Geography Student

Handbook
CSUS Geography, Fall 2005
Geography Student Handbook
contents
ONE
WELCOME TO GEOGRAPHY Part
Welcome Geography Students 1
Reception 2
Keeping the Department Informed 2
Faculty Profiles and Contact Information 3
Maps 4
Campus 4
Bizzini Hall (Classroom Building) 2nd Floor 5
GIS Lab 6
Bio-Ag 7

TWO
WHAT IS GEOGRAPHY? 8
Definitions 8
Areas of Geographic Study 9
General Readings in Geography and Teaching 10

THREE
YOUR PROGRAM 11
Advising 11
Registration 12
Geography Courses (from Catalog) 13
BA Geography Worksheet (regular tract) 14
BA Geography with Applied Concentration Worksheet 15
Geography Minor Worksheet 16
Liberal Studies with Geography Concentration Worksheet 17
Social Science with Geography Concentration Worksheet 17
General Education Worksheet 18
Plagerism and Academic Dishonesty 19
Readings – Coping with Classes 20
Internships 21

FOUR
GEOGRAPHY’S FACILITIES 22
Laboratories 22
The Field 22
GIS Lab 23
Bio-Ag 23
The Bridge 24
Study Abroad 25
Other Facilities 26

FIVE
LIFE AFTER CSUS 27
Occupations 27
Graduate School 28
Letter of Reference 29
 1
one - welcome to geography

“Of all the disciplines, it is geography that has captured

the vision of the earth as a whole.”

Kenneth Boulding

WELCOME GEOGRAPHY STUDENTS!

This student handbook provides a way for you to track your

degree progress and helps you navigate a path, not only to
complete your degree, but to seek a profession in geography or
attend graduate school. It serves as a convenient source for
general information about the discipline of geography,
department and campus resources, and who to contact with
various questions.

This handbook does not replace the personal one-to-one contact between yourself and
your advisor. We require that you meet with your advisor at the end of every semester before you
register for next semester’s courses. If you have specific questions about courses or your degree
progress, ask your advisor. When you declare geography as your degree, you are automatically
assigned an advisor. You may, at any time, request one of the other professors to be your advisor. It
is your decision. Simply tell the department secretary who you want to advise you. The change will
be made.

The department secretary, RayDelle Kistler, is a great source for advice and answers to general
questions. She also keeps the faculty appointment books, so call her at 667-3127 or, better yet, go to
C-215 (the department office) and sign up yourself if you need to make an appointment with a faculty
member. You may also contact faculty by e-mail, phone or leave them a note in their mail box
(located in C-215).

Most importantly, we want you to enjoy your academic experiences.

Dr. Michael Schmandt

Associate Professor and Chair of Anthropology and Geography
[email protected]
Telephone (209) 667-3557
Related --------------

Department Office 2
Faculty Profiles and Contact Information 3
Advising 11
2
DEPARTMENT OFFICE

Our office is located in Room C-215 in the Classroom Building (Bizzini Hall). It is usually open
between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (although summer hours are different).
Office staff will do their best to help with any inquiries. They can aid you with:

• making initial inquiries

• leaving written messages for faculty
• handing in course work outside of class time
• returning past coursework held for one semester
• furnishing proper forms including (but not limited to) add/drop, withdrawal, refunds,
name/address/contact change, individual study, change of degree objective, and
graduation.
• scheduling self-guided field trips and general questions
• changing your major or concentration
• scheduling appointments with advisor or other
faculty
• answering general questions
• arranging times for make-up exams

Ms RayDelle Kistler, Department Secretary

RKistler@ csustan.edu
Telephone (209) 667-3127

KEEPING THE DEPARTMENT INFORMED

Keeping accurate records on all our students is not an easy task. We need up-to-date information on
your address, telephone numbers, e-mail addresses, and name changes. If any of your contact
information has changed recently, please submit a Notice of Name/Address/Contact Change form to
the department Secretary.

CONTACTING GEOGRAPHY
Our address is:
Department of Anthropology and Geography
California State University, Stanislaus
Turlock, CA 95382
Telephone: (209) 667-3127
Fax: (209) 667-3324
Web site address: http://www.csustan.edu/geography/geohome.htm
 3
FACULTY PROFILES AND CONTACT INFORMATION

Our department houses very active geographers who are involved in successful efforts of research,
scholarship, creative activities, community service, and leadership in the discipline. The following list
outlines the degrees, specializations, telephone numbers, e-mail addresses, and office location for
each of our faculty members:

Chuck Bowen, (1998) Lecturer of Geography; B.S. 1964, University of Georgia; M.A. 1967,
University of Georgia; Physical, Climatology, Environmental, Urban; 209.667.3127; C-218.

Ida Bowers, Ph.D., (1972) Professor of Geography; B.S. 1961, Central

Michigan University; M.A. 1965, University of Hawaii; Ph.D. 1973,
University of Hawaii; Environmental, Physical, Agriculture/Permaculture, Southeast
Asia; 209.667.3221; [email protected], C-215e.

Richard Eigenheer, Ph.D. (2000) Lecturer; B.A. 1961, UC Berkeley; M.A. 1966, CSU
Sacramento; Ph.D. 1976, UC Davis; Cultural, Historical, North America, California, Tourism;
209.667.3127; [email protected]; C-218

Jennifer Helzer, Ph.D., (2001) Assistant Professor of Geography; B.A. 1986, University
of California, Santa Barbara; M.A. 1993, California State University, Chico; Ph.D.
1998, University of Texas, Austin; Cultural, Historical, Ethnic, North America;
209.667.3010; [email protected]; C-237b.

Eric Karlstrom, Ph.D., (1989), Professor of Geography and Honors Program; B.S. 1971,
Northern Arizona University; M.A. 1977, University of Wyoming; Ph.D. 1981, University of
Calgary, Canada: Physical, Environmental, Geomorphology, Soils, Quaternary Studies, Geo-
archaeology; 209.667.3479; [email protected]; C-216a.

Michael Schmandt, Ph.D., (1994), Associate Professor of Geography; B.A. 1987,

California State University, Fresno; M.A. 1991, Arizona State University; Ph.D. 1995,
Arizona State University: Cultural, Urban, Regional, GIS, Field Methods;
209.667.3557; [email protected]; C-217.
4
GENERAL MAP OF CAMPUS
 5
BIZZINI HALL (CLASSROOM BLDG) 2ND FLOOR MAP
6
GIS LAB MAP (VASCHE LIBRARY BLDG)
 7
BIO-AG MAP
 8
two – what is geography?

“Geography is the study of earth as the home of people.”

Yi-Fu Tuan

DEFINITIONS

Geography studies the world in which we live and on which we depend; it is a subject that is both
exciting and highly relevant. Peoples, environments, regions, and landscapes interweave, and
geographic analysis helps us understand them. Geography’s unique combination of knowledge and
analytical techniques, produce a clear understanding of the interaction between the environment and
people including human impacts on the environment and its effects on us.

As an integrative discipline, drawing on data and knowledge common to many physical sciences, social
sciences, and humanities, geography encourages students to develop a spatial perspective to explore
key issues facing society and the environment. Thus, geographers offer society, government, and
academia a perspective that emphasizes the character of place, patterns and processes, and locational
analysis. We contribute to a better understanding of today’s world and improve projections for a
future one (Graf, Will, 1999, “Not Clueless, Just Skill-less” Association of American Geographers
Newsletter, 34:1, p 1).

If you like to travel, use and read maps, learn about peoples and places, and collect and analyze data;
chances are you’re a geographer at heart. If you are interested in teaching, exploring new
landscapes, analyzing the relationships between people and their environment, using and applying
new computer technologies, creating better places, or solving environmental problems, then
geography is an ideal major.

Geography graduates are in demand. As the Association of American Geographer’s pamphlet on

Careers in Geography states, “more geographers than ever before are employed in exciting jobs, using
skills in cultural, regional, and physical geography as well as modern technologies that have
revolutionized the workplace.”

Related --------------

Areas of Geographic Study 9

General Readings in Geography and Teaching 10
Occupations 27
9
AREAS OF GEOGRAPHIC STUDY

The discipline of geography can be divided into subfields. These include human geography, which
studies the spatial aspects of human settlement, cultures and human uses of the Earth's
environments; physical geography, which studies spatial patterns, processes, and interrelationships in
the natural environment; regional geography, which involves the study of human and physical
geography of defined world regions; and methodology, which employs principles, techniques and tools
of the discipline such as maps, aerial photographs, computer software, satellite imagery, and field
instruments.

The Association of American Geographers lists a number of specialty groups (most of which are
subfields) that their member geographers belong to. There are more subfields than the following list
includes (and there are specializations within many of the following subfields. For example, the
subfield of geomorphology can be broken into many specializations including fluvial geomorphology,
glacial geomorphology, soils, and quaternary studies), but it provides a peek into geography’s breadth.

Africa Hazards
Applied Geography Historical Geography
Asian Geography History of Geography
Bible Human Dimensions of Global Change
Biogeography Indigenous Peoples
Canadian Studies Latin American
Cartography Medical Geography
China Microcomputers
Climate Middle East
Coastal and Marine Military Geography
Communication Geography Mountain Geography
Community College Political Geography
Cryosphere Population
Cultural and Political Ecology Qualitative Research
Cultural Geography Recreation, Tourism, and Sport
Developing Areas Regional Development and Planning
Disability Remote Sensing
Economic Geography Retired Geographers
Energy and Environment Rural Geography
Environmental Perception and Behavioral Geog Russian, Central Asian, and East European
Ethics, Justice, and Human Rights Sexuality and Space
Ethnic Geography Socialist Geography
European Spatial Analysis and Modeling
Geographic Information Science and Systems Transportation Geography
Geographic Perspectives on Women Urban Geography
Geography Education Water Resources
Geography of Religions and Belief Systems Wine
Geomorphology Worldwide Web
Graduate Student

Related --------------

General Readings in Geography and Teaching 10

 10
GENERAL READINGS IN GEOGRAPHY AND TEACHING

The following are brief readings that cover the importance and relevance of geography. Ask your
advisor for additional general readings or for focused reading materials on a specific subfield.

“Rediscovering the Importance of Geography” by Alec Murphy.

(Murphy, A. 1998. Rediscovering the Importance of Geography. Chronicle of Higher
Education, October 30, 1998: 33.)

“Why Study Geography?” by Heather Viles and Alisdair Rogers.

(Rogers, A and H. Viles. 2002. The Student's Companion to Geography. Pages 3-5.
London: Blackwell.)

“Thinking like a Geographer” by Peter Gould.

(Gould, P. 1999. Becoming a Geographer. Pages 220-234. Syracuse University Press.)

