Geography
Overview
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 Dr. Lorena Navarro
-
Department Chair
Jason Pittman
- Phone (916) 608-6615
- Email navarrl@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.
This program has the following completion requirements:
(1) Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University, including both of the following:
(A) Cal-GETC the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) Requirement.
(B) A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.
(2) Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.
ADTs require that students must earn a “C” or better in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis. A “P” (Pass) grade is also an acceptable grade for courses in the major if the course is taken on a Pass/No Pass basis.
Catalog Date: August 1, 2026
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 390 | Field Studies in Geography (1 - 4) | |
| A minimum of 6 units from the following: | 6 | |
| List B: Complete a minimum of 6 units from the following, or any course not used from List A: | ||
| ANTH 310 | Cultural Anthropology (3) | |
| BIOL C1000 | Introduction to Biology with Lab (4) | |
| BIOL 310 | General Biology (4) | |
| GEOG 334 | Introduction to GIS Software Applications (3) | |
| GEOL 300 | Physical Geology (3) | |
| PHIL 320 | Logic and Critical Reasoning (3) | |
| POLS 310 | Introduction to International Relations (3) | |
| PSYC 330 | Introductory Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (3) | |
| STAT C1000 | Introduction to 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 2.0 GPA, including (a) the major or area of emphasis described in the Required Program, and (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) Requirement.
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 in Social and Behavioral Science degree provides an interdisciplinary approach to academic studies. The purpose of the program is for students to gain an understanding of the interconnectedness of various social and behavioral sciences. 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, 2026
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 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 C2002 | Principles of Macroeconomics (3) | |
| ECON C2001 | Principles of Microeconomics (3) | |
| SOC 301 | Social Problems (3) | |
| ECON 307 | Global Issues in the Political Economy (3) | |
| ECE 312 | 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 350 | Introduction to Native American Studies (3) | |
| SOC 310 | Marriage and the Family (3) | |
| ETHNS 330 | Introduction to Asian American Studies (3) | |
| ETHNS 351 | Native American Policy and Law (3) | |
| ETHNS 360 | Introduction to Chicana/o/x Studies (3) | |
| SOC 321 | Race, Ethnicity and Inequality in the United States (3) | |
| SOC 341 | Sex and Gender in the U.S. (3) | |
| GEOG 310 | Human Geography: Exploring Earth's Cultural Landscapes (3) | |
| GEOG 322 | Geography of California (3) | |
| HIST 301 | History of Europe and Mediterranean World to 1550 (3) | |
| HIST 302 | History of Europe Since 1500 (3) | |
| HIST 307 | History of World Civilizations to 1500 (3) | |
| HIST 308 | History of World Civilizations, 1500 to Present (3) | |
| HIST C1001 | United States History to 1877 (3) | |
| HIST C1002 | United States History since 1865 (3) | |
| HIST 314 | Recent United States History (3) | |
| HIST 319 | American Environmental History (3) | |
| SOC 379 | Making Social Change (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) | |
| KINES 416 | Psychology of Sport (3) | |
| NUTRI 310 | Cultural Foods of the World (3) | |
| POLS C1000 | American Government and Politics (3) | |
| POLS 302 | Comparative Politics (3) | |
| POLS 310 | Introduction to International Relations (3) | |
| POLS 320 | Introduction to Political Theory (3) | |
| PSYC C1000 | Introduction to Psychology (3) | |
| PSYC 320 | Social Psychology (3) | |
| SWHS 302 | Introduction to Psychology of Human Relations (3) | |
| PSYC 335 | Research Methods in Psychology (3) | |
| PSYC 340 | Abnormal Behavior (3) | |
| PSYC 356 | Human Sexuality (3) | |
| PSYC 368 | Cross Cultural Psychology (3) | |
| PSYC 370 | Human Development: A Life Span (3) | |
| PSYC 390 | Psychology of Death and Dying (3) | |
| SJS 300 | Introduction to Social Justice Studies (3) | |
| SOC 300 | Introductory Sociology (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, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. 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
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, 2026
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) | |
| 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:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5A
- C-ID:C-ID GEOG 110
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2026
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:Cal-GETC Area 5C
- C-ID:C-ID GEOG 111
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2026
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:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5A
- C-ID:C-ID GEOG 130
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2026
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:Local GE L4; Cal-GETC Area 4
- C-ID:C-ID GEOG 120
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2026
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:Local GE L4; Cal-GETC Area 4
- C-ID:C-ID GEOG 140
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2026
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:Local GE L2
- C-ID:C-ID GEOG 155
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2026
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
- Transferable:CSU; UC
- General Education:Local GE L5
- C-ID:C-ID GEOG 150
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2026
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, the scientific method 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, 2026
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 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, 2026
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 495 Independent Studies in Geography
- Units:1 - 3
- Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2026
GEOG 498 Work Experience in Geography
- Units:0.5 - 4
- Hours:30 - 300 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:ENGL 110 and ESL 325 with grades of "C" or better
- Transferable:CSU
- General Education:Local GE L7B
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2026
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, 2026
This is the experimental courses description.
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