Geography
Web site: http://www.geog.ucsb.edu (will open in a new browser window)
Department Chair: Michael Goodchild
Oliver Chadwick, Ph.D., University of Arizona, Professor (pedology, soil geomorphology, soil geochemistry, quaternary geology, organic and mineral fluxes during soil, atmosphere, water and vegetation interaction)
Richard L. Church, Ph.D., Johns Hopkins University, Professor (facilities location and related computational algorithms, urban and regional modeling/planning, water resources)
Keith Clarke, Ph.D., University of Michigan, Professor (cartography and geographic information systems)
Helen Couclelis, Ph.D., Cambridge University, Professor (spatial cognition and behavioral geography, urban and regional theory and modeling, planning, the philosophy of science)
Frank Davis, Ph.D., Johns Hopkins University, Professor (biogeography, plant ecology, remote sensing, information systems and conservation planning)
Tommy Dickey, Ph.D., Princeton University, Professor (atmosphere-ocean interactions and upper ocean mixing; turbulence and internal waves)
John E. Estes, Ph.D., UC Los Angeles, Professor (remote sensing, emphasizing sensor and information systems, land-use study, regional resource base determination and evaluation)
Catherine Gautier, Ph.D., University of Paris, Professor (earth radiation budget and cloud processes, large-scale hydrology and surface/atmosphere interaction, radiative transfer and remote sensing, global climate processes and earth system science)
Reginald G. Golledge, Ph.D., University of Iowa, Professor (spatial cognition, behavioral geography and decision making)
Michael F. Goodchild, Ph.D., McMaster University, Professor (spatial analysis and geographic information systems)
Hugo A. Loaiciga, Ph.D., UC Davis, Professor (water resources, surface and groundwater hydrology)
Leal Mertes, Ph.D., University of Washington, Associate Professor (fluvial geomorphology, remote sensing of wetlands, long-term evolution of large river systems, Amazon River)
Joel Michaelsen, Ph.D., UC Berkeley, Professor (climatology/meteorology, climate change, marine resources, temporal and spatial statistics)
Daniel Montello, Ph.D., Arizona State University, Associate Professor (spatial perception, cognition and behavior, cognitive issues in cartography and GIS, spatial aspects of social behavior, environmental psychology and behavioral geography)
James Proctor, Ph.D., UC Berkeley, Associate Professor (environmental and cultural geography, environmental philosophy, geographic thought, geographic education)
Dar Roberts, Ph.D., University of Washington, Associate Professor (remote sensing of vegetation and soils, geobotany and spectroscopy, geology, ecology and ecophysiology)
David Siegel, Ph.D., University of Southern California, Professor (physical oceanography, numerical modeling and supercomputing, bio-optical oceanography, turbulence, air-sea interaction and theoretical ecology)
Terence R. Smith, Ph.D., Johns Hopkins University, Professor (spatial data processing, spatial analysis, spatial databases, knowledge-based approaches to geographic information systems)
Stuart Sweeney, Ph.D., University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Assistant Professor (urban and regional modeling/planning, human migration, local economic development, spatial statistics)
Libe Washburn, Ph.D., UC San Diego, Professor (physical oceanography, ocean turbulence and mixing processes, ocean bio/optics, air-sea interaction and marine pollution)
Raymond C. Smith, Ph.D., Stanford University, Professor Emeritus
Waldo R. Tobler, Ph.D., University of Washington, Professor Emeritus
Thomas Dunne, Ph.D. (School of Environmental Science and Management)
John M. Melack, Ph.D. (Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology)
Jeff Dozier, Ph.D. (The Donald Bren School of Environmental Science and Management)
The geography major is designed to provide a fundamental background for students seeking an interdisciplinary understanding of the world; to offer training for careers in business, government, and teaching; to prepare students for graduate studies in theoretical and applied work in geography; and to prepare students to conduct original research.
The program is organized around systematics courses and a range of quantitative and computer techniques, and students will normally acquire familiarity with elements of both. Students interested in becoming professional geographers are encouraged to develop additional expertise in one or more related disciplines. Specific individual programs may be worked out in consultation with advisors.
Undergraduate advisors are available for consultation throughout the year. A faculty member acts as advisor to graduate students and is available for consultation, by appointment, throughout the year. Prospective or new students should speak with an advisor when they arrive on campus.
Students with a bachelor's degree in geography who are interested in pursuing
a California Teaching Credential should contact the credential advisor in the
Graduate School of Education as soon as possible.