Related --------------

Definitions 8
PUBLISHED IN THE OCTOBER 30, 1998

CHRONICLE OF HIGHER EDUCATION

Rediscovering the Importance of Geography

As Americans struggle to understand their place in a world characterized by instant global

communications, shifting geopolitical relationships, and growing evidence of environmental
change, it is not surprising that the venerable discipline of geography is experiencing a
renaissance in the United States. More elementary and secondary schools now require courses in
geography, and the College Board is adding the subject to its Advanced Placement program. In
higher education, students are enrolling in geography courses in unprecedented numbers.
Between 1985-86 and 1994-95, the number of bachelor's degrees awarded in geography increased
from 3,056 to 4,295, and graduate enrollment grew by more than 30 percent. Not coincidentally,
more businesses are looking for employees with expertise in geographical analysis, to help them
analyze possible new markets or environmental issues.
In light of these developments, institutions of higher education cannot afford simply to
ignore geography, as some of them have, or to assume that existing programs are adequate.
College administrators should recognize the academic and practical advantages of enhancing
their offerings in geography, particularly if they are going to meet the demand for more and better
geography instruction in primary and secondary schools. We cannot afford to know so little
about the other countries and peoples with which we now interact with such frequency, or the
dramatic environmental changes unfolding around us.
From the 1960s through the 1980s, most academics in the United States considered
geography a marginal discipline, although it remained a core subject in most other countries. The
familiar academic divide in the United States between the physical sciences on one hand, and the
social sciences and humanities on the other hand, left little room for a discipline concerned with
how things are organized and relate to one another on the surface of the earth--a concern that
necessarily bridges the physical and cultural spheres. Moreover, beginning in the 1960s, the U.S.
social-science agenda came to be dominated by pursuit of more-scientific explanations for human
phenomena, premised on assumptions about global similarities in human institutions,
motivations, and actions. As such, regional differences often were seen as idiosyncrasies of
declining significance--or at best as simple backdrops to human affairs.
Although academic administrators and scholars in other disciplines might marginalize
geography, they could not kill it, for any attempt to make sense of the world must be premised on
some understanding of the changing human and physical patterns that shape its evolution--be
they shifting vegetation zones or expanding economic contacts across international boundaries.
Hence, some U.S. colleges and universities continued to teach geography, and the discipline was
often in the background of many policy issues--for example, the need to assess the risks
associated with foreign investment in different parts of the world. By the late 1980s, Americans'
general ignorance of geography had become too widespread to ignore. Newspapers regularly
published reports of surveys demonstrating that many Americans could not identify major
countries or oceans on a map. The real problem, of course, was not the inability to answer simple
questions that might be asked on Jeopardy!; instead, it was what that inability demonstrated
about our collective understanding of the globe.
Geography's renaissance in the United States is due to the growing recognition that
physical and human processes such as soil erosion and ethnic unrest are inextricably tied to their
geographical context. To understand modern Iraq, it is not enough to know who is in power and
how the political system functions. We also need to know something about the country's ethnic
groups and their settlement patterns; the different physical environments and resources within the
country; and its ties to surrounding countries and trading partners. These matters are sometimes
addressed by practitioners of other disciplines, of course, but they are rarely central to the
analysis. Instead, generalizations are often made at the level of the state, and little attention is
given to spatial patterns and practices that play out on local levels or across international
boundaries. Such preoccupations help to explain why many scholars were caught off guard by
the explosion of ethnic unrest in Eastern Europe following the fall of the Iron Curtain.
Similarly, comprehending the dynamics of El Niño requires more than knowledge of the
behavior of ocean and air currents; it is also important to understand how those currents are
situated with respect to land masses and how they relate to other climatic patterns, some of which
have been altered by the burning of fossil fuels and other human activities. And any attempt to
understand the nature and extent of humans' impact on the environment requires consideration of
the relationship between human and physical contributions to environmental change. The
factories and cars in a city produce smog, but surrounding mountains may trap it, increasing air
pollution dramatically. Today, academics in fields ranging from history to economics to
conservation biology have turned to geographers for help with some of their concerns. Paul
Krugman, the noted economist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, for example, has
turned conventional wisdom in economics on its head by pointing to the role of historically
rooted regional inequalities in the structuring of international trade.
Today geographers work on issues ranging from climate change to ethnic conflict to
urban sprawl. What unites their work is their focus on the changing organization and character of
the earth's surface. Geographers examine changing patterns of vegetation to study global
warming; they analyze where different ethnic groups live in Bosnia to help understand the pros
and cons of different administrative solutions to the civil war there; they map AIDS cases in
Africa to learn how to reduce the spread of the disease.
Geography is reclaiming attention because it addresses such questions in their relevant
spatial and environmental contexts. A growing number of scholars in other disciplines are
realizing that it is a mistake to treat all places as if they were essentially the same (think of the
assumptions in most economic models), or to undertake research on the environment that does
not include consideration of the relationships between human and physical processes in particular
regions. Still, the challenges to the discipline are great. Only a small number of primary- and
secondary-school teachers have enough training in geography to offer students an exciting
introduction to the subject. At the college level, many geography departments are small; they are
absent altogether at some high-profile universities.
Perhaps the greatest challenge is to overcome the public's view of geography as a simple
exercise in place-name recognition. Much of geography's power lies in the insights it sheds on
the nature and meaning of the evolving spatial arrangements and landscapes that make up the
world in which we live. The importance of these insights should not be underestimated at a time
of changing political boundaries, accelerated human alteration of the environment, and rapidly
shifting patterns of human interaction.

Alexander B. Murphy is a professor and head of the geography department at the University of
Oregon and a vice-president of the America Geographical Society.
 11
three – your program

"As a young man, my fondest dream was to become a geographer. However, while
working in the customs office I thought deeply about the matter and concluded that
it was far too difficult a subject. With some reluctance, I then turned to physics as a
substitute."

Albert Einstein

ADVISING

Geography students are assigned an advisor as soon as the department receives a copy of your
transcripts. You may change your advisor at any time. Academic Advising is required each semester
and takes place during approximately the last month of the semester. Make appointments early to
protect your priority registration. To schedule an appointment, stop by C-215 and sign up in the
appointment book, or contact RayDelle Kistler at (209) 667-3127, [email protected]. After you
meet with your advisor, the academic hold will be lifted, and you may register for next semester's
courses.

Bring along this binder when you meet with your advisor. With it, you can track your progress
through your academic career in geography.

Related --------------

Welcome Geography Students 1

Department Office 2
Faculty Profiles and Contact Information 3
Registration and Requirements 12
12
REGISTRATION AND REQUIREMENTS [Need to make a few modifications on this page]

Once you have met with your advisor and your academic hold has been lifted, you may register for
classes. Here are several things to consider while registering for courses.

• Freshmen need to complete 1000-2000 level general education and prerequisite courses.
Transfer students need to complete the lower division GE and prerequisite courses.

• Geography’s prerequisites: Geography students must take GEOG 2010 and GEOG 2020 OR
GEOG 2400 OR GEOG 2410 for a total of 6 units of prerequisites. Three units will cross count
for D-2b of GE. GEOG 2020 will satisfy area (G) GE multicultural requirement.

• Remedial math: Freshmen students entering CSUS who have not qualified for GE math must
take the appropriate pre-baccalaureate course depending on their placement score. All
remedial coursework must be completed within the first year. Geography students in
remedial math will complete either MATH 0103 & 0106 OR only MATH 0106. MATH 0106 will
prepare you for any GE math course. After you complete MATH 0106, take a GE math course
immediately to improve your chances for success.

• Remedial English: Freshmen students entering CSUS who have not qualified for GE English
must take the appropriate pre-baccalaureate course depending on their score. All remedial
U

coursework must be completed within the first year. Remedial English students will complete
U

either (ENGL 0100 & 0111 OR ENGL 0111). ENGL 0111 will prepare you for ENGL 1001 OR
1002. After you complete ENGL 0111, take ENGL 1001 OR 1002 immediately to improve your
chances for success. ENGL 1001 OR 1002 will satisfy GE A-2. After completing A-2
requirement, you can choose either ENGL 2000 OR PHIL 2000 to satisfy GE A-3.

• Baccalaureate degree requirements: All students need a minimum of 120 semester units of
which 40 must be upper division. Of these degree units, 30 semester units must be
completed at CSUS of which 24 need to be upper division, 12 need to be in the major and 9
need to be GE. All college coursework must be completed with a minimum grade point
average of 2.0 (C) or better. Entering students with less than 15 units must complete three
winter terms. Those entering with 15–74 units must complete two. Those entering with 75+
units must complete one winter term.

• Geography majors must complete 51 units of upper and lower division GE, 6 units of
prerequisites (which up to 6 units can cross count with GE) and 36 units in the major, for a
total of 90 units. The remaining 30 units needed to complete your BA degree, can be earned
by taking additional geography courses, other electives, or declaring a minor in a related field.

• Upper division courses: Students with junior standing (60 semester units completed) are
qualified to take most 3000-4000 level courses. Some courses are offered every semester,
but some courses are offered just once an academic year or even once over two academic
years. Please consult with your major advisor for information regarding course selection and
sequencing.

Continued next page --------------

• Upper division general education requirements: All students must complete 9 units of upper
division GE coursework: 3 units from natural science and math, 3 units from humanities, and
3 units from social, economic, and political institutions and human behavior. These courses
must be taken no earlier than the term in which upper-division status (completion of 60
semester units) is attained. Students MAY NOT cross-count upper division GE with courses
offered in their major (or in an area of concentration within a major). Students MAY cross
count upper division GE with a minor, but consult with your minor advisor for approval. As an
alternative, students may complete all 9 units of upper division GE coursework by enrolling in
the Summit Program (choose any of the clusters).

• WPST (writing proficiency screening test): All students are required to pass the WPST exam
and receive a C- or better grade in a WP course. After completing the critical inquiry course
in English, Philosophy, or Communication Studies (A-3), sign up to take the WPST exam. If
you score 7 or higher, you qualify to take a WP course. The geography department offers one
WP course, GEOG 4710, which meets the writing proficiency requirement for graduation and
satisfies a major requirement, but a student may take a WP course from outside the major.

• Geography major requirements: The Geography major offers two options: the (a) General
Geography track and (b) an Applied Geography concentration. These two tracks are
organized differently and have different goals and course emphases as follows:

A) The General Geography major is made up of upper division courses including 10 units
of human geography, 6 units of physical geography, 6 units of regional geography, 6
units of methodology, and 8 units of electives for a total of 36 units.
B) The Applied Geography concentration is designed to provide geography courses that
have practical applications to careers in computer mapping, city planning, public
administration, and resource management. The Applied Geography concentration
requires the same lower division prerequisites but has a core of upper division
methodology courses. Required courses include GEOG 3700, GEOG 3751, GEOG
4301, and GEOG 4710. Other requirements include upper division courses including
6 units of other methodologies, 6 units of physical geography, 6 units of human
geography, 3 units of regional geography, and 3 units of electives. This
concentration also comprises 36 units.

