What is Geography?
Geography is the science of place and space. Geographers study the relationships among geographic places, natural systems, society, cultural activities, and the interdependence of all these over space.
There are two main branches of geography: human geography and physical geography. Human geography is concerned with the spatial aspects of human existence - how people and their activities are distributed over space, how people use and perceive space, and how people interact with the physical environment. Physical geographers study the physical elements and spatial processes that make up and shape the environment, including energy, air, water, weather, climate, landforms, soils, animals, plants, etc. Many aspects of geography are studied and analyzed using a variety of spatial technologies such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and remotely-sensed imagery. These tools are becoming more and more commonplace throughout society.
Geographers also study the linkages between human activity and natural systems. Geographers were, in fact, among the first scientists to sound the alarm that human-induced changes to the environment were beginning to threaten the balance of life itself. Geographers today are active in the study of diverse topics, such as global warming, desertification, deforestation, loss of biodiversity, groundwater pollution, flooding, origin and diffusion of disease, urban and regional planning, global trade, social problems (e.g. poverty, ethnic conflict), and many more.
The CRC Geography program offers courses that satisfy lower division General Education requirements in both the physical and social sciences. In addition, the program offers two associate’s degrees: an A.S. degree in Geography and an A.S. degree in Environmental Studies and Sustainability. Both degrees provide students with a solid foundation in these disciplines and prepare students to complete upper-division coursework leading to the baccalaureate degree. Students may also earn a certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Students planning to transfer to a four-year school with a major in Geography or Environmental Studies should consult the lower division requirements at the university they plan to attend.
Career Opportunities
Natural Resource Management, Environmental Conservation, International Development, Urban and Regional Planning, Tourism, Education (K-12 through University), Cartographer, Climatologist, Park Ranger, Transportation Specialist, Real Estate Analyst, International Business, Marketing Analyst, Land Surveyor, Research Scientist, Remote Sensing Specialist, Demographer, GIS Analyst
Some Career Opportunities may require more than two years of college study.
Highlights
- Comprehensive course offerings as well as specialized training in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Program's students have won top awards at state, regional and national levels since 1999
- Field study courses to Yosemite, Pt. Reyes, Monterey/Big Sur, Tahoe, and the Eastern Sierra
- Internships available with regional governmental agencies
- Three courses fulfill the CRC and CSU multicultural requirement
- Day, evening, and online sections