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Geography

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses

Geography is a spatial science that studies the Earth’s physical features and its human elements. Geography students study the relationships among geographic places, natural systems, society, and culture. Modern geographers study the spatial connections between humans and natural systems and are active in the study of global warming, desertification, deforestation, groundwater pollution, flooding, and sustainability. Geography is increasingly utilizing spatial technologies, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and remote sensing imagery, to study the Earth and its inhabitants.

There are three main branches of geography: human geography, physical geography and geographic information systems (GIS). Human geography is concerned with the spatial aspects of human existence observing how people and their activities are distributed, how cultures and populations interact, and how people create and sustain the places, the movement of people, and the interactions and influences between populations and cultures. Physical geographers study the physical elements and spatial processes that make up and shape the environment, including energy, air, water, weather, climate, landforms, soils, animals, and plants. GIS is an important emerging field that integrates the human and physical aspects of geography using computer mapping, spatial analysis, and remote sensing.

The Folsom Lake College geography courses satisfy lower division general education requirements in physical and social science degree programs. Students with the Associate in Arts in Geography for Transfer (AA-T Geography) will transfer with junior standing to the California State University system.

Degrees and Certificates Offered

A.A.-T. in Geography
A.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies: Social and Behavioral Sciences
Geographic Information Systems Certificate

Division Dean Greg McCormac
Department Chair Jason Pittman
Phone (916) 608-6615
Email mccormg@flc.losrios.edu

Associate Degrees for Transfer

A.A.-T. in Geography

Geography is a comprehensive discipline that seeks to understand the landscapes, features, occupants, and processes of the Earth. Geographers study the complex relationships among geographic places, natural systems, society, cultural activities, and the interdependence of all these over space and time. Geography is often seen as a bridge between human and physical sciences.

There are three main branches of geography: human geography physical geography and Geographic Information Systems(GIS. Human geography is concerned with the spatial aspects of human existence – how people and their activities are distributed in space, how people use and perceive space, and how people create and sustain the places that make up Earth’s surface. Physical geographers study the physical elements and spatial processes that make up and shape the environment, including energy, air, water, weather, climate, landforms, soils, animals, and plants. All geographers employ skills in cartography and spatial analysis.

Geographers also study the linkages between human activity and natural systems. Geographers were, in fact, among the first scientists to sound the alarm that human-induced changes to the environment were beginning to threaten the balance of life itself. Geographers today are active in the study of global warming, desertification, deforestation, loss of biodiversity, groundwater pollution, flooding, and more.

The A.A. transfer degree in geography provides students with a solid foundation in geography as well as the standard prerequisites for upper division coursework leading to the baccalaureate degree. The required and elective coursework surveys a broad spectrum of physical geography, human geography, GIS, and related disciplines.

For students planning to transfer to a four-year school with a major in geography, it is critical that you meet with an FLC counselor to select and plan the courses for your major. Schools can vary widely in terms of the required lower division preparation.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
GEOG 300	Physical Geography: Exploring Earth's Environmental Systems	3
GEOG 301	Physical Geography Laboratory	1
GEOG 310	Human Geography: Exploring Earth's Cultural Landscapes	3
A minimum of 6 units from the following:		6
List A: Complete at least 6 units from the following:
GEOG 306	Weather and Climate (3)
GEOG 322	Geography of California (3)
GEOG 330	Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (3)
GEOG 331	Exploring Maps and Geographic Technologies (3)
GEOG 391	Field Studies in Geography: Mountain Landscapes (1 - 4)
A minimum of 6 units from the following:		6
List B: Complete a minimum of 6 units from the following:
ANTH 310	Cultural Anthropology (3)
BIOL 350	Environmental Biology (3)
BIOL 410	Principles of Botany (5)
GEOG 334	Introduction to GIS Software Applications (3)
GEOG 391	Field Studies in Geography: Mountain Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOG 392	Field Studies in Geography: Coastal Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOG 393	Field Studies in Geography: Arid Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOG 394	Field Studies in Geography: Volcanic Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOL 300	Physical Geology (3)
GEOL 330	Introduction to Oceanography (3)
PHIL 320	Logic and Critical Reasoning (3)
POLS 310	Introduction to International Relations (3)
STAT 300	Introduction to Probability and Statistics (4)
Total Units:		19

The Associate in Arts in Geography for Transfer (AA-T) degree may be obtained by completion of 60 transferable, semester units with a minimum overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0, including (a) a minimum grade of "C" (or "P") for each course in the major or area of emphasis described in the Required Program, and (b) either the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education-Breadth Requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

understand and describe the complexity of relationships between humans and their environment.
demonstrate an awareness of the physical processes that shape the Earth.
compare and contrast the general biophysical and sociocultural differences and similarities among world regions.
recognize the utility of and demonstrate a proficiency with geospatial analysis techniques (GIS, cartography, spatial data collection and analysis, etc.) in solving contemporary geography problems.
evaluate the role that collegiate geographic studies can play in preparing a student for contemporary career in the geosciences.