• Non-Geography majors can obtain a minor in geography by completing 18 units as approved

by a minor advisor. The Geography minor curriculum is handled primarily through
advisement. It requires 18 units, at least 15 of which must be upper-division. Our curriculum
structure requires the student to take at least one course from human geography, physical
geography, and regional geography.

Related --------------

Geography courses 13
BA geography worksheet (regular tract) 14
BA geography applied worksheet 15
Geography minor worksheet 16
General education curriculum 18
13
GEOGRAPHY COURSE DESCRIPTIONS (FROM CATALOGUE)

Lower Division

GEOG 2010 Introduction to Physical Geography (3 units). (Formerly Introduction to Natural

Environment) Analysis of the distribution and character of major aspects of the natural environment,
including weather, climate, landforms, soils, vegetation, and their significance and meaning to
humans; humankind’s impact on and use of these elements. Satisfies G.E. area D2. (CAN GEOG 2)
(Fall, Spring)

GEOG 2020 Introduction to Cultural Geography (3 units). A broad based geographical survey
of major components of human culture, including forms of livelihood, religion, and language. An
introduction to themes in the study of folk culture, popular culture, and settlement patterns. Satisfies
G.E. areas D2 and G. (CAN GEOG 4)

GEOG 2400 World Regional Geography I: Europe and Asia (3 units).

(Formerly World Regional Geography) A regional analysis of Europe and Asia examining the spatial
patterns of physical and human phenomena. Includes consideration of physical, cultural, historical,
economic, and demographic characteristics. Satisfies G.E. area D2.

GEOG 2410 World Regional Geography II: Africa, Australia, and Latin America (3 units).
A regional analysis of Africa, Australia, and Latin America, examining the spatial patterns of physical
and human phenomena. Includes consideration of physical, cultural, historical, economic, and
demographic characteristics. Satisfies G.E. area D2.

Upper Division

GEOG 3010 Cultural Geography (3 units).

Study of wide ranging cultural topics including geopolitics, religion, ethnicity, folk and popular culture,
population and migration, agriculture and cities. Examines cultural geographical processes of diffusion,
adaptation, representation, and place. Satisfies G.E. area G. Prerequisite: Junior standing. (Fall)

GEOG 3020 Human Ecology (3 units).

Study of environmental problems arising from human use of the Earth’s resources. Topics include
population dynamics, natural resource management, land use, coastal preservation, energy resources,
and humankind’s relationship to nature. Satisfies G.E. area F3. (Fall, Spring)

GEOG 3100 Climatology (3 units).

The elements and controls of weather and climate; analysis of climatic regions of the world.
prerequisite: GEOG 2010 or consent of instructor.

GEOG 3300 Geography of Economic Activities (3 units).

Study of world economic activity from a geographic point of view; systematic analysis of agricultural,
mining, and manufacturing patterns in the various regions of the world in relation to their natural and
cultural settings. Considers locational determinants of human economic activities. Prerequisite:
Junior standing or consent of instructor. (Normally offered alternate years)
GEOG 3330 Ethnic Geography (3 units)
Examines ethnic patterns, processes, identity, and ethnic heritage in North America. Patterns and
processes of migration, settlement, and evolving ethnic landscapes in the Central Valley region are
emphasized. Satisfies G.E. area G.

GEOG 3340 California Cultures and Environments (3 units).

Examines the natural, economic, political, and cultural processes that shape California's diverse
physical and human environments. Topics include physiography, climate, hydrogeography, historic
and contemporary settlement, and socio-economic issues. Satisfies G.E. area F3. (Fall)

GEOG 3350 Geography of the Great Central Valley (3 units).

Focuses on the character and complexity of the Great Central Valley by analyzing its physical
environment, its people, and their relationship with both the land they occupy and the world beyond.
Designed specifically for future teachers. (LIBS Integrative: Social Inquiry)

GEOG 3510 Geography of North America (3 units).

Surveys the natural and human factors responsible for present patterns of settlement, land use, and
cultural systems in the U.S. and Canada. Topics include physiography, climate, settlement, religion,
politics, economics, and cities. Prerequisite: Junior standing or consent of instructor. (Spring)

GEOG 3550 Geography of Europe (3 units).

The regional geography of Europe, with emphasis on present-day patterns. Prerequisite: Junior
standing or consent of instructor. (Fall)

GEOG 3580 Cultural Ecology of Southeast Asian Peoples (4 units).

(Replaces GEOG 3590) Examines the cultures of Southeast Asia and their life styles emphasizing
complex interrelations between cultures and their environments. Includes migration and acculturation
issues related to Indochinese refugees. Satisfies G.E. area G.

GEOG 3650 Selected Topics in Regional Geography (1–3 units).

Regional emphasis or topic varies each semester. Course may be repeated. Prerequisite: Junior
standing or consent of instructor.

GEOG 3700 Cartography (3 units).

Introduction to thematic cartography; fundamentals of cartographic portrayal including map design,
compilation, computer drafting, and reproduction. Corequisite: GEOG 3702. Prerequisite: Three units
of geography or consent of instructor. (Lecture, 2 hours; laboratory, 2 hours)

GEOG 3751 Introduction to Computer Applications in Geography (3 units).

Introduces computer systems and programs used in geographic research. Students will utilize systems
and programs through the context of a class-wide geographic research problem. Corequisite: GEOG
3752. (Lecture, 2 hours; laboratory, 2 hours)

GEOG 3930 Historical Geography of the Central Mother Lode (1 unit).

An individually-paced, two-day field trip which involves following a trip guide to sites in and around the
communities of Jamestown, Sonora, Columbia, Angels Camp, Murphys, Jackson, Volcano, Sutter
Creek, Amador City, and Fiddletown. At each site, students are directed to play recorded lectures on
topics ranging from early gold mines, mining methods, mining towns, local history, geography, and
geology. (Fall, Spring)

GEOG 3940 Geography of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta (1 unit).

An individually-paced, two-day field trip in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Videos and a detailed
route notebook will guide students in a study of Delta physical and cultural patterns.

GEOG 3950 Historical Geography of the Northern Mother Lode (1 unit).

An individually-paced, two-day field trip which involves following a trip guide to sites in and around the
communities of Folsom, Coloma, Grass Valley, Nevada City, and North Bloomfield. At each site,
students are directed to play recorded lectures on topics ranging from early gold mines, mining
methods, mining towns, local history, geography, and geology. (Fall, Spring)

GEOG 3960 The Yosemite Region (1 unit).

Individually paced field trip of Yosemite National Park and its setting. Topics covered include geology,
park history, environmental concerns, and park management. Course involves following an itinerary
using a guide book, maps, and taped discussions which are played in the field at designated locations.
Takes two to three days depending on student travel plans. Student arranges own departure/return
dates and own transportation.

GEOG 4000 Current Trends in Geography (1-2 units).

A symposium on geography featuring speakers on their special areas of research, including current
theories and research approaches in geography. Topics differ each term. May be repeated for no more
than 4 units of credit towards the major. Prerequisite: One lower-division geography class or
consent of instructor.

GEOG 4050 Restorative Human Ecology (3 units).

A study of current approaches to restore human environmental balance for sustainability and
environmental, community, and human health. Includes examination of the ethnoecology of several
indigenous cultures. Satisfies G.E. areas F3 and G. One of three cluster courses in the G.E. Summit
Program (Waking up to Nature: Ethics, Ecology, and Restoration Practices). Prerequisite: Consent of
Summit Program Coordinator.

GEOG 4070 Agricultural Geography (4 units).

(Formerly GEOG 3070) Examines a variety of agricultural systems in the world from an agro-ecological
approach. The natural resources and cultural factors which interact to shape and change agricultural
systems are studied in detail. Prerequisite: One course in physical geography.

GEOG 4120 Geomorphology (3 units).

(Formerly GEOG 3120) Study and interpretation of the Earth’s natural landforms; their distribution and
the processes acting on them; includes consideration of landform evolution under varied climatic
regimes. Prerequisite: GEOG 2010 or equivalent course in physical geography or consent of
instructor.

GEOG 4210 Geographic Problems in the Developing World (3 units).

Analysis of natural and cultural conditions pertinent to development. Consideration of the role of
geography in solution of development problems. Prerequisite: An introductory course in geography.

GEOG 4250 The Ethnoecology of Southeast Asia (4 units).

(Same as ANTH 4250) Drawing on case studies from Island and Mainland Southeast Asia (including
southern China), this course explores the long history of human-environmental interaction in the
region. Examines the causes of stress and instability in that interaction and the attempts to restore
viable relationships and systems. Prerequisite: Senior standing or consent of instructor.

GEOG 4301 Permaculture Applications in Diverse Environments (3 units).

(Formerly Geography and Environmental Planning) Examines permaculture approaches in humid
tropics/subtropics, arid and semi-arid regions, mountain/cold climates, and urban areas.
Prerequisite: Introductory physical geography course or consent of instructor.

GEOG 4350 Urban Geography (4 units).

Study of the spatial aspects of the city. Emphasis on the relationship of cities to each other and to the
countryside, as well as on the internal structure and spatial dynamics of urban centers. Special
consideration given to problems of the urban environment including urban sprawl, water and
recreational needs, and controls of land use. Field trips may be required. Prerequisite: Junior
standing or consent of instructor. (Spring)
GEOG 4610 Historical Geography of the United States (3 units).
A study of the evolution of cultural landscapes in the United States. Emphasis on initial and sequential
settlement patterns, routes of diffusion and migration, and use of resources in light of cultural
traditions. Comparative analysis of regional differences in material folk culture. Prerequisite: Junior
standing or consent of instructor.

GEOG 4650 Seminar in Geography (1–3 units).

Topic or emphasis varies each semester; course may be repeated. Prerequisite: Six units of
geography or consent of instructor.

GEOG 4700 Geographical Processes in Arid Landscapes: Death Valley (4 units).

Using field techniques in geography, the course analyzes geomorphic processes, climate
characteristics, vegetation patterns and adaptations, and human impacts in an arid environment.
Course is taught in Death Valley and is offered only winter term. Corequisite: GEOG 4703.
Prerequisites: A course in physical geography and consent of instructor. (Lecture, 1 hour; activity, 6
hours)

GEOG 4710 Field Methods (WP) (3 units).

