Geography

Geography is the study of connection, discovery, and action. More than just maps, geography is a broad, high-tech spatial science that explores how physical environments and human cultures continuously shape one another. In our program, you will investigate the forces behind weather extremes, landform evolution, and biological habitats alongside the vital human systems—economics, urban planning, public health, and cultural dynamics—that define our everyday world. Combining interactive lectures with field study and advanced cartographic and digital map-making tools, we empower you to analyze critical real-world spatial data, navigate modern environmental and societal challenges, and transform your curiosity about the world into a career.

Associate in Arts for Transfer Degree: Geography

Program Requirements: Units Required: 19 Units:

GEOGRPH-101 Physical Geography with Lab 4.0
GEOGRPH-102 Human Geography 3.0

Plus six units from the following:

GEOGRPH-103 Weather and Climate 3.0
GEOGRPH-104 World Regional Geography 3.0
GEOGRPH-105 California Geography 3.0
GEOGRPH-110 Maps and Spatial Reasoning 3.0
GEOGRPH-200 Geography of Disney's Thematic Landscapes
GIS-101 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems 3.0

Plus six units from the following:

ANTHRO-103 Cultural Anthropology 3.0 OR ANTHRO-103H
Cultural Anthropology – Honors 3.0
GEOLOGY-100 Physical Geology 3.0

GEOGRPH100: Physical Geography
Explores 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). Field trips may be required.
Units: 3.00
CSU-GE: B1
IGETC: 5A

GEOGRPH101: Physical Geography with Lab

Explores 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). The laboratory portion of this course is designed to provide supplemental exercises in topics covered in the lecture. Lab experience will include map analysis and interpretation, weather prognostication, landform processes and evolution, tectonics, biogeography, and habitat analysis.

Units: 4.00

CSU-GE: B1 or B3

IGETC: 5A or 5C

GEOGRPH102: Human Geography

Introduces the study of a diverse human population, their cultural origins, diffusion and contemporary spatial distribution. Topics include an overview of demography, language, religion, folk and pop culture, urbanization and gentrification, political units, economic systems, and human-environment interactions. Field trips may be required.

Units: 3.00

CSU-GE: D

IGETC: 4

GEOGRPH103: Weather & Climate

Introduces the mechanics and processes of the Earth’s atmosphere. Topics include atmospheric structure and composition, solar radiation and energy balances, seasonal changes, atmospheric moisture, clouds and fog, air pressure, winds, air masses and fronts, cyclones, weather forecasting, climate and climate change. Field tips may be required.

Units: 3.00

CSU-GE: B1

IGETC: 5A

GEOGRPH104: World Regional Geography

Explores the world's culture regions and nations as interpreted by geographers, including physical, cultural, and economic features. Emphasis on spatial and historical influences on population growth, transportation networks, and natural environments. Identification and importance of the significant features of regions. Field trips may be required.

Units: 3.00

CSU-GE: D

IGETC: 4

GEOGRPH105: California Geography

Explores California’s physical features, such as its mountains, valleys, deserts, and coastline, and the ways in which these features and regions have influenced the human and physical landscape. Topics include California's weather & climate, natural resources, native vegetation & flora, cultural landscapes, ethnic diversity, agricultural & urban regions, water resources, and California’s economy. Field trips may be required

Units: 3.00

CSU-GE: D or B1

IGETC: 4 or 5A

GEOGRPH 110: Maps & Spatial Reasoning

Develops spatial reasoning skills through a survey of maps, spatial science concepts, and geospatial technologies. Topics include geospatial information, navigation, map projections, symbolization, misuse of maps, and analysis of spatial data.
Units: 3.00
Transferable to both UC and CSU

GEOGRPH200: Geography of Disney's Thematic Landscapes (Fall 2027)

Introduces the core principles of geography and how they are observed and applied to Disney theming at parks and resorts. Concepts such as Earth's geomorphic processes, landforms, composition, and internal structure will be covered, along with an emphasis on topics including minerals, rocks, soils, geologic time, and cultural aspects. This course will highlight the direct application and creative interpretation of geography in Disney's thematic landscapes and enhance the cultural experiences found throughout these iconic destinations. Field trips may be required.

Units: 3.00

CSU-GE: 5A

IGETC: 4