Associate Degrees

A.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies: Social and Behavioral Sciences

The Interdisciplinary Studies degree is designed for students who wish a broad knowledge of arts and sciences plus additional coursework in a prescribed “Area of Emphasis”. This program is a good choice for students planning on transferring to the California State University or University of California. The student will be able to satisfy general education requirements, plus focus on transferable coursework that relates to a specific major and/or individual interest. This degree will have an "Area of Emphasis" in Social and Behavioral Sciences. These courses emphasize the perspectives, concepts, theories, and methodologies of the disciplines typically found in the vast variety of disciplines that comprise study in the Social and Behavioral Sciences. Students will study about themselves and others as members of a larger society. Topics and discussions to stimulate critical thinking about ways people have acted in response to their societies will allow students to evaluate how societies and social subgroups operate. (Possible majors at a four-year institution include, but are not limited to: history, sociology, social studies, psychology, and family consumer science.)

It is highly recommended that students consult a counselor to determine the classes within each area that will best prepare them for their intended transfer major.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
A minimum of 18 units from the following:		18
Select courses from at least 3 different disciplines.
ADMJ 300	Introduction to Administration of Justice (3)
ADMJ 302	Community Relations: Multicultural Issues (3)
ADMJ 320	Concepts of Criminal Law (3)
ANTH 310	Cultural Anthropology (3)
ANTH 319	Visual Anthropology: Introduction to Ethnographic Film (3)
ANTH 323	Introduction to Archaeology (3)
ANTH 330	Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion (3)
ANTH 341	Introduction to Linguistics (3)
BUS 320	Concepts in Personal Finance (3)
or ECON 320	Concepts in Personal Finance (3)
BUS 330	Managing Diversity in the Workplace (3)
BUS 340	Business Law (3)
BUS 345	Law and Society (3)
COMM 325	Intercultural Communication (3)
COMM 341	Organizational Communication (3)
COMM 351	Mass Media and Society (3)
COMM 363	Introduction to Communication Theory (3)
ECON 302	Principles of Macroeconomics (3)
ECON 304	Principles of Microeconomics (3)
ECE 312	Child Development (3)
or PSYC 372	Child Development (3)
ECE 314	The Child, the Family and the Community (3)
ECE 330	Infant and Toddler Development (3)
ECE 430	Culture and Diversity in Early Childhood Education (3)
ETHNS 300	Introduction to Ethnic Studies (3)
ETHNS 320	Introduction to African American Studies (3)
ETHNS 330	Introduction to Asian American Studies (3)
ETHNS 360	Introduction to Chicana/o/x Studies (3)
ETHNS 350	Introduction to Native American Studies (3)
GEOG 310	Human Geography: Exploring Earth's Cultural Landscapes (3)
GEOG 322	Geography of California (3)
HIST 307	History of World Civilizations to 1500 (3)
HIST 308	History of World Civilizations, 1500 to Present (3)
HIST 310	History of the United States (To 1877) (3)
HIST 311	History of the United States (1865 - Present) (3)
HIST 314	Recent United States History (3)
HIST 319	American Environmental History (3)
HIST 331	Women in American History (3)
HIST 344	Survey of California History: A Multicultural Perspective (3)
HIST 368	History of France (3)
JOUR 310	Mass Media and Society (3)
NUTRI 310	Cultural Foods of the World (3)
POLS 301	Introduction to Government: United States (3)
POLS 302	Comparative Politics (3)
POLS 310	Introduction to International Relations (3)
POLS 320	Introduction to Political Theory (3)
PSYC 300	General Principles (3)
PSYC 312	Biological Psychology (4)
PSYC 320	Social Psychology (3)
PSYC 335	Research Methods in Psychology (3)
PSYC 340	Abnormal Behavior (3)
PSYC 356	Human Sexuality (3)
PSYC 368	Cross Cultural Psychology (3)
or SWHS 331	Cross Cultural Psychology (3)
PSYC 370	Human Development: A Life Span (3)
SJS 300	Introduction to Social Justice Studies (3)
SOC 300	Introductory Sociology (3)
SOC 301	Social Problems (3)
SOC 310	Marriage and the Family (3)
SOC 321	Race, Ethnicity and Inequality in the United States (3)
SOC 341	Sex and Gender in the U.S. (3)
SOC 379	Making Social Change (3)
SWHS 302	Introduction to Psychology of Human Relations (3)
Total Units:		18

The Interdisciplinary Studies: Social and Behavioral Sciences Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See FLC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

evaluate how societies and social subgroups operate (Social and Behavioral Sciences).