Methods of field observation; techniques of data collection and analysis; field work and report writing
required. Satisfies upper division writing proficiency requirement. Corequisite: GEOG 4713.
prerequisites: Completion of the Writing Proficiency Screening Test with a passing score. Six units in
geography or consent of instructor. (Lecture, 2 hours; activity, 2 hours) (Fall)

GEOG 4720 Local Field Excursions (1 unit).

Provides students with directed field experiences, involving travel to and study of areas of special
geographic significance such as Yosemite, Point Reyes, Mono Lake, and others. May be repeated to
various destinations. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

GEOG 4730 Computer Applications in Geography (1-3 units).

A tutorial course for self-motivated students familiar with computer programs. Students will learn
mapping techniques and geographic information systems from available software. Prerequisites:
Consent of instructor and knowledge of cartography.

GEOG 4750 Geographic Information Systems (3 units).

The use of computers for input, storage, representation, analysis, and retrieval of spatial data for
cartographic purposes; GIS as a tool in information management and decision making. Corequisite:
GEOG 4752. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor and computer experience. (Lecture, 2 hours;
laboratory, 2 hours)

GEOG 4800 Survey of Geographic Thought and Literature (3 units).

Survey of the history and philosophy of geography, its place among the sciences and social sciences,
and the major contributors to the development of modern scientific geography. Prerequisite:
Consent of instructor.

GEOG 4900 Directed Field Research (1–5 units).

Field research conducted in any subdiscipline of geography under the direction of a specific faculty
member. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Prerequisites: Junior standing and consent of
instructor.

GEOG 4910 Cooperative Education (2–4 units).

Provides an opportunity to acquire relevant, practical experience in supervised paid employment within
the discipline. Students serve in private or public sector positions under the supervision of the
employer and Department Co-op Coordinator. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Prerequisites:
Sophomore standing and consent of departmental coordinator. (Fall, Winter, Spring).
GEOG 4930 Planning Issues (1–2 units).
On an individual basis, students will attend a selection of urban and/or county planning meetings
during one term and develop reports related to issues discussed. Must provide own transportation.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

GEOG 4940 Internship in Geography (1–6 units).

Designed for students who are serving as interns in public or private agencies. Students serve
internship as arranged between the agency and the department. Prerequisites: Nine upper division
units in geography and consent of instructor.

GEOG 4950 Selected Topics in Geography (Topics to be specified in Class Schedule) (1-5
units).
Topics vary each term, thus different topics may be taken for credit. Prerequisite: Consent of
instructor.

GEOG 4980 Individual Study (1–4 units).

For students capable of independent work and in need of advanced and specialized study. May be
repeated for a total of 6 units. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

GEOG 4990 Senior Thesis (3 units).

Senior thesis (a research topic to be agreed upon by the student and major professor). Geographic
research and writing incorporating primary sources of data and geographic methods. Prerequisites:
Senior standing, advanced course work in geography, and consent of instructor.

Postbaccalaureate
GEOG 5250 The Ethnoecology of Southeast Asia (4 units).
(Same as ANTH 5250) Drawing on case studies from Island and Mainland Southeast Asia (including
southern China) this course explores the long history of human-environmental interaction in the
region. We examine the causes of stress and instability in that interaction and the attempts to restore
viable relationships and systems. Prerequisite: Graduate standing or consent of instructor.

GEOG 5800 Seminar in the Development of Geographic Thought (3 units).

Seminar in the history and philosophy of geography, its place among the sciences and humanities, and
the major contributors to the development of modern scientific geography. Prerequisites: Graduate
standing and consent of instructor.

GEOG 5850 Seminar in Graduate Research (2 units).

Considers the techniques used, problems encountered, and results of the current research of graduate
students. May be repeated once for credit. Prerequisites: Graduate standing and consent of
instructor.

GEOG 5900 Directed Field Research (1–5 units).

Field research conducted in a subdiscipline of geography under the direction of a specific faculty
member. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Available only
for postbaccalaureate credit.

GEOG 5940 Internship in Geography (1-6 units).

Designed for postbaccalaureate or graduate students who are serving as interns in public or private
agencies. Students serve internship as arranged between the agency and the department.
Prerequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.

GEOG 5950 Selected Topics in Geography (1-5 units). (Topics to be specified in Schedule
of Classes.)
Innovative course of study in seminar format. Topics vary. Different topics may be taken for credit.
Available only for postbaccalaureate credit. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
GEOG 5980 Individual Study (1–4 units).
Individual study for qualified postbaccalaureate students in need of advanced and specialized study.
May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

GEOG 5990 Thesis (3–6 units).

Thesis research. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Prerequisite: Consent of graduate adviser.
14
BA GEOGRAPHY WORKSHEET (regular tract)

The Geography curriculum requires all students to take courses in each of the sub fields of the
discipline. A total of 36 units distributed in one of two program options outlined below is adequate for
students to achieve our objectives, and the major is comparable in structure to geography programs
at universities across the nation. These courses not only provide a broad background in geography,
they expose the student to the classroom, the field, and laboratory settings for instruction.

Geography major requirements: The Geography major offers two options: the (a) General Geography
track and (b) an Applied Geography concentration. These two tracks are organized differently and
have different goals and course emphases as follows:

A) The General Geography major is made up of upper division courses including 10 units of
human geography, 6 units of physical geography, 6 units of regional geography, 6 units
of methodology, and 8 units of electives for a total of 36 units.
B) The Applied Geography concentration is designed to provide geography courses that have
practical applications to careers in computer mapping, city planning, public
administration, and resource management. The Applied Geography concentration
requires the same lower division perquisites but has a core of upper division methodology
courses. Required courses include GEOG 3700, GEOG 3751, GEOG 4301, and GEOG 4710.
Other requirements include upper division courses including 6 units of other
methodologies, 6 units of physical geography, 6 units of human geography, 3 units of
regional geography, and 3 units of electives. This concentration also comprises 36 units.

PREREQUISITES TO THE MAJOR: UNITS GRADE SEMESTER NOTE

1. GEOG 2010 Intro to Physical Geography _____ _____ _______ __________

2. Complete one of the following:

GEOG 2020 Intro to Cultural Geography _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 2400 World Regional Geography I _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 2410 World Regional Geography II _____ _____ _______ __________

UPPER DIVISION REQUIREMENTS

Complete the major of not less than 36 upper-division units as approved by the major advisor. Four
units of CR-graded course work in courses graded exclusively CR/NC may apply toward the major, as
follows:

A. Topical Human Geography (10 units minimum)

1. GEOG 3010 Cultural Geography, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

Note: If Cultural Geography is taken at the lower-division level, GEOG 3020 (Human Ecology) should be
taken to fulfill I.a.i.
 UNITS GRADE SEMESTER NOTE
2. Complete two of the following courses:

GEOG 3020 Human Ecology, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

Note: If Restorative Human Ecology (Geog 4050) is taken, this course should not be taken to fulfill
requirements.

GEOG 3330 Ethnic Geography, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 3580 Cultural Geog of SEA Peoples, 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4050 Restorative Human Ecology, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
Note: If Human Ecology (Geog 3020) is taken, this course should not be taken to fulfill requirements.

GEOG 4070 Agricultural Geography, 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4210 Geog Problems of the Dev World, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4301 Permaculture Applications, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4350 Urban Geography, 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4610 Historical Geography of the U.S., 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________

Other GEOG______ _____ _____ _______ __________

B. Topical Physical Geography (6 units)

GEOG 3100 Climatology, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4120 Geomorphology, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

C. Regional Geography (6 units minimum)

Note: With prior approval, certain other regional geography courses may be substituted for the
courses listed below. See your advisor.

GEOG 3340 Calif Cultures and Environ, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 3350 Geog of Great Central Valley, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 3510 Geog of North America, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 3550 Geography of Europe, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4250 Ethnoecology of SEAsia, 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________

D. Methodology (6 units minimum)

Complete two of the following courses:

GEOG 3700 Cartography, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 3751 Intro Computer Apps in Geog, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
 UNITS GRADE SEMESTER NOTE

GEOG 4700 Death Valley Landscapes, 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4710 Field Methods (WP), 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4730 Computer Apps in Geog, 1-3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4750 Geographic Info Systems, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

E. Upper-Division Electives: Select electives to complete a total of at least 36 units, including

those upper-division units listed above.

Course: GEOG________ _____ _____ _______ __________

Course: GEOG________ _____ _____ _______ __________

Course: GEOG________ _____ _____ _______ __________

Course: GEOG________ _____ _____ _______ __________

Related --------------

Registration and Requirements 12

 15
BA GEOGRAPHY WITH APPLIED CONCENTRATION WORKSHEET

The Applied Geography concentration is designed to provide a core of geography courses, which have
practical applications to careers in computer mapping, city planning, public administration, and
resource management. Courses in this track are as follows:

The Applied Geography concentration requires the same lower division perquisites but has a core of
upper division methodology courses as follows:

PREREQUISITES TO THE MAJOR: UNITS GRADE SEMESTER NOTE

1. GEOG 2010 Intro to Physical Geography _____ _____ _______ __________

2. Complete one of the following:

GEOG 2020 Intro to Cultural Geography _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 2400 World Regional Geography I _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 2410 World Regional Geography II _____ _____ _______ __________

UPPER DIVISION REQUIREMENTS

Complete the major of not less than 36 upper-division units as approved by the major advisor. Four
units of CR-graded course work in courses graded exclusively CR/NC may apply toward the major, as
follows:

A. Complete the following required methodology courses (12_units):

GEOG 3700 Cartography, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 3751 Intro to Computer Apps, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4301 Permaculture Apps, 3_units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4710 Field Methods (WP), 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

B. Complete a minimum of 6 units from the following applied courses:

GEOG 4700 Death Valley, 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4730 Computer Apps in Geog, 1-3_units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4750 Geographic Info Systems, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4930 Planning Issues, 1-2 units _____ _____ _______ __________

C. Topical Human Geography 6 units minimum)

GEOG 3010 Cultural Geography, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
Note: If Cultural Geography is taken at the lower-division level, GEOG 3020 (Human Ecology)
should be taken to fulfill I.a.i.
 UNITS GRADE SEMESTER NOTE

GEOG 3020 Human Ecology, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

Note: If Restorative Human Ecology (Geog 4050) is taken, this course should not be taken to fulfill
requirements.

GEOG 3330 Ethnic Geography, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 3580 Cultural Geog of SEA Peoples, 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4050 Restorative Human Ecology, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
Note: If Human Ecology (Geog 3020) is taken, this course should not be taken to fulfill
requirements.