Preparation for the major. Geography 3A-B; Geography 5. One course from either of these two groups: A. EEMB 20 or MCDB 20 or EEMB 21 or Geology 2 or Natural Science 1C. B. Anthropology 2 or 5; Economics 1 or 2; Environmental Studies 3 or Political Science 7 or Psychology 1 or Sociology 1. Also required, one course from PSTAT 5A or EEMB 30 or Psychology 5 or Sociology 3. Strongly recommended: Geography 13, one course in computer programming and Geology 17.
Upper-division major. Thirty-six upper-division units in geography are required, distributed as follows:
8 units from systematics courses: Geography 102, 104, 105, 108, 110, 112, 114A, 114AL, 114B, 114BL, 116, 116L, 119, 120, 123, 124, 133, 134, 143, 144, 146, 153A-C-D-E, 162A, 162AL, 163, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 170, 170L, 180, 185A-B-C-D, 187, 188, 190, 195, 198, 199, 199RA (consult advisor for unit limitations on 198/199 courses);
8 units from techniques courses: Geography 103, 115A-B-C-AL-BL-CL, 117B, 118, 128, 136, 138, 151, 172, 172L, 176A-B-C-BL-CL, 181, 184A-B, 191, 191L, 193 (only 4 units of 193 may be applied to the major);
4 units from regional courses: Geography 148, 149, 150, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160;
Upper-division geography electives to bring unit total to 36. A maximum of 8 upper-division units from a list of approved alternatives or by petition.
Bachelor of Science--Physical Geography
Preparation for the major. Fifty-three lower-division units are required, as follows. Geography 3A-B, 5; Mathematics 3A-B-C; Physics 6A-B-C or Physics 1, 2, 3, 3L, 4, 4L, PSTAT 5A or EEMB 30; Chemistry 1A-AL. In addition, students must select a minimum of 12 units from the following courses: Chemistry 1B-BL, 1C-CL; Geology 2; MCDB 1A-AL. Strongly recommended: Mathematics 5A-B-C; Computer Science 12; Geography 13; and any additional courses from those listed above.
Upper-division major. Forty-six upper-division units are required, as follows. Ten units from Geography 102, 172, 172L. Twelve units from Geography 115A-AL-B-BL-C-CL, 118, 128, 151, 176A-B-C-BL-CL, 184A-B. Twelve units from Geography 104, 110, 112, 114A, 114AL, 134, 167. Twelve units from Geography 114B, 114BL, 116, 1116L, 119, 123, 133, 136, 144, 158, 160, 162A, 162AL, 163, 165, 166, 168, 169, 170, 170L, 185D.
Note: No units from Geography 193, 198, or 199RA will be counted toward
a B.S. degree in physical geography.
In addition to departmental requirements, candidates for graduate degrees must meet university degree requirements found in the section "Graduate Education at UCSB."
The Geography Department offers specialized graduate training leading to the M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in a selection of areas including the following:
Earth System Science (ESS): This systematic area emphasizes the measurement, analysis, and modeling of hydrologic, atmospheric, oceanic, and terrestrial systems and the interaction between systems. A large proportion of the problems addressed by researchers in ESS involve three common elements: large regional issues; mathematical and computational modeling; and large, spatially-indexed datasets.
Human-Environment Relations (HER): This systematic area covers the major components of human geography offered by the department, including human spatial behavior, spatial decision making and decision support, urban and regional modeling, planning and policy, human movement and transportation systems, resource and environmental management, environmental ethics, and human response to the changing environment.
Modeling, Measurement and Computation (MMC): This area involves the investigation of those sets of techniques from the areas of analysis, statistics and computation that are particularly well-suited to the modeling of the complex, geographic phenomena that are the subject of investigation in both ESS and HER. Important sub-areas include numerical modeling, spatial statistics, remote sensing, computational modeling and database systems (including GIS) and visualization, all of which are increasingly dependent on knowledge of computational theory and practice.
Admission
In addition to the university requirements for admission to graduate status described in the chapter "Graduate Education at UCSB," the department requires a high undergraduate grade-point average, particularly during the last two years of study. An undergraduate degree in geography is not required. Applicants with strong academic backgrounds in specific systematic study areas are strongly encouraged to apply. All applicants are required to submit verbal, quantitative, and analytical Graduate Record Examination scores; total combined scores on the verbal and quantitative portions of the exam should exceed 1100. Some undergraduate preparation in mathematics, statistics and computer programming is encouraged.
Students applying to the department with an undergraduate degree only are encouraged to apply for the M.A./Ph.D. program if the Ph.D. is their final degree objective. Upon completion of the M.A. thesis, the student's thesis committee chair will submit a recommendation to the department Graduate Committee regarding admission to the Ph.D. program. The Graduate Committee makes the final decision on admission or denial for those M.A. students wishing to continue into the Ph.D. program.