Certificate of Achievement

Geographic Information Systems Certificate

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is an assemblage of computers, software, and workforce personnel collecting, managing, analyzing and displaying spatial data. GIS is used to make informed decisions regarding an array of disciplines including Marketing, Forestry, Hazard Analysis, Landuse Planning, Business, Watershed Management, and Anthropology. This interdisciplinary certificate provides the theoretical and technical skills necessary to begin using GIS in a wide variety of applications. Skills obtained include GIS software application, GPS use, spatial data analysis, data management, programming and cartography.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Certificate Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
GEOG 331	Exploring Maps and Geographic Technologies (3)	3
GEOG 334	Introduction to GIS Software Applications	3
A minimum of 1 unit from the following:		1
GEOG 300	Physical Geography: Exploring Earth's Environmental Systems (3)
GEOG 301	Physical Geography Laboratory (1)
GEOG 390	Field Studies in Geography (1 - 4)
GEOG 391	Field Studies in Geography: Mountain Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOG 392	Field Studies in Geography: Coastal Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOG 393	Field Studies in Geography: Arid Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOG 394	Field Studies in Geography: Volcanic Landscapes (1 - 4)
BUSTEC 309	Computer Familiarization (1)
CISC 310	Introduction to Computer Information Science (3)
CISP 360	Introduction to Structured Programming (4)
CISP 370	Beginning Visual Basic (4)
CISP 400	Object Oriented Programming with C++ (4)
CISP 401	Object Oriented Programming with Java (4)
CISP 407	Programming in Python (4)
CISP 430	Data Structures (4)
Total Units:		7

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

demonstrate proficiency in the application of GIS software and related technologies.
demonstrate proficiency in the collection, management, organization and manipulation of spatial data.
adeptly employ the principles of cartography in a GIS environment.
demonstrate proficiency in the application of spatial analysis skills.

Geography (GEOG) Courses

GEOG 300 Physical Geography: Exploring Earth's Environmental Systems

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
C-ID:C-ID GEOG 110
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course investigates the interrelationships between Earth and humans, with an emphasis on natural systems (solar energy balance, weather and climate, water resources, landforms, natural hazards, vegetation, and soil). Relevant application of these elements to today's world is stressed to help students better understand Earth's physical environment as well as human-environment interaction. A field trip may be required to relate class discussions to the real world. Students are encouraged to take the lab course (GEOG 301) concurrently. Consult a counselor to determine whether enrollment in the lab course is necessary.

GEOG 301 Physical Geography Laboratory

Units:1
Hours:54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5C
C-ID:C-ID GEOG 111
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides "hands-on" study of the basic principles and concepts involved in understanding Earth's physical environment. Lab topics include observation, measurement and analysis of Earth's energy balance, weather and climate, vegetation, landforms, and natural hazards, as well as topographic map reading, interpretation, and navigation skills. Field trips and spatial data collection activities may be required.

GEOG 306 Weather and Climate

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
C-ID:C-ID GEOG 130
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to atmospheric processes including energy and moisture exchanges, atmospheric pressure, winds, and global circulation. Severe weather conditions such as hurricanes and tornadoes are also studied. World, regional, and local climates are investigated. Student work will include weather observations and analysis of atmospheric data using charts, weather maps and radar and satellite imagery from the Internet and other sources. Because this course involves the use of some quantitative concepts, students are encouraged to have fundamental algebraic skills prior to enrolling in the course. Students may be required to attend a field trip and purchase a calculator for this course

GEOG 310 Human Geography: Exploring Earth's Cultural Landscapes

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area D; IGETC Area 4
C-ID:C-ID GEOG 120
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course investigates the diverse patterns of human settlement, development, and movement on earth, which evolved as a result of cultural and environmental factors. Emphasis is placed on understanding global population and migration patterns, language, religion, ethnicity, political and economic systems, development issues, agriculture and urbanization.

GEOG 322 Geography of California

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area D; IGETC Area 4
C-ID:C-ID GEOG 140
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a study of the natural and cultural environments of California, with special emphasis on the interaction of people with landforms, climate, natural vegetation, soils and resources. Historical, political, and economic development within this diverse environment is presented. The diversity of cultures which make up the state's expanding population are studied and compared. Analysis of relevant issues of the day including those based on ethnic and cultural differences form an integral part of this course.