GEOG 4070 Agricultural Geography, 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4210 Geog Problems Dev World, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4301 Permaculture Applications, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4350 Urban Geography, 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4610 Historical Geog of the U.S., 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________

Other GEOG______ _____ _____ _______ __________

D. Topical Physical Geography (6 units) Complete the following two courses:

GEOG 3100 Climatology, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4120 Geomorphology, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

E. Regional Geography (3 units minimum)

GEOG 3340 Calif Cultures and Environ, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 3350 Geog of Great Central Valley, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 3510 Geog of North America, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 3550 Geography of Europe, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

GEOG 4250 Ethnoecology of SEAsia, 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________

F. Upper-Division Electives: Select electives to complete a total of at least 36 units, including those
upper-division units listed above.

Course: GEOG________ _____ _____ _______ __________

Course: GEOG________ _____ _____ _______ __________

Related --------------

Registration and Requirements 12

 16
GEOGRAPHY MINOR WORKSHEET

Students can obtain a minor in Geography by completing 18 units as approved by the minor
advisor. The Geography minor curriculum is handled primarily through advisement. It requires 18
units, at least 15 of which must be upper-division. Students must take at least one course each from
human geography, physical geography and regional geography.

UNITS GRADE SEMESTER NOTE

LOWER DIVISION
GEOG 2010 Intro to Physical Geography _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 2020 Intro to Cultural Geography _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 2400 World Regional Geography I _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 2410 World Regional Geography II _____ _____ _______ __________

UPPER DIVISION
A. Topical Human Geography (3 units minimum)
GEOG 3010 Cultural Geography, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 3020 Human Ecology, 3 units or GEOG 4050 _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 3330 Ethnic Geography, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 3580 Cultural Geog of SEA Peoples, 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 4070 Agricultural Geography, 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 4210 Geog Problems of the Dev World, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 4301 Permaculture Applications, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 4350 Urban Geography, 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 4610 Historical Geography of the U.S., 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
Other GEOG______ _____ _____ _______ __________

B. Topical Physical Geography (3 units minimum)

GEOG 3100 Climatology, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 4120 Geomorphology, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________

C. Regional Geography (3 units minimum)

GEOG 3340 Calif Cultures and Environ, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 3350 Geog of Great Central Valley, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 3510 Geog of North America, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 3550 Geography of Europe, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 4250 Ethnoecology of SEAsia, 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________

Other
GEOG 3700 Cartography, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 3751 Intro Computer Apps in Geog, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 4700 Death Valley Landscapes, 4 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 4710 Field Methods (WP), 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 4730 Computer Apps in Geog, 1-3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
GEOG 4750 Geographic Info Systems, 3 units _____ _____ _______ __________
Course: GEOG________ _____ _____ _______ __________

Related --------------

Registration and Requirements 12

17
LIBERAL STUDIES WITH GEOGRAPHY CONCENTRATION WORKSHEET

Requirements (21 units)

1. Complete two of the following courses (6 units):
GEOG 2010 Introduction to the Natural Environment, 3 units
GEOG 2400 World Regional Geography I: Europe and Asia, 3 units
GEOG 2410 World Regional Geography II: Africa, Australia, and Latin America, 3 units

2. Complete the following courses (6 units):

GEOG 3010 Cultural Geography, 3 units
GEOG 3020 Human Ecology, 3 units

3. Complete the following regional course (3 units):

GEOG 3510 Geography of North America, 3 units

4. Complete the required upper division inquiry course (3 units):

GEOG 3350 Geography of the Great Central Valley, 3 units

5. Complete additional units in geography (3 units), based on interest.

GEOG 3340 California Cultures and Environments, 3 units
GEOG 3550 Geography of Europe, 3 units
GEOG 3580 Cultural Ecology of Southeast Asian Peoples, 4 units
GEOG 3700/3702 Cartography, 3 units
GEOG 3751/3752 Introduction to Computer Applications in Geography, 3 units
GEOG 4070 Agricultural Geography, 4 units
GEOG 4120 Geomorphology, 3 units
GEOG 4210 Geographic Problems in the Developing World, 3 units
GEOG 4250/5250 Ethnoecology of Southeast Asia, 4 units
GEOG 4301 Permaculture Applications in Diverse Environments, 3 units
GEOG 4350 Urban Geography, 4 units
GEOG 4610 Historical Geography of the United States, 3 units
GEOG 4700/4703 Geographical Processes in Arid Landscapes: Death Valley, 4 units
GEOG 4750/4752 Geographic Information Systems, 3 units
GEOG 4800 Survey of Geographic Thought and Literature, 3 units

SOCIAL SCIENCES WITH GEOGRAPHY CONCENTRATION WORKSHEET

Students must take at least one course from topical human geography and one course from regional geography. Only
one unit of the self-guided field trip courses, GEOG 3930, 3940, 3950, or 3960 may be applied to the Social Sciences
Major.

a. Prerequisite: Complete one of the following:

GEOG 2020 Introduction to Cultural Geography, 3 units
GEOG 2400 World Regional Geography I, 3 units
GEOG 2410 World Regional Geography II, 3 units

b. Select nine to twelve upper-division units from the following:

• Topical human geography

GEOG 3010, 3020, 3300, 4070, 4210, 4350, 4650,4800, 4840
• Regional geography
GEOG 3340, 3350, 3510, 3550, 3570, 3590, 3650, 4210, 4610
• Methodology geography
GEOG 3700, 4700, 4710 (WP), 4730, 4840
 18
GENERAL EDUCATION WORKSHEET

A. Communication Skills (Area A.1, 2 and 3 must be completed before the junior year. Transfer students who have
not completed Area A must do so during their first year in residence.) (9 units minimum)
UNITS GRADE SEMESTER WHERE?
1. Oral Communication Requirement
COMM 2000 Public Speaking, 3 units, or _____ _____ _______ _______
COMM 2005 Honors Communication Seminar, 3 units, or
COMM 2110 Group Discussion Processes, 3 units

2. Written Communication Requirement _____ _____ _______ _______

ENGL 1001 First-Year Composition, 3 units, or
ENGL 1002 First-Year Composition (Computer Assisted Instruction), 4 units, or
ENGL 1005 Honors Composition, 3 units
(All require an EPT score of 149 or above prior to enrollment.)

3. One course selected from the following: _____ _____ _______ _______
COMM 2300 Argumentation and Critical Thinking, 3 units or
ENGL 2000 Critical Inquiry, 3 units, or
PHIL 2000 Philosophical Inquiry, 3 units, or
PHIL 2005 Honors Critical Thinking, 3 units, or
PHIL 2100 Logic, 3 units

B. Natural Sciences and Mathematics (9 units minimum)

Note: Complete at least one course from each of the 3 groups listed below. This must include a
laboratory course from either group 1 or 2.

1. Physical Sciences Requirement _____ _____ _______ _______

ASTR 2100 Descriptive Astronomy, 3 units, and ASTR 2112 Optional lab, 1 unit
CHEM 1000 Chemistry in the Modern World, 3 units, and CHEM 1002 Optional lab, 1 unit
CHEM 1100 Principles of Chemistry I, 5 units (includes lab)
CHEM 1110 Principles of Chemistry II, 5 units (includes lab)
CHEM 2400 Science of Winemaking, 4 units (no lab credit)
CHEM 2500 Chemistry of Photography, 4 units (includes lab)
CHEM 2600 Consumer Chemistry, 4 units (includes lab)
GEOL 2001 Regional Geology of California, 3 units (includes lab)
GEOL 2100 Principles of Geology, 3 units (no lab credit)
GEOL 2102 Principles of Geology Lab, 1 unit
GEOL 2200 Historical Geology, 4 units (includes lab)
GEOL 2400 Introduction to Earth Science, 3 units (no lab credit)
PHSC 1300 Environmental Pollution, 3 units (no lab credit)
PHSC 2100 Atmosphere, Weather, and Climate, 3 units (no lab credit)
PHYS 1500 Energy and Matter, 3 units, and PHYS 1502 Optional lab, 1 unit
PHYS 2100 Basic Physics I, 5 units (includes lab)
PHYS 2110 Basic Physics II, 5 units (includes lab)
PHYS 2250 General Physics I, 4 units, and PHYS 2252 Optional lab, 1 unit

2. Biological Sciences _____ _____ _______ _______

BIOL 1010 Principles of Biology, 3 units (no lab credit)

 BIOL 1020 World of Biology Laboratory, 1 unit, taken concurrently with BIOL 1010
BIOL 2310 Human Genetics, 3 units (no lab credit)
BIOL 2650 Environmental Biology, 3 units (no lab credit)
BOTY 1050 Introduction to Botany, 4 units (includes lab)
ZOOL 1050 Introduction to Zoology, 4 units (includes lab)

3. Mathematics (Area B3 must be completed before the Junior year; transfer students who have
not completed Area B3 must do so during their first year in residence. Requirements may be
partially satisfied by acceptable scores on a CLEP Subject Examination or a CSU mathematics test
(See Appendix N.) See Appendix K for Learning Disabled Student waiver.)

MATH 1000 Excursions into Mathematics, 3 units _____ _____ _______ _______
MATH 1030 Elementary Foundations of Mathematics I, 3 units
MATH 1070 College Algebra, 3 units
MATH 1080 Trigonometry, 3 units
MATH 1100 Precalculus, 4 units
MATH 1410 Calculus I, 4 units
MATH 1500 Finite Mathematics, 3 units
MATH 1600 Statistics, 4 units
MATH 1610 Statistics for Decision Making, 3 units
MATH 1910 Calculus with Applications I, 3 units
Note: All the above MATH courses require an ELM score of 50 or above prior to enrollment.

C. Humanities Requirement (Requirements may be satisfied partially by acceptable scores on the

CLEP Humanities General Examination.) (9 units minimum)
Note: Include at least 3 units from group 1, and 3 units from group 2, below.