Applications are accepted for Fall only; the application deadline is January 15.
Degree Requirements
The M.A. degree may be obtained under either of two plans. Plan 1 requires 34 units, at least 12 in 200-level geography courses exclusive of Geography 201, 200A, B, or C. A thesis is required. Plan 2 requires 46 units, at least 22 in 200-level geography courses exclusive of Geography 201, 200A, B, or C, and a final examination assessing general knowledge of geography and knowledge of the candidate's chosen specialty area.
Doctor of Philosophy--Geography
Degree Requirements
All Ph.D. students must major in a systematic area of study and are expected to develop great depth in techniques areas but will be tested only in one technical area. No foreign language is required.
All doctoral candidates must serve as teaching assistants for at least one quarter.
Students will be required to take a diagnostic interview to assist in the preparation for undertaking a doctoral program in geography. Before advancement to candidacy, students must pass both a written and an oral qualifying examination and secure approval of a dissertation proposal.
Following completion of doctoral research, students will prepare a dissertation which must be approved by each member of their Ph.D. committee.
Before approving the dissertation, the student's doctoral committee may call in the candidate for an open oral defense to clarify segments of the dissertation and/or acquaint the candidate with the nature of any further work that needs to be undertaken prior to approval of the dissertation. The department encourages its doctoral candidates to present the results of their doctoral research to the university community in a public lecture.
Optional Ph.D. Emphasis in Cognitive Science
Students pursuing a Ph.D. in this department may petition to add an emphasis in cognitive science. The interdisciplinary program in cognitive science involves faculty from the Ph.D. programs in anthropology, computer science, education, English, electrical and computer engineering, geography, linguistics, psychology, and sociology. Its goal is to give students an appreciation of the interdisciplinary study of thinking, perception, and intelligent behavior, as determined jointly by the nature of the environment and by the internal architecture of the intelligent agent, whether human, animal, or machine. The program features a structured set of courses which are taught individually and collaboratively by faculty from a variety of disciplines.
Students who petition to add the emphasis in cognitive science must fulfill the following requirements in addition to the requirements of the Ph.D. in their home department: (1) participation for at least three quarters in proseminar Interdisciplinary 200; (2) completion of at least three cognitive science elective courses with one each in three different departments; (3) completion of either (a) a research project, completed before the dissertation, resulting in a publishable paper, or (b) an extramural grant proposal for a study in cognitive science suitable for submission to an identified granting agency; (4) presentation of a research paper in a suitable academic forum, such as an emphasis or departmental colloquium, or a professional meeting; and (5) a Ph.D. dissertation centrally focused on a question emerging from cognitive science with at least two committee members representing faculty participating in the cognitive science interdisciplinary emphasis.
Optional Ph.D. Emphasis in Quantitative Methods in the Social Sciences
Students pursuing a Ph.D. in this department may petition to add an interdisciplinary emphasis in quantitative methods in the social sciences (QMSS). This new interdisciplinary emphasis involves faculty from the Ph.D. programs in communication, economics, education, geography, political science, psychology, sociology, and statistics and applied probability. The areas of specialization of the participating faculty include advanced regression modeling techniques, multivariate statistics, bootstrap estimation methods, demography, econometrics, psychometrics, social network theory, mathematical psychology, spatial statistics, survey research, and educational and psychological assessment. The QMSS emphasis helps students to attain the competencies needed to conduct quantitative social science research through core design and analysis classes, courses in advanced and specialized methodologies, and participation in interdisciplinary colloquia and research projects.
Each admitted student will develop, with his or her advisor, an individual contract listing the QMSS requirements to be completed. The contract must include the following:
Two quarters of calculus, one quarter in linear algebra, and a one-year statistics sequence (These requirements can be waived if equivalent courses have already been completed).
Attendance for at least three quarters at the ongoing QMSS seminar series, including presentation of at least one paper.
Completion of at least three quantitative methods courses (excluding those listed above) or at least two of which are outside the student's home department.
A Ph.D. dissertation that is centrally focused on an issue that is appropriate to the QMSS emphasis. The dissertation may make a contribution to methodological theory or may involve an advanced or innovative application.
A dissertation committee that includes at least one QMSS faculty member from outside the student's home department.
Consult the department for additional information.