GEOG 330 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:BUSTEC 309
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b)
C-ID:C-ID GEOG 155
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a computer-based data processing tool used to manage and analyze spatial information. Applications of GIS include environmental assessment, analysis of natural hazards, management of municipal networks, business and industry site analysis, resource management and land-use planning. This course introduces the concepts, techniques, and tools of GIS including spatial data capture, management and analysis, as well as cartographic output through hands-on experience using GIS software. Students may be required to purchase GIS software and a flash drive in order to complete this course.

GEOG 331 Exploring Maps and Geographic Technologies

Units:3
Hours:50 hours LEC; 12 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:GEOG 300; CISC 300 or equivalent with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
C-ID:C-ID GEOG 150
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces students to the exciting world of maps (both hard-copy and digital) and the geographic techniques and technologies that are utilized in the creation of modern cartographic documents. The examination of cartographic constructs, basic statistics, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), Internet mapping, remote sensing, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) will shed light on this interesting and rapidly changing area of spatial inquiry. A portable USB storage device may be required for this class. Short field activities may be required.

GEOG 334 Introduction to GIS Software Applications

Units:3
Hours:50 hours LEC; 12 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:BUSTEC 309, GEOG 330, or GEOG 331
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are computer-based mapping programs that analyze spatial data. This course provides the foundation for using desktop GIS software. A conceptual overview along with hands-on experience will be used to explore basic GIS software functionality. Emphasis will be placed on display characteristics, attribute querying, database exploration and management, spatial analysis, data creation, and cartographic presentation. A portable USB storage device is required and should be provided by the student. Not open to students who have completed GEOG 332.2

GEOG 344 Spatial Analysis and Modeling in GIS

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:GEOG 330 or 331 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides a survey of the various concepts, approaches, and tools involved in the analysis and modeling of spatial data using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Emphasis is on the investigation of spatial distributions and relationships, and the methods used to answer spatial questions and solve spatial problems. Specific topics include statistical and spatial analysis, geoprocessing, spatial modeling, and map algebra. Additional topics include distance and density surfaces, cluster analysis, surface interpolation and resampling, hydrologic analysis, 3D display/animation, and regression analysis.

GEOG 390 Field Studies in Geography

Units:1 - 4
Hours:3 - 24 hours LEC; 18 - 144 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:GEOG 300
Transferable:CSU
C-ID:C-ID GEOG 160
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers the field study of geographic principles and processes of specific areas (mountains, deserts, seashore, etc.). Course content will vary by destination. Topics may include physical geography, human geography, and/or geographic techniques such as the application of tools and techniques used for geographic field research (e.g., map and compass use, the Global Positioning System (GPS), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), etc.). Field trip(s) are required. For specific details, see the course description listed in the schedule. Students will be responsible for providing their own lodging (or camping equipment) and meals. At a minimum it is recommended that students be prepared to spend a full day in the field. This may require a day-pack, water container(s), food, foul weather gear, field notebook, clipboard, whistle, and personal safety gear (warm clothing, medications, cell phone, GPS, sunscreen, sunglasses, hiking shoes, and a hat).

GEOG 393 Field Studies in Geography: Arid Landscapes

Units:1 - 4
Hours:6 - 24 hours LEC; 36 - 144 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:GEOG 300
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course involves the study of geographic principles and processes in arid environments. The course content will vary by destination but may include topics in physical geography (e.g., plant and animal communities, climate and weather, geology and geomorphology, natural hazards, environmental impacts, etc.), human geography (e.g., cultural landscapes, economic activities, transportation issues, land use patterns, etc.), and include introduction to tools and techniques used for geographic field research (e.g., map and compass use, the Global Positioning System (GPS), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), etc.). Field excursions are required.

GEOG 495 Independent Studies in Geography

Units:1 - 3
Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

GEOG 498 Work Experience in Geography

Units:0.5 - 4
Hours:30 - 300 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:ENGWR 110 and ESL 325 with grades of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides students with opportunities to develop marketable skills in preparation for employment or advancement within the field of Geography. Course content will include understanding the application of education to the workforce; completing required forms which document the student's progress and hours spent at the work site; and developing workplace skills and competencies. During the semester, the student is required to attend orientation. The student is required to complete 37.5 hours of related paid work experience, or 30 hours of related unpaid work experience for 0.5 unit. An additional 37.5 or 30 hours of related work experience is required for each additional 0.5 units. The course may be taken for a maximum of 16 units. Students should have access to a computer, the Internet, and some computer media such as a USB drive to store data files. Online students must have an email account. Only one Work Experience course may be taken per semester.

GEOG 499 Experimental Offering in Geography

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.