1. Arts _____ _____ _______ _______

ART 1000 Introduction to Studio Art, 3 units
ART 1100 Visual Principles, Two-Dimensional, 3 units _____ _____ _______ _______
ART 1200 Visual Principles, Three-Dimensional, 3 units
ART 1340 Introduction to Ceramics, 3 units
ART 2515 Art History Survey-Ancient, 3 units
ART 2520 Art History Survey-Modern, 3 units
ART 2525 Art History Survey-Non-Western, 3 units (G)
ART 2530 Art Appreciation, 3 units
FA 1000 Introduction to the Fine Arts, 3 units
FA 1010 Fine Arts Practicum: Introduction to Visual Art, 3 units
FA 1020 Fine Arts Practicum: Introduction to the Theatre, 3 units
FA 1030 Fine Arts Practicum: Introduction to Music Skills, 3 units
MUS 1000 Introduction to Music, 3 units
MUS 1190 Music Fundamentals, 3 units
MUS 2000 Music of World Cultures, 3 units (G)
MUS 2400 Orchestra, 1 unit
MUS 2410 Concert Chorale, 1 unit
MUS 2430 University Chamber Singers, 1 unit
MUS 2440 Wind Ensemble, 1 unit
THEA 1010 Introduction to Theatre, 3 units
THEA 1110 Playgoing, 3 units
THEA 1500 Acting for Non-Theatre Majors, 3 units
THEA 1510 Dance for the Stage, 3 units
THEA 2300 Theatre Workshop I, 3 units

2. Literature/Philosophy _____ _____ _______ _______

ENGL 1010 Introduction to Literature, 3 units
HUM 2000 Introduction to the Humanities, 3 units _____ _____ _______ _______
PHIL 1010 Introduction to Philosophy, 3 units
PHIL 2200 Ancient Philosophy, 3 units
 PHIL 2230 Modern Philosophy, 3 units
PHIL 2400 Contemporary Moral Issues, 3 units
PHIL 2700 Introduction to Political Philosophy, 3 units

3. Foreign Language _____ _____ _______ _______

a. Most lower-division language or literature course taught in a foreign language.
b. ESL 1000 Beginning English and Grammar for ESL Students, 4 units
ESL 1005 Intermediate English and Grammar for ESL Students, 4 units
ESL 2000 English Grammar and Composition for Foreign Students, 3 units

D. Social, Economic, and Political Institutions and Human Behavior (12 units minimum)

1. United States History and Constitution/California State and Local Government:

Students may satisfy subject requirements in United States History and Constitution and
California State and Local Government by passing departmental examinations in these fields.
The California Code of Regulations, Title 5, Section 40404, requires “...appropriate courses in
the Constitution of the United States, and in American history, including the study of
American institutions and ideals, and of the principles of state and local government
established under the Constitution of this State....”

Completion of one course under (a) and the course under (b) satisfies these requirements.

a. One of the following United States history courses _____ _____ _______ _______
(which are not applicable to the upper-division General Education requirements):
HIST 2600 Problems in U.S. History, 3 units
HIST 3610 Colonial North America, 3 units
HIST 3620 Early National United States, 3 units
HIST 3630 United States After the Civil War, 3 units
HIST 3640 Contemporary United States, 3 units

b. One course covering United States Constitution and California State and local government:
PSCI 1201 American Government, 3 units _____ _____ _______ _______

2. A minimum of one course from each group is required (Requirements may be

satisfied partially by acceptable scores on the CLEP Social Sciences General Examination.)

a. Human Institutions : Structures and Processes _____ _____ _______ _______

COMM 2011 Introduction to Communication Studies, 3 units
COMM 2200 Introduction to Mass Media, 3 units
ECON 2500 Principles of Macroeconomics, 3 units
ECON 2510 Principles of Microeconomics, 3 units
HIST 1010 World Civilizations I, 3 units (G)
HIST 1020 World Civilizations II, 3 units (G)
PSCI 2000 Introduction to Political Science, 3 units
PSCI 2030 Global Politics, 3 units (G)
SOCL 1010 Introduction to Sociology, 3 units

b. Society and Culture _____ _____ _______ _______

ANTH 2060 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology, 3 units (G)
ANTH 2080 Introduction to Physical Anthropology, 3 units
ANTH 2090 Introduction to Archaeology, 3 units
COGS 2100 Introduction to Cognitive Studies, 3 units
CJ 2250 Introduction to Criminal Justice, 3 units
ETHS 2000 Contemporary African American Studies, 3 units
ETHS 2100 Contemporary Chicano Studies, 3 units
ETHS 2200 Contemporary Asian American Studies, 3 units
GEND 2020 Introduction to Women’s Studies, 3 units
GEOG 2010 Introduction to Physical Geography, 3 units
 GEOG 2020 Introduction to Cultural Geography, 3 units (G)
GEOG 2400 World Regional Geography I: Europe and Asia, 3 units
GEOG 2410 World Regional Geography II: Africa, Australia, and Latin America, 3 units
NURS 1040 Human Development Over the Life Span, 3 units
PSYC 2010 Introduction to Psychology, 3 units

E. Individual Resources for Modern Living (3 units minimum)

Note: Include one course from each group of courses:

1. CS 2000 Effective Computering, 3 units _____ _____ _______ _______

(Students may NOT use both CS 2000 and CS 4000 to statisfy GE requirements.)
CIS 2000 Introduction to Business Computer Systems, 3 units
GEND 2500 Women’s Development and Lifestyle Choices, 3 units
HLTH 1000 Health in Today’s Society, 3 units
HONS 3500 Information/Research/Analysis, 3 units
NURS 2040 Better Health with Self-Care, 2 units
NURS 2042 Better Health with Self-Care Activity, 1 unit
PSYC 1000 Sexual Behavior, 3 units
PSYC 2030 Psychology of Adjustment, 3 units
SOCL 2000 Intergenerational Experiences and Life Course Developments, 3 units

2. PHED 1010–1999 Physical Education Activities, _____ _____ _______ ______

1 unit (Students age 25 years or older at entry to CSU Stanislaus will not be held for this
requirement.)

F. Upper-Division General Education Requirements (9 units minimum)

Each student is to complete a minimum of 9 units of upper division level General Education course
work. These courses may be taken no earlier than the term in which upper-division status (completion
of 60 semester units) is attained. Students will not be given upper-division General Education credit
for course work in the discipline(s) of their major or concentration. The distribution of the 9 semester
units must include 3 units from each of the three following areas:

1. Natural Science and Mathematics _____ _____ _______ _______

a. Biology
BIOL 3000 Frontiers in Biology, 3 units
BIOL 3020 Introduction to Evolution, 3 units
b. Chemistry
CHEM 3070 The Chemicals in Your Life, 3 units
CHEM 3100 Environmental Chemistry, 3 units
c. Computer Science
CS 40006 Personal Computing, 3 units
d. Mathematics
MATH 3030 Mathematics for Elementary and Middle School Teachers, 3 units
MATH 3350 Applied Mathematical Models, 3 units
e. Other Natural Sciences
NSCI 3000 Science for Self-Sufficiency, 3 units
f. Physics and Physical Sciences
ASTR 3000 Contemporary Astronomy, 3 units
GEOL 3000 Physical and Environmental Geology, 4 units
GEOL 3500 Earthquakes and Volcanoes, 3 units
PHSC 3500 Solar and Other Alternative Energies, 3 units
PHYS 3080 How Thing Work, 3 units
PHYS 3520 Modern Physics and Quantum Mechanics, 3 units

2. Humanities _____ _____ _______ _______

a. Art
ART 4545 Modern Art 1870–1945, 3 units
ART 4555 American Art, 3 units
b. English
ENGL 3920 Masterpieces of World Literature, 3 units
ENGL 3940 Multicultural American Literature, 3 units (G)
HUM 3000 Exploration in Humanities, 3 units
HUM 4750 Perceptions of Culture, 3 units
c. Foreign Languages
FREN 3930 French Literature in Translation, 3 units
PORT 3930 Portuguese and Brazilian Literatures in Translation, 3 units
SPAN 3930 Spanish/Latin American Literature in Translation, 3 units
SPAN 3970 Contemporary Latin American Prose in Translation, 3 units
d. Music
MUS 3400 American Music, 3 units
MUS 3410 History of Jazz, 3 units
e. Philosophy
PHIL 3010 Classics of Western Philosophy, 3 units
PHIL 3050 Existentialism, 3 units
PHIL 4000 Philosophy Through Literature, 3 units
PHIL 4401 Professional Ethics, 3 units
PHIL 4450 Eastern Philosophy: Concepts, Methods, and Context, 3 units
f. Theatre
THEA 3020 Children’s Theatre, 3 units
THEA 3170 Real World Theatre: Comic Improvisation, 3 units (G)
THEA 4550 American Theatre, 3 units (G)

3. Social, Economic, and Political Institutions and Human Behavior

_____ _____ _______ _______
a. Agricultural Studies
AGST 3000 Agriculture, Environment and Society, 3 units
b. Anthropology
ANTH 3000 Anthropology and Global Issues, 3 units (G)
ANTH 3010 The Great Discoveries, 3 units
c. Business Administration (Not for Business majors)
ACC 3005 Personal Financial Planning, 3 units
CIS 3780 Management Information Systems and Microcomputers, 3 units
FIN 3210 Investment Management, 3 units
d. Cognitive Studies
COGS 3100 Communication Networks, 3 units
COGS 4100 Philosophical Aspects of Cognitive Science, 3 units
e. Communication Studies
COMM 3100 Advanced Interpersonal Communication, 3 units
COMM 4220 Technology and Communication, 3 units
JOUR 3030 Freedom of Speech and Press: Contemporary Issues, 3 units
JOUR 3040 History of Journalism, 3 units
f. Economics
ECON 3100 Economic History of the United States, 3 units
ECON 4500 Economics of Investment, 4 units
g. Ethnic Studies
ETHS 4200 The Minority Experience, 3 units (G)
GEND 4750 Comparative World Women: Perceptions of Gender, 3 units (G)
h. Gender Studies
GEND 3550 Society and Gender, 3 units
GEND 4530 Gender and Sexuality in Literature, 3 units (G)
GEND 4750 Comparative World Women: Perceptions of Gender, 3 units (G)
i. Geography
GEOG 3020 Human Ecology, 3 units
GEOG 3340 California Cultures and Environments, 3 units
j. Health
 HLTH 4300 Family Health, 3 units (G)
NURS 3040 Women's Health, 3 units
k. History
HIST 3090 Contemporary World History, 3 units (G)
HIST 3400 The Great Teachings, 3 units (G)
HIST 4750 Comparative World Women: Perceptions of Gender, 3 units (G)
l. Multidisciplinary
MDIS 4400 Politics of the Environment, 3 units
m. Nursing
NURS 3040 Women's Health, 3 units
n. Politics and Public Administration
PSCI 3055 Marx on the Human Condition, 3 units
PSCI 3225 Civil Liberties, 4 units
PSCI 4050 Big Arguments: Clashes and Connections, 4 units
o. Psychology
PSYC 3340 Human Development III: Adulthood and Aging, 3 units, or
CDEV 3340 Human Development III: Adulthood and Aging, 3 units
PSYC 4250 Drugs and Behavior, 3 units
p. Sociology
SOCL 3150 The Family, 3 units
SOCL 4520 Personality and Society, 3 units