UCSB/San Diego State University Joint Ph.D. Program
The Departments of Geography at San Diego State University (SDSU) and UCSB have joined resources to offer a distinctive doctoral program. It brings together the faculties and facilities of two outstanding institutions. Students will spend a minimum of one year on each campus and will normally finish their work at SDSU. The joint program will complement but not duplicate the existing Ph.D. program at UCSB, which will continue to function separately from the joint doctoral program. Applicants should see the joint doctoral program coordinator at SDSU.
Return to Top of Page
3A. Physical Geography: Oceanic and Atmospheric Processes
(4) Siegel, Dickey, Michaelson
Not open for credit to students who have completed Geography 3. Lecture,
3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Study of basic processes that determine flows of energy through the atmosphere
and oceans. Distribution and characteristics of major atmospheric and oceanic
features and interactions between them. Interrelationships between human societies
and oceanic and atmospheric variability.
3B. Physical Geography: Land Surfaces Processes
(4) Roberts, Smith, Davis
Not open for credit to students who have completed Geography 3. Lecture,
3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Study of the interactions between water, landforms, soil, and vegetation that
create and modify the surface of the earth. Impacts of physical environment
on human societies and humans as agents of environmental change.
5. Introductory Human Geography
(4) Couclelis, Church, Golledge, Montello, Proctor, SWEENEY
Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Survey of spatial differentiation and organization of human activity and human
interaction with the Earth's biophysical systems. Sample topics include human
spatial decision-making behavior, migration, population growth, economic development,
industrial location, urbanization, and human impacts on the natural environment.
(F,W,S)
9. Water and The West
(4) Loaiciga, Church
Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Conquest, colonization, growth, and decline in the West in light of the use
of water. Past, present, and future of water use in the arid West, with emphasis
on water development, environmental impact, economic sustainability, institutional
reform, and politics.
10. Geography of World's Natural Resources
(4) Loaiciga
Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Survey of soil, water, forest, wildlife, energy, marine, and mineral resources;
management in the United States and the world at large.
12. Maps and Charts
(4) Clarke
Lecture, 3 hours; laboratory, 3 hours.
Map and chart reading and use. Scales, introduction to grid systems, projections.
Sources of map information and practical map measurement.
13. Introduction to Computing in Geography
(2) Michaelson
Lecture, 1 hour; laboratory, 3 hours.
Introduction to geography computing environment. Basic UNIX commands, file structures,
and filters. X-windows, World Wide Web and basic software tools.
Return to Top of Page
102. Introduction to Environmental Optics in Physical Geography
(5) Gautier, Dozier, Roberts
Prerequisites: Geography 3A-B and 115A.
Recommended preparation: high school trigonometry. Lecture, 3 hours; discussion,
2 hours.
Basic physical principles of electromagnetic radiation in the environment and
their application to physical geography and remote sensing. Radiative transfer
in atmosphere, oceans, snow and ice, inland waters, rock, soil, and vegetation.
Spectral signatures in remote sensing. (W)
104. Physical Geography of the World's Oceans
(4) Washburn, Siegel
Prerequisite: Geography 3A. Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Introduction to the processes which control the circulation of the world's oceans.
Topics include: wind driven circulation, thermohaline circulation, water masses,
waves, and tides. (F)
105. Introduction to Spatial Decision Making and Behavior
(4) Golledge
Recommended preparation: Geography 5 or equivalent. Lecture, 3 hours, laboratory,
1 hour.
Gateway for the spatial decision making and behavior field. Includes environmental
cognition; consumer spatial behavior; migration; space-time budgeting; destination
and mode choice; risk and hazard perception; spatial preference. Laboratory
sessions involve locational and city management simulation games. (W)
108. Urban Geography
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Geography 5. Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Introduction to the study of the economic geography of cities and regions and
its relation to planning: urbanization, internal structure of cities, settlement
systems, regional growth and development, migration, transportation, housing.
(F)
110. Introduction to Meteorology
(4) Michaelsen
Prerequisite: Geography 3A. Lecture, 3 hours; discussion 1 hour.
An introduction to the dynamics of the earth's atmosphere. Topics include: energy
exchange mechanisms, energy balance, condensation and precipitation processes,
the dynamics of pressure and wind systems, and the distributions of weather
disturbances. (W)
112. Environmental Hydrology
(4) Loaiciga
Prerequisites: Geography 3A and 3B. Lecture, 3 hours; laboratory, 1 hour.
Nature of water cycle with emphasis on relationships among climatic, physiographic,
surface water, and ground water phenomena. Environmental impact of water development
based on physical hydrologic principles. (F)
114A. Biogeochemistry of the Soil Environment
(4) Chadwick
Prerequisites: Chemistry 1A-B; and, Geography 3B or Geology 2; and, concurrent
enrollment in Geography 114AL.
