapping and analysis tools (Geographic Information Systems – GIS) to find and analyze these patterns, integrating multidisciplinary concepts to solve real-world problems.

The Department of Geography has designed programs to meet the needs of students who are seeking:

  • To develop a broad liberal arts education focusing on global literacy of humans and their environments;
  • Professional preparation in the field of Geographic Information Systems (GIS);
  • To become familiar with the contributions of geographic and spatial analysis needed to complement their overall academic preparation; and
  • Preparation for a career in business, government, teaching, or environmental studies.

A background in geography is of value to students majoring in the sciences, recreation, economics, business, computer science, social sciences, international or multicultural studies, and to those seeking teaching credentials.

GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (GIST)

Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIST) classes are now offered in Geography.
The classes are still at San Juan College, but can be found under the GEOG class codes.
For more information on the GIST program click here.

CLASSES

GEOG-111   Physical Geography   4 cr.
This class explores the distribution of features across the surface of the earth and analyzes the spatial and functional relationships that shape the earth, including the earth's movements, cycles, atmosphere, oceans, weather and climate, landform processes, vegetation dynamics and distribution, soil development and classification, and ecosystems. A lab is required.

GEOG-112   World Regional Geography   3 cr.
This course introduces students to the geographic regions of the world while emphasizing their physical features, resources, economies, culture, and politics. This class will also cover trends in population, development and environment occurring around the world, as well as methods and concepts of global and regional processes.

GEOG-115   Map Use, Interpretation and Design   4 cr.
The basic principles, functions, origins, use, interpretation, and cartographic design of maps will be covered.

GEOG-118   Introduction to Mapping Technologies  4 cr.
This course is an introduction to the current primary mapping technologies. Students will develop a basic understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and remote sensing technologies. Emphasis will be placed on applications of these technologies to a variety of fields. A lab is required.

GEOG-120   GPS and Surveying Methods   4 cr.
This course provides an overview of global positioning systems. Topics include the theory, implementation, and operations of global positioning systems. Students will learn the fundamentals of acquiring GIS data using GPS technology, and understand surveying methods important for use in GIS.

GEOG-125   Weather and Climate   3 cr.
Introduces the atmospheric processes and geographic distribution of factors that interact to create weather systems and storms. Course will address issues such as the greenhouse effect, severe weather, global temperature patterns and air pollution, and the implications of climate change. Exercises will include the access and use of live weather data from NOAA, NWS, AMS, and other sources.

GEOG-130   Natural Hazards   3 cr.
This course focuses on the natural hazards that exist around the globe and impact humans in loss of life and property in seemingly unpredictable events. Emphasis will be on the cause and effect, patterns, emergency response and mitigation of natural hazards in relation to human settlement and development.

GEOG-135   Energy and Natural Resources Geography   3 cr.
An overview of technical, historical, economic, social, and environmental aspects of energy systems, including fossil fuels, nuclear, solar, wind, biomass, and energy end use efficiency and conservation. The class will also cover how energy and natural resources (agriculture, food supplies, forest products, mining, etc.) are developed and their effects on the environment, economy, public heath, national security, transportation, and cultural development at local and global scales.

GEOG-140   Geography of the Four Corners   3 cr.
Focus on the geography of the Four Corners region of the southwestern United States. The course provides an overview of climate, geology, topography, soils, vegetation, ecosystems, cultural and historical geography of the region. Current environmental, social, economic, and political issues will be discussed. Field trips are required and may include an overnight trip.

GEOG-145   Human Geography   3 cr.
Explores the complex relationships between humans and their environments. Examines such fields as population distribution and characteristics, health and nutrition, culture in its various manifestations, economic activity, political entities, and settlement. Prerequisite: APRD 82 or RDNG 113. Corequisite: ENGL 111; MATH 095. Semester offered: - Fall.

GEOG-151   GIS I   4 cr.
This course covers the fundamentals of Geographic Information Science (GIS) theory and application. Emphasis will be placed on understanding how geographic features are represented, captured, and stored as digital data, and how that data may be analyzed and mapped using state-of-the-art GIS tools. Lab projects will develop hands-on expertise with industry standard software.  Prerequisite: GEOG 111, COSC 125.

GEOG-230   Geographic Image Analysis   4 cr.
This course will cover the foundations of remote sensing, aerial photo interpretation, the use of imagery in GIS, and 3D visualization through lecture and lab. Students will engage in specific applications such as image classification and multi-spectral analysis to solve real world urban and environmental problems. Prerequisite: GEOG 151, GEOG 115.

GEOG-251   GIS II   4 cr.
This course builds on the knowledge and skills developed in GIS I. This course provides more detailed instruction on the theories and procedures associated with the implementation of GIS projects, their management, and their completion. Emphasisis on in-depth spatial analysis and applications of GIS. Hands-on expertise will be further developed. Prerequisite: GEOG 151, GEOG 115.