G. Multicultural Requirement (3 units minimum)

Within General Education selections, students must complete at least 3 units of the following course
work that addresses multicultural, ethnic studies, gender, or nonwestern cultures issues. Courses that
fulfill both the multicultural and another General Education area requirement are indicated below and
are cross-referenced above with a “(G)”:
_____ _____ _______ _______
ANTH 2060 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology, 3 units (D2)
ANTH 3000 Anthropology and Modern Social Issues, 3 units (F3)
ANTH 3900 Women: A Cross-Cultural View, 3 units
ANTH 4165 The Family in Cross-Cultural Perspective, 3 units
ANTH 4211 The World in Change, 3 units
ART 2525 Art History Survey–Non-Western, 3 units (C1)
COGS 4350 The Information of Meaning, 3 units
COMM 3550 News from the Front Media and Public Perception, 3 units
COMM 4160 Intercultural Communication, 3 units
CJ 3315 Hate Crimes, 3 units
ENGL 3940 Multicultural American Literature, 3 units (F2)
ENGL 4530 Gender and Sexuality in Literature, 3 units
ETHS 4200 The Minority Experience, 3 units (F3)
ETHS 4350 Multiculturalism: From Bias to Reality, 3 units
GEND 3320 The Sociology of Men and Society, 3 units
GEND 3444 Gender and Sexuality in the Middle East, 4 units
GEND 3700 Ethnic and Gender Politics, 4 units
GEND 3900 Women: A Cross-Cultural View, 3 units
GEND 4350 Multiculturalism: From Bias to Reality, 3 units
GEND 4530 Gender and Sexuality in Literature, 3 units (F3)
GEND 4600 Philosophy and Feminism, 3 units
GEND 4750 Comparative World Women: Perceptions of Gender, 3 units
GEOG 2020 Introduction to Cultural Geography, 3 units (D2)
GEOG 3010 Cultural Geography, 3 units
GEOG 3330 Ethnic Geography, 3 units
GEOG 3580 Cultural Ecology of Southeast Asian Peoples, 4 units
GEOG 4050 Restorative Human Ecology, 3 units
HLTH 4300 Family Health, 3 units (F3)
HIST 1010 World Civilizations I, 3 units (D2)
 HIST 1020 World Civilizations II, 3 units (D2)
HIST 3090 Contemporary World History, 3 units (F3)
HIST 3400 The Great Teachings, 3 units (F3)
HIST 4750 Comparative World Women: Perceptions of Gender, 3 units
MDIS 3400 Latin-American Cultures, 3 units
MUS 2000 Music of World Cultures, 3 units (C1)
PHIL 4450 Eastern Philosophy: Concepts, Methods, and Context, 3 units
PSCI 2030 Global Politics, 3 units (D2)
PSCI 3444 Gender and Sexuality in the Middle East, 4 units
PSCI 3700 Ethnic and Gender Politics, 4 units
PSCI 3810 Multicultural Community Building and Conflict Resolution, 3 units
PSYC 3444 Gender and Sexuality in the Middle East, 4 units
SOCL 3250 Social Issues in Cross-Cultural Perspective, 3 units
SOCL 3320 The Sociology of Men and Society, 3 units
SOCL 4010 Race and Ethnic Relations, 3 units
THEA 3170 Real World Theatre: Comic Improvisation, 3 units (F2)
THEA 4550 American Theatre, 3 units (F2)

The Summit Program

Students have the option of joining the Summit Program as an alternative way to fulfill 6 of their 9
units of Upper-Division General Education requirements (area F in your catalog). Currently, students
select one course from each of three areas: Math/Science, Humanities, and Social Sciences.

The Summit Program provides an exciting way to fulfill 6 of these 9 units by enrolling in a linked
pair of courses. Each linked pair includes one Math/Science course (F1) and one Humanities
course (F2); one Math/Science course (F1) and one Social Science course (F3). For the curricular
area not covered by the linked pair, students will select an Upper Division General Education
course from the traditional menu (F1, F2, or F3). These are the features of the Summit Program:

• Each pair includes 2 courses that have been linked on an engaging topic. Faculty members will
integrate the 2 courses so that what students learn in one course will become the foundation to
the learning in the next course.
• Students will take both courses with the same classmates. This will give them the chance to get
to know each other and interact easily with each other in class discussions and group projects.
• Both faculty members in the linked pair may be interacting with students over both courses.
Students will be able to develop a personal relationship with them -- they will know students by
name.
• Enrolling in the Summit Program can begin in the term in which a student attains Upper-Division
status (completion of 60 semester units).
• Any student can enroll in any linked-pair, regardless of his/her major, and have the pair fulfill 6
of the 9 units of Upper-Division GE requirements.
• Students must successfully complete both courses in the pair to have these courses fulfill 6 of
the 9 units of Upper-Division GE requirements.
• By completing the Summit Program, students also fulfill their multicultural requirement (Area G
in your catalog). One course in each pair has been designated as a Multicultural course.
• Summit courses cannot be electives for a major or concentration; they may be used as
electives in a minor.

To receive information about the Summit Program, come to the First Year Program-Advising
Office in the MSR Building (MSR 170), call 667-3304, or contact Dr. Marjorie Jaasma in DBH 128.

To enroll in the Summit Program students select a pair. If the first course in a pair is offered
in Fall semester, they should enroll in that course via Web Registration. They will be enrolled in
the second course in the pair by the program coordinator. If the first course of a pair is offered
during Winter term, students should enroll in that course and the other Spring course via Web
Registration. During the first class meeting of the linked pair, students will complete a learning
contract that summarizes information about the program.

Select from the following 5 linked pairs:

Pair 1: War & Peace (fulfills Areas F1 and F2)

These classes will examine issues of global conflict in the post WW II era, focusing on the Cold War,
the Vietnam War, and the Gulf War through film, literature and technology.
Fall 2005: ENGL 3550, Years of War, Days of Peace: Post-1945 Literature and Film*, 3 units
Winter 2006: PHYS 3550, Physics for War, Physics for Peace, 3 units

Pair 5: Humans in the Information Age (fulfills Areas F2 and F3)

Why do we seek the kinds of information we seek? What is the meaning of that information? In these
classes, we will examine questions about information and meaning.
Winter 2006: COGS 4350, The Information of Meaning*, 3 units
Spring 2006: PHIL 4350, Human Interests and the Power of Information, 3 units

Pair 4: Perceptions: How We See theWorld (fulfills Areas F2 and F3)

This pair explores cultural perceptions in terms of history and art as they influence areas of the world,
such as Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa.
Fall 2005: HIST 4750, Comparative World Women*, 3 units
Spring 2006: HUM 4750, Perceptions of Culture, 3 units

Pair 3: The Real World: A Theatrical Work in Progress (fulfills Areas F2 and F3)
This theme will bring together two diverse topics in an entertaining and educational way. The focus
will be on real world application of accounting, leading up to the creation of an original theatrical
script.
Fall 2005: ACC 3170, Real World Accounting, 3 units
Spring 2006: THEA 3170, Real World Theatre Comic Improvisation*, 3 units

Pair 2: Waking Up to Nature: Ethics, Ecology, and Restoration Practices (fulfills Areas F2 and F3)
Can you live without frogs or spotted owls? Why care about the environment? Wondering what’s
happening to your environment and what you can do about it? Wrestle with environmental issues from
around the world and close to home. Make a real contribution to our understanding of this Central
California environment.
Fall 2005: PHIL 4050, Environmental Ethics, 3 units
Spring 2006: GEOG 4050, Restorative Human Ecology*, 3 units

* Designates Multicultural course that meets Area G requirement.

 19
PLAGIARISM AND ACADEMIC DISHONESTY

Plagiarism is the representation of work by others as your own. Plagiarism includes written text;
spoken words; charts, diagrams, and maps; as well as digital computer files. All of your work
must be your own. If collaboration has been authorized, you must acknowledge the collaboration in
writing. Like plagiarism, academic dishonesty is a form of cheating. It includes copying or using
unauthorized notes during exams or other evaluations. Plagiarism and academic dishonesty
result in serious consequences. At minimum, an instructor may give a zero grade for the
assignment in question, but a failing grade in the class and being dropped from the course may
be more appropriate and suspension (expulsion) from the university is warranted and may result.

For more information on the various kinds of plagerism and academic dishonesty, refer to the
CSUS student handbook (http://student.csustan.edu/handbook/index.php?page=171 and
http://student.csustan.edu/handbook/index.php?page=173).
20
READINGS – COPING WITH CLASSES

Getting the Best Out of Lectures and Classes by David Knight

Writing Essays and Related Assignments by Rachel Pain

Making a Presentation by Chris Young

Related --------------

Plagiarism and Academic Dishonesty 19

21
INTERNSHIPS

An internship is a valuable method to obtain on-the-job experience. Its benefits include

providing job experience (place it on your resume), providing contacts with employers, and
getting a sense of what you want to do after graduating.

Jobs in GIS and planning are becoming more common and geographers easily fill these positions
with experience gained in the classroom and through internships. These two areas offer ample
opportunities for internships, especially with local government agencies. Over the past few
years, many of our students have had internships at various local and state agencies including
the City of Turlock, San Joaquin County, Stanislaus County, Merced Area Association of
Governments, City of Modesto, the Great Valley Center, Compass Maps of Modesto, Modesto
Junior College, McHenry Museum and Historical Society, Ecology Action of Modesto, Condor Earth
Technologies, and CalTrans. While some internships are paid, the most are not. A good
internship allows you to be part of the agency's day-to-day activities.

Talk with your major advisor to explore internship possibilities. In addition, go to the campus's
Career Services Center (http://www.csustan.edu/career/Pages/sses.htm) in MSR 245, and better
yet, go directly to government agencies, organizations, and local companies that interest you and
inquire about internship programs. In this situation, you should provide the name of a faculty
member as a reference, an updated resume, and you should volunteer your services.

Be sure that you have the appropriate skills for the internship and that you stick with the
internship for a specified period of time. Some students get an internship and promptly leave it
the moment they believe it is not what they want to do for the rest of their life. This hurts the
chances of other students that want internships. Plus, an internship provides necessary work
experience that you will need when you are chasing your dream job.

Again, internships are important because you are more employable after this experience, and it
can provide you with a list of contacts for job opportunities. Additionally, you may end up
working for the agency where you had your internship.

Related --------------

Occupations 27
 22
four – geography’s facilities

“A map is the greatest of all epic poems. Its lines and colors show the realization
of great dreams.”

Gilbert Grosvenor

“The principle training of the geographer should come, wherever possible, by

doing fieldwork.”

Carl Sauer

LABORATORIES

THE FIELD

Our Geography program emphasizes many educational goals and objectives including one that gives
students field experience in as wide a variety of natural and cultural environments as possible. We
hope to instill in students the skill of observation and an appreciation for the importance of working
with other cultures in a variety of places to ensure the understanding of environmental and cultural
relationships and processes.