Same course as Environmental Studies 114A. Lecture, 3 hours.
Introduction to the chemical, hydrological, and biological characteristics of
soils, their global distribution, and their response to management.
114AL. Soil Science Lab
(1) Chadwick
Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in Geography 114A.
Same course as Environmental Studies 114AL. Laboratory, 3 hours.
Field and laboratory projects designed to provide an understanding of soil-landscape
distribution, soil morphology, and the physical and chemical properties that
influence management decisions.
114B. Soil Genesis and Classification
(4) Chadwick
Prerequisites: Geography 114A; and, concurrent enrollment in Geography 114BL.
Same course as Environmental Studies 114B.
Recommended preparation: Geological Sciences 117.
Introduction to the chemical, physical, and biological processes that produce
soil and influence their management. The morphology, genesis, classification,
and global distribution of soil will be emphasized.
114BL. Sampling and Analysis of Soils Lab
(1) Chadwick
Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in Geography 114B.
Same course as Environmental Studies 114BL.
A chance to gain knowledge of soil sampling and laboratory procedures. Labs
cover field site selection, soil description, sampling, laboratory preparation
of soil samples, and selected chemical and physical analyses.
115A. Geographic Photo Interpretation
(4) Estes
Prerequisites: Geography 3A and 3B (may be taken concurrently); and, concurrent
enrollment in Geography 115AL.
Recommended preparation: introductory botany and geology. Lecture, 3 hours.
Interpretation of physical and cultural geographic phenomena as recorded by
orbital and aerial sensing systems with emphasis on conventional aerial photography.
(F)
115AL. Laboratory in Geographic Photo Interpretation
(1) Estes
Prerequisites: Geography 3A and 3B (may be taken concurrently); and, concurrent
enrollment in Geography 115A.
Recommended preparation: introductory botany and geology. Laboratory, 4 hours.
Laboratory analysis of aerial and space photographs. (F)
115B. Geographic Remote Sensing Techniques
(4) Mertes
Prerequisites: a minimum grade of C in Geography 115A-AL; and, concurrent
enrollment in Geography 115BL.
Recommended preparation: Geography 13. Lecture, 3 hours.
A basic understanding of the acquisition and nature of digital image data and
the tools required to process and analyze from multispectral remote sensing
systems. Techniques include color display, contrast enhancement, ratios, and
supervised classification. (W)
115BL. Laboratory in Geographic Remote Sensing Techniques
(1) Mertes
Prerequisites: Geography 115A-AL; concurrent enrollment in Geography 115B.
Recommended preparation: Geography 13. Laboratory, 2 hours.
Laboratory analysis of digital image data from primarily Landsat and SPOT imaging
systems. Interactive manipulation and analysis of images on computers using
a variety of image processing software packages. (W)
115C. Intermediate Geographic Remote Sensing Techniques
(4) Mertes
Prerequisites: a minimum grade of C in Geography 115B-BL; and, concurrent
enrollment in Geography 115CL.
Recommended preparation: Geography 13. Lecture, 3 hours.
Intermediate instruction in the interpretation of environmental phenomena recorded
in digital data formats by remote sensing instruments. Emphasis on learning
the more advanced techniques of image restoration, image enhancement, image
transformation, and both supervised and unsupervised classification. (S)
115CL. Laboratory in Intermediate Geographic Remote Sensing Techniques
(1) Mertes
Prerequisites: Geography 115B-BL; and, concurrent enrollment in Geography
115C.
Recommended preparation: Geography 13. Laboratory, 4 hours.
Interactive computer manipulation of digital data in laboratory exercises designed
to develop skills in advanced techniques of image processing. Both commercial
and public-domain software packages employed. (S)
116. Groundwater Hydrology
(4) Loaiciga
Prerequisites: Geography 3A-B; and, concurrent enrollment in Geography 116L.
Same course as Geological Sciences 173. Lecture, 3 hours.
Analysis of groundwater flow regimes; steady-state and transient systems, and
geologic controls. Basic aquifer properties and yield. Surface-water/groundwater
interaction and fundamentals of groundwater quality. Field trips and experimental
laboratory demonstrations. (W)
116L. Lab for Groundwater Hydrology
(1) Loaiciga
Prerequisites: Geography 3A-B; and, concurrent enrollment in Geography 116.
Same course as Geological Sciences 173L. Laboratory, 2 hours.
Basic groundwater flow experiments; Hele-Shaw flow simulations, hydraulic conductivity
measurement, groundwater quality determination (Ph, DO, EC), and field trips
for base flow measurement. (W)
117B. Research Methods in Human Geography
(4) Montello
Prerequisite: Geography 5.
