First Year Geography
Reimagine Your World by taking a Geography Degree at Trent
Considering studying Geography at Trent?
"Three and a half years ago when I started at Trent University, I had no idea I'd experience what I have. As a recent graduate of Geography-Biology, I became a member of the Trent University Geography Society(TUGS), played intramural sports, and went on countless field trips for class. I am now venturing off on a 10 week trip across South America, visiting 5 different countries, followed by a summer of employment monitoring biodiversity in Alberta. My experience with Trent University, and the support from faculty of the Geography and Biology departments, has provided me with the skills I need and will be important to my future."
Jessie Archer, Joint major in Geography and Biology
First-Year Geography Courses
GEOG 1040H – Earth’s physical processes and environments (Sc)
An examination of the atmospheric, tectonic and geomorphic forces that shape Earth’s physical environments. Issues addressed include soil conservation, groundwater resources and climate change. Involves local field work. GEOG 1040H is required for the B.A. and B.Sc. programs in Geography and is recommended for students planning to major in Biology.
Course Format:
Two one-hour lectures weekly plus three-hour workshop lab exercises fortnightly; local field work
Course Texts:
-Christopherson RW et al. 2016. Geosystems. 4th Canadian edition, Pearson (required)
-Adams WP & Taylor CH (2009) Peterborough and the Kawarthas, 3rd ed, Department of Geography, Trent University (recommended)
Course Instructor: Prof. Jim Buttle
GEOG 1030H – Human geographies in global context
This course examines the spatial organization of human activity, the significance of places in human life, and people's relationships with their environments. It includes the study of people, their culture, technology, economy and impact on the environment. While the course textbook is structured according to thematic units such as urban geographies, cultural geographies and political geographies, the lectures in this course present case studies that illustrate the value of spatial focus when considering local and global issues. Case study topics include environmental racism in Nova Scotia, genetically modified foods, conflict in Northern Ireland, planning for urban sustainability, and the geography of truth and reconcilliation. The aim of the course is to develop your understanding of human geography as a fundamental tool for making sense of the interconnected web of global and local spaces. GEOG 1030H is required for the B.A. and B.Sc. programs in Geography and Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems.
Course Format:
Weekly lectures and an optional discussion period, periodic workshops, and local field work
Course Texts:
-Rubenstein, James M. 2016 Contemporary Human Geography, 3rd ed. Pearson (required)
-Adams WP & Taylor CH (2009) Peterborough and the Kawarthas, 3rd ed, Department of Geography, Trent University (recommended)
Course Instructor: Prof. Susan Wurtele, national 3M Teaching Award winner
For more information, course notes/syllabi, assignments, and other details are available to enrolled students via myTrent >> learning system. For more information regarding these course offerings or the Geography B.A. and B.Sc. programs or syllabi, please contact Trent School of the Environment.