Fieldwork is often fundamental to the way geographers perceive, research, and understand the world.
As former AAG President Patricia Gober (1998, “Distance Learning and Geography’s Soul.” Association
of American Geographers Newsletter. May 1998. 33:5. page 2) states, “Most geographers have a
deep connection with places, one that has drawn
us to the field, one that we communicate to
students, and one that binds us together as an
intellectual community.” For this reason, the field
is considered our most important laboratory.
23
LABORATORIES – GIS LAB

The CSUS GIS lab supports teaching and research with geotechnologies including geographic
information systems, remote sensing, and global positioning systems. This lab is a hands-on,
exploration-based, multimedia-learning environment where students gain personal experience with
ideas, concepts, and problem solving from a variety of disciplines. Computer techniques make some
complex processes (like analytical modeling, non-linear and spatial correlation, layering, diffusion, and
cartographic representation) easier to understand, and give students direct experience in applying
concepts to problem-solving exercises. This approach to learning is consistent with broader
educational shifts. The lab supports and encourages the use of computer technology in all aspects of
geographic research including data collection, storage, management, analysis, and display. The lab is
located in L-110G. Each semester, a GIS lab schedule is posted on the lab's door and can be found
on-line at http://alslab.csustan.edu/

LABORATORIES – BIO-AG

The Bio-Ag Center serves as an outdoor laboratory and field

site on the CSUS campus for observation, demonstration, and
experimentation relating to the permaculture approach to
sustainable land use and environmental planning. Under the
guiding principles of permaculture, we utilize biointensive and
dynamic approaches to gardening and agriculture, while promoting heritage plant and animal species
and guilds of plants and animals. In this outdoor laboratory and classroom, faculty from a wide
variety of disciplines can provide practical experience and field application for their classes on topics
such as analysis of ecosystems, soil relationships, microclimate conditions, plant and microfaunal
diversity, ethnoecology, gardening as therapy, landscape restoration, landscape art, and others.
Central to the role of the BioAg Center is environmental education; the campus site will be used for
the presentation of educational workshops for future and practicing teachers, elementary, middle, and
high school classes and other community groups. Another role of the BioAg Center is to teach basic
principles of permaculture techniques which can be used in urban gardening, elementary and
secondary school-based programs, residential landscaping and in agriculture in general.

The focus is on maintaining and improving soil fertility, preservation of heritage species, building on
complex ecosystem principles that emphasize food web interactions and increasing plant and animal
diversity on site. An additional principle is to strive for low cost and low maintenance activities on site
through the use of appropriate technology in alternative
energies, irrigation, seed saving, recycling, soil preparation
and agriculture in general. Aspects of good nutrition and the
use of plants/gardens as therapy are stressed. The ethnic
diversity in the Central Valley provides an excellent
opportunity for studies in ethnoecology and for demonstration
ethnic gardens on site.

Related --------------

Maps GIS Lab 6

Maps Bio-Ag 7
 24
THE BRIDGE

The BRIDGE community center was started by geography faculty from CSUS and Anthropology
faculty from Modesto Junior College in 1989 as a site to get students involved in helping solve
community problems and provide community service while they learn about other cultures as well.
Several courses in geography use it for cultural immersion purposes. The BRIDGE, located in a low
income, ethnically diverse area of west Modesto, has been providing translation and cultural liaison
services; health, nutrition, and parenting workshops, ESL and GED classes and tutoring, training in
organic gardening, afterschool activities for children and teens, and acculturation and counseling
services for Southeast Asian families since 1989. Cambodian, Hmong and Lao clients come to The
BRIDGE from Stockton, Merced, Modesto and other areas in San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced and
Fresno counties. While most of our clients are Southeast Asian, our guiding principle is that anyone
who walks through the door and asks for help will receive help from us or a referral to another agency
that provides the type of assistance needed.

Over the past 16 years, The BRIDGE has provided services to almost 32,000 Southeast Asian clients.
We have also given over 1,000 cultural training workshops and presentations in the broader
community. More than 2,500 students have done community service learning, including some
graduate research, through The BRIDGE and its client network.
25
STUDY ABROAD

Completing part of your degree in another country will enrich both your degree program and your life
in many ways:

• You will enhance your education by adding a new, international perspective to your studies.

• You will have more career options. Your international experience provides a strong
professional advantage. The world’s most successful businesses are looking for people with
international experience.

• You will develop first-hand knowledge of other societies and cultures.

• You will improve your foreign language abilities.

• You will broaden your perspective on U.S. society and yourself.

• You will experience personal growth, especially in the areas of independence and self-
confidence.

Do you think you cannot afford it? Think again! Many program costs are comparable to the costs of
studying here and financial aid applies.

If you think you might be interested, take the following steps:

Step One: Ask yourself the following questions:

• Why are you interested in studying abroad?
• Where do you want to study?
• How long do you want to study abroad – academic year, semester, summer?
• Do you want to study a particular subject while abroad?
• Do you want to fulfill requirements for your major or minor?
• Do you know any languages other than English, or are you interested in learning another
language while abroad?
• Is cost a significant factor in your program selection?

Step Two: Research the various programs that are available (http://www.csustan.edu/Global_Affairs/data/
Study-Abroad/Data/programs/index.html).

Step Three: Talk with your geography advisor about the program that most interests you.

Step Four: Attend a Study Abroad Information Session. Information sessions provide an
introduction to study abroad and an overview of options for CSU Stanislaus students.

Step Five: Make an appointment to talk to the Education Abroad Coordinator. You will work together
to define and clarify your goals and program needs, and to select a program on the basis of your
qualifications and interests. Once you have selected the appropriate program, you can begin the
application process.

Note: Most of the above was taken from the Global Affairs webpage. For more information, checkout
their complete webpage at C:\Committees\Departmental\Study Abroad.htm or visit them in SSB145.
 26
OTHER FACILITIES AND RESOURCES

LIBRARY – The library is found in L-230. Their general webpage is http://library.csustan.edu/. To

access OLLIE, their library catalog, visit http://geoweb.csustan.edu:8000/. A list of electronic
journals can be found at http://library.csustan.edu/serialsolutions/onlineJournals/jnlsIndex.html.

GENERAL COMPUTER LABS – Information on the campus's general computer labs (see section 23
regarding GIS lab) is available at http://www.csustan.edu/oit/AITS/LabsMain.htm

UNIVERSITY STUDENT COUNSELING SERVICE – Information about student counseling is

available at http://www.csustan.edu/counseling/ or their main office is located at MSR210.

TUTORING – To receive tutoring, a student must receive permission and fill out a form that is
available in MSR230. Visit their webpage at http://www.csustan.edu/SSS/Data/Staff/
Tutorial_Assitance.html for more information.

CAMPUS WEB PAGE – The main webpage for CSUS is located at http://www.csustan.edu/.
 27
five – life after CSUS
“During the next decade geography will move to center stage in our society as
mobile, real-time, interactive geographic technologies and systems are adopted…in
most large-scale private and governmental organizations…”

Doug Richardson

OCCUPATIONS
The Association of American Geographer’s (AAG) brochure titled Careers in Geography lists three
primary job market sectors for geographers: education, government, and the private sector.

Education…needs K-12 teachers with solid geography backgrounds, since all states have recently
introduced higher standards for geography instruction. At the college level, exciting new courses
attract large numbers of students, and the demand for faculty with regional specialties or theoretical
and research capabilities is strong.

All levels of government…hire geographers. They may work for local and state economic development
or planning offices, conduct research in recreation and park use, or map land use from satellite
images. Many geographers at the federal level work for the National Imagery and Mapping Agency,
the Environmental Protection Agency, the Central Intelligence Agency, the U.S. Geological Survey, and
the Department of State.

Private sector firms…need geographers who can develop and apply geographic ideas and technologies
to complex real world systems. Geographers also conduct marketing studies, plan transportation
routes, understand international markets, and determine environmental risks associated with site
locations. From transportation agencies to electric utility companies, and from forestry to
telecommunications, real-time mobile interactive geographic technologies and databases are emerging
as the backbone of large-scale operations management systems for industries with distributed assets
and mobile workforces.

For more information, talk with your major advisor and visit the AAG's webpage at www.aag.org and
their career page at http://www.aag.org/Careers/Intro.html.

Related --------------

Internships 21
28
GRADUATE SCHOOL

Graduate school provides geography students with more options. It can help you attain a high-level
position and it enables you to teach at the college level. In addition, graduate school increases your
knowledge of the world, exposes you to new ideas and theories, provides you with the opportunity to
work with the best and latest geographic technology, and offers you the chance to work closely with
professors on research topics.

As you think about careers that you might want to enter, you should think about whether graduate
school is a part of your long-range plan. Talk it over with others and your faculty. If you decide to
pursue graduate school, here are several steps and considerations to selecting an appropriate
graduate school.

1. What type of geography interests you? Being interested broadly in geography is great, but
this will not help you in graduate school. Pick a subfield that greatly interests you, and I am
not referring to the broad categories of physical or human geography. Select a type of
human geography like ethnic, political, social, urban, etc. One should even be thinking more
narrowly than that.
2. Talk with your major advisor by the end of your junior year, even if you do not plan to attend
graduate school for several years.
3. Read the literature, especially the recent literature, of your chosen subfield. What articles or
books most impressed you? If the authors are professors, where do they teach? You should
consider those universities.
4. Look at the AAG's Guide to Geography Departments (we have a Department copy in C-215)
and pay particular attention to department specializations and the specializations of individual
professors. Add these to your list.
5. Look at the home pages of the universities on your list. What do they have to offer that
interests you? Check out faculty web pages. Go back to Step 3 and read the literature of
other professors that you have added to your list.
6. Talk with the faculty that you would like to work with. Perhaps start with an e-mail, but do
not just lavish them with praise. Give them specific details about their research that you
liked. Ask them questions that derive from their work. If they answer you, reply with a thank
you e-mail and state that you would like to come out and look at the department as a
possible location for graduate school.
7. Most graduate schools require that you take the GRE or another entrance examination. Your
scores must reach a certain level. Think about taking it twice to get the best scores possible.
8. High grade point averages and examination scores increase your likelihood of admission to a
graduate program, but contacts and letters of recommendation are also important.
9. You should select a few potential graduate schools based on a careful analysis of your
academic interests and abilities and the university's reputation, expertise, and cost. Apply to
at least two or three universities. Choices narrow down quickly as one gets an offer with a
teaching assistantship while others offer no funding.

Related --------------

Letter of Reference 29
 29
LETTER OF REFERENCE

Faculty frequently write references for students, and we like to be as supportive and individual as
possible. In addition to your assignments and grades, it helps us produce a timely letter if you
complete the department's "Letter of Reference" form. A copy is provided below, but it is also
available from the department secretary in C-215.