Instruction in scientific research methods for human geography. Topics include:
scientific method, sampling, experimental and nonexperimental design, qualitative
methods, surveys, census data, modeling, data representation, publication, research
ethics.
118. Production Cartography
(4) CLARKE
Prerequisite: Geography 176A.
Not open for credit to students who have completed Geography 118B. Lecture,
2 hours; laboratory, 4 hours.
Introduction to cartographic requirements analysis, map design, digital cartographic
technology, geographic data compilation, color theory, typography, and digital
cartographic research. Lab work provides students with hands-on experience with
desktop graphics design work stations and advanced cartographic output devices.
(S)
119. Climatic Change and Its Consequences
(4) Michaelsen
Prerequisite: a grade of C or better in Geography 110. Lecture, 3 hours;
laboratory, 1 hour.
Mechanisms and processes which produce climate change. Methods for reconstructing
paleo-climates. Impacts of past climate change on human societies.
120. Landsurface Transport Phenomena in Physical Geography
(4) T. Smith
Prerequisite: Geography 3A and 3B. Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Basic transport phenomena and landsurface forms associated with gravitational
forces and running water. This course covers: the flow of water over landsurfaces;
the erosion, entrainment, and transport of materials; the evolution of fluvial
landsurfaces in response to these processes.
123. Contaminant Hydrology
(4) LOAICIGA
Prerequisite: Geography 3B.
Recommended preparation: introductory calculus, introductory physics, and introductory
chemistry.
Study of physical and chemical processes which govern the transport and fate
of contaminants in sub-surface waters, including soil water, aquifers, and fractured
rocks. (S)
124. Natural Resource Conservation, Modeling, and Management
(4) Proctor
Prerequisite: Geography 3A-B. Lecture 3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Survey of principle theoretical and applied issues surrounding natural resource
utilization, stressing major debates over resource conservation and development,
theory and methods of resource modeling, and principles of resource management.
Contemporary case studies are cited.
128. Analytical and Computer Cartography
(4) CLARKE
Prerequisite: Geography 176A. Lecture, 3 hours; laboratory, 2 hours.
Using computers to create and analyze maps. Coding, storing and representing
geographical data. Accessing spatial data over the Internet. Map data structures
and transformations. Design and programming issues in map production.
133. Tropical Meteorology
(4) Gautier
Prerequisite: a grade of C or better in Geography 110. Lecture, 3 hours;
laboratory, 1 hour.
Description of tropical atmosphere. High and low frequency variability: hurricanes,
monsoon, El Niño, satellite observations, and modeling.
134. Earth System Science
(4) Gautier
Prerequisite: Geography 3A
Recommended preparation: two upper-division physical geography courses. Lecture,
3 hours; laboratory, 2 hours.
Description of various components of earth system: climate and hydrologic systems,
biogeochemical dynamics, ecological dynamics. Human interaction and global change.
Observations and modeling of earth system. (S)
136. Remote Sensing of the Oceans
(4) Washburn
Prerequisite: Geography 104. Lecture, 3 hours; discussion 1 hour.
Survey of physical and biological oceanography from remote sensing perspective.
Discussion of sensor systems, platforms, and methodologies both in current use
and planned. Topics include: remote sensing fundamentals, ocean color, sea surface
temperature measurement, and active remote sensing techniques for oceanography.
138. Remote Sensing of the Atmosphere: An Introduction
(4) Gautier
Prerequisite: Geography 102. Lecture, 3 hours.
Atmospheric physics and dynamics from a remote sensing perspective. Clouds,
precipitation, temperature, and humidity profiles. Weather patterns and systems.
143. Human Migration
(4) Sweeney
Prerequisite: Geography 5.
An introduction to key research areas and issues in the analysis of interregional
and international migration. Emphasis on U.S. interstate and interregional migration,
immigration, and historical patterns of population flows and how they have shaped
the composition of the U.S. population.
144. Forms, Process, and Human Use of Rivers
(4) Loaiciga, Mertes, KELLER
Prerequisites: Mathematics 3A-B or 34A-B.
Same course as Environmental Studies 144.
Lecture, 3 hours; laboratory, 3 hours.
Basic understanding of fluvial (river) hydrology. In-depth evaluation of channel
form and fluvial processes and impact of human use on rivers. (W; offered odd-numbered
years)
146. Introduction to Transportation Systems Analysis
(4) Church
Prerequisites: Geography 5 and Economics 1.
Lecture, 3 hours.
Introduction to the analysis of inter- and intra-city passenger and freight
movements. Geographic and economic concepts are used to develop predictive and
optimal design/maintenance models for the transportation system. Applications
of the models are stressed.
