Both of our Geography programs are structured to ensure that you graduate with experience in human and physical geography.

• BA students focus their studies more in the area of Human Geography, adding electives in the social sciences to their degrees (e.g., Tourism Studies, Environmental Sustainability, Child and Youth Studies, Psychology, Sociology, etc.).
• BSc students focus their studies more in the area of Physical Geography, adding electives in the sciences to their degrees (e.g., Earth Sciences, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, etc.).
• In both degrees, students are required to take Geography courses from the opposite side, along with Geomatics and Environmental Geography courses.
• Both degrees also incorporate elective credit requirements where students can choose to add other areas of focus to their studies or take additional Geography courses.

Human Geography (BA)

Human Geography is concerned with (a) understanding the human world and its interaction with physical, built, and symbolic landscapes and (b) using this knowledge to work towards more equitable societies. Sites of human activity are critically examined at various scales: local, regional, and global.

We offer several courses in each of these areas, as well as several courses that integrate the cultural, social, and economic realms in examinations of urban and planning issues, community development, gender relations, producer services, development initiatives, historical geography, resource management, and regional studies. We also offer a range of methodology and field courses that provide students with the skills necessary for conducting primary research and gaining a better appreciation of the centrality of geography to understanding human life.

Physical Geography (BSc)

Physical Geography is the study of the Earth’s surface features and processes. It aims to explain the geographic pattern of landforms, soils, water, vegetation, and climate by understanding the processes operating at the surface of the earth, and how these processes interact, affect and complement human activities. Physical Geography at Brock emphasizes the field-based nature of the discipline. Students are exposed to a wide range of geographic studies including geomorphology, glacial studies, climatology, meteorology, biogeography, and environmental studies.

Geomatics (Integrated into BA and BSc)

Geomatics includes scientific and technological activities which integrate various fields, including cartography, remote sensing, and geographical information systems (GIS), for the collection, analysis, and management of spatially referenced data. Equipped with these skills, students are well positioned to meet the growing demand for professionals who combine a geographic education with strong geomatics skills. A number of geomatics courses are available at Brock.

A Bachelor of Arts and Sciences (BASc) in Earth and Planetary Science Communication is a unique degree that combines communications skills with a strong background in science.

This program is the only one in Canada that combines knowledge of Earth Science/Physical Geography with communication skills in a single four-year undergraduate degree. As a graduate, you will understand the science behind important modern issues such as global climate change, space exploration, and planetary resources. You will develop the skills to participate effectively and successfully in the discussions and debates surrounding science in a variety of fields and industries. It will enable you to pursue careers in communication roles for government agencies, NGOs, private companies, and journalism.

You will take the same courses as Earth Science and Communications majors. The first 2 years provide fundamental background knowledge in both disciplines. In the senior years, you can choose courses in your areas of interest and participate in collaborative projects.

In year 4, you can combine your scientific knowledge and communications skills. The fourth-year communication courses address more specific concerns about the environment and media, film and ecology, and data science. In a capstone course, you will complete a supervised project on a topic in the media format of your choice.

The overall goal of this degree is to prepare you with extensive knowledge about the Earth and planetary sciences and the skills to communicate well and create positive relationships between organizations and stakeholders. After graduation, you will be able to work effectively in various roles and positions within science policy debates and developments in a wide range of settings, including governments, NGOs and private companies.

Program option:

• BASc in Earth and Planetary Science Communication, Honours (4-year)