148. California
(4) Staff
Lecture, 3 hours.
The unique landscapes of California and the physical, cultural, and biotic processes
which have produced them. (F)
149. The California Channel Islands
(4) Staff
Prerequisites: MCDB 5B or EEMB 5B or 20; and, Geography 3A-B, or Geological
Sciences 2 or Environmental Studies 2.
Same course as Environmental Studies 111.
Recommended preparation: introductory chemistry and biology. Lecture, 3 hours.
Discussion of biological, geological, ecological, anthropological, and oceanographic
characteristics of the Channel Islands area as well as the management and human
uses of this region. Emphasis on islands and ocean waters off Southern California.
(S)
150. Geography of the United States
(4) Estes
Lecture, 3 hours.
Intensive study of the physical and cultural processes that have shaped and
are shaping the landscapes of the United States. (W)
151. Computational Methods for Watershed Analysis
(5) Mertes
Prerequisites: Geography 176A-B-C; or Geography 115A-B-C; or, Geography 144
or Environmental Studies 144; and Geography 112.
Recommended preparation: Geography 13.
Lecture 3 hours; laboratory 3 hours.
Geographic Information Systems are the framework for implementing the stratification
techniques of watershed analysis. Interactive computer manipulation of digital
data in laboratory exercises will allow quantification and interpretation of
the land use, hydrology, and geomorphology of the watersheds selected for study.
153A. Behavioral Geography
(4) Golledge, Montello
Prerequisite: Geography 5.
Recommended preparation: Geography 105.
Lecture, 3 hours; laboratory 1 hour.
This course examines aspects of the human-environment interface, emphasizing
behavioral processes in spatial contexts including spatial choice and decision
making, consumer behavior, migration and other episodic movements, time budgets,
spatial cognition, and cognitive mapping.
153C. Environmental Perception and Cognition
(4) Couclelis, Golledge, Montello
Prerequisite: Geography 5.
Same course as Psychology 156. Lecture, 3 hours; laboratory 1 hour.
Research and theory on human perception and cognition of environments. Topics
include spatial perception, spatial learning, knowledge structures, navigation
and wayfinding, language and spatial cognition, map use, the spatial skills
of special populations, and other issues.
153D. Spatial Decisions in Retailing
(4) Goodchild, church
Prerequisite: Geography 5.
Recommended preparation: Geography 105. Lecture, 3 hours.
Applications of spatial decision making and behavior to retail systems: site
selection, site evaluation, trade area estimation, and spatial dimensions of
retailing.
153E. The Geography of Everyday Life
(4) Golledge
Prerequisite: Geography 5.
Recommended preparation: Geography 105.
Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
People have a common sense understanding of geographical environments. This
course explores such understandings, formalizes the spatial dimensions and relations
of everyday activities, and relates them to human spatial abilities.
154. Geography of Australia and New Zealand
(4) Golledge
Lecture, 3 hours.
Characteristics and problems of Australia and New Zealand. Discussions of physical,
economic, cultural, and regional problems and potentials.
156. Great Cities of The World
(4) Couclelis
Prerequisite: Geography 5 or 108.
Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Analysis of significant urban development processes and outcomes around the
world. Presentation of major cities representative of different geographic regions,
cultures, and historical circumstances, and examination of their role in the
context of a "Global Society." (S)
157. Jungles, Deserts, and Famine: The Geography of Africa
(4) Proctor
Prerequisite: upper-division standing. Lecture, 3 hours.
Overview of climate, geology, soils, vegetation, human culture, and management
in tropical rainforests, grasslands, and deserts. Physical and cultural processes
leading to famines, expanding deserts, deforestation, war, migration, and other
contemporary African problems.
158. Geography of the California Current
(4) Siegel
Prerequisites: Geography 3A-B.
Recommended preparation: Geography 104. Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Introduction to the marine resources off the California coast. The interplay
of oceanographic, climatic, biogeochemical and geologic factors and the influences
of humankind will be addressed. Topics include: climate, circulation, biogeography,
fisheries, marine mammals, petroleum, pollution, and exploration history.
159. Geography of Europe
(4) Couclelis
Lecture, 3 hours.
A systematic approach to the study of the human and physical resources of Europe.
Special emphasis placed on the spatial aspects of urban, economic, and social
processes. (S)
160. Regional Oceanography Around the World
(4) Dickey
Prerequisite: Geography 104.
Descriptions and comparisons of four distinct ocean regions: Gulf Stream, equatorial
Pacific, Southern Ocean, and Arabian Sea. Examination of various aspects of
the physics, chemistry and biology of the regions and their importance.
162A. Water Pollution
(4) Loaiciga
Prerequisites: concurrent enrollment in Geography 162AL.
Same course as Environmental Studies 162A. Not open for credit to students who
have completed Geography 162.
Human contamination of aquatic environments with emphasis on surface waters,
groundwaters and oceans. Water quality characteristics, modeling and modifications.
Legislative framework and methods of pollution control. (S)
162AL. Laboratory in Water Pollution
(1) Loaiciga
Prerequisites: concurrent enrollment in Geography 162A.
Same course as Environmental Studies 162AL. Not open for credit to students
who have completed Geography 162L.
Field trips to water treatment plants, labs on water sampling and analysis;
PH, DO, BOD, hardness, EC tests. (S)
163. Ocean Circulation
(4) Washburn, Siegel
Prerequisite: Geography 104.
Not open for credit to students who have completed Geography 163A. Lecture,
3 hours.
Examination of the dynamical processes controlling the general circulation of
the ocean. Quantitative methods are used to explain wind and buoyancy-driven
circulation patterns and the ocean's role in global climate. (S; offered in
even-numbered years)
165. Waves and Tides in the Ocean
(4) Siegel, Washburn
Prerequisite: Geography 104.
Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Examination of waves and tides in the ocean. Topics include surface waves, wave
generation, internal waves, tides and tide raising forces. Measurement techniques
are also discussed. (S; offered in even-numbered years)
166. Physical Climatology
(4) Michaelsen
Prerequisite: a grade of C or better in Geography 110.
Recommended preparation: Mathematics 3C or equivalent. Lecture, 3 hours; laboratory,
1 hour.
Study of the processes which create the earths climate. Flows of energy and
material in the atmosphere and interactions with the surface. Large-scale atmospheric
circulation patterns. Spatial and temporal variability. Climate modeling
167. Biogeography: The Study of Plant and Animal Distributions
(4) Davis
Prerequisite: Geography 3B; or a prior course in EEMB or MCDB. Lecture, 3
hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Basic processes governing geographic distribution patterns of biota, including
migration, evolution, isolation, and endemism. Biogeographic regions and their
histories. Emphasis on plants and plant geography. (W; offered in odd-numbered
years)
168. Surface Climate and Water Relations of Soils and Vegetation
(4) Davis
Prerequisite: Geography 102 or 110 or 112 or 114.
Analysis of the sources, sinks, and cycling of water, nutrients and water vapor
between soils, vegetation, and the lower atmosphere. Prediction of regional
vegetation productivity and characteristics on the basis of climate, nutrient
and water availability.
170. Introduction to Vegetation Analysis
(4) Davis
Prerequisites: Geography 3B and 167. Lecture, 3 hours.
Theory and application of natural vegetation classification, ordination, mapping,
and inventorying. Includes application of remote sensing, field sampling techniques
and data analysis. (S; offered in odd-numbered years)
170L. Laboratory in Vegetation Data Analysis
(1) Davis
Prerequisite: Geography 3B and 167; concurrent enrollment in Geography 170.
Laboratory, 1 hour.
Calculation and computation methods as appropriate to Geography 170. Implementation
of computer programs of vegetation analysis. (S; offered in odd-numbered years)
172. Introduction to Geographical Data Analysis
(3) Montello, SWEENEY
Prerequisites: PSTAT 5A; concurrent enrollment in Geography 172L. Lecture,
3 hours.
Introduction to statistical analysis of geographical data. Descriptive and inferential
statistics, including means tests, univariate correlation/regression, and spatial
statistics. (W)
172L. Laboratory in Introductory Geographical Data Analysis
(2) Montello, SWEENEY
Prerequisites: PSTAT 5A; concurrent enrollment in Geography 172. Laboratory,
3 hours.
Introduction to computational methods for statistical analysis of geographical
data. Experience with statistical software. (W)
176A. Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
(4) Clarke
Recommended preparation: Geography 12 and 13.
Lecture, 2 hours; laboratory, 2 hours.
Introduction to modern spatial data processing, development, implementation,
and functions of geographic information systems; relations between GIS and remote
sensing; and applications of geographic information systems to a variety of
environmental issues. (F)
176B. Technical Issues in Geographic Information Systems
(4) Clarke, Goodchild
Prerequisites: a minimum grade of C in Geography 176A and 13; concurrent
enrollment in Geography 176BL. Lecture, 3 hours.
Study of the technical issues underlying Geographic Information Systems, including
coordinate systems and analytic geometry, database models and structures, algorithms
and analytical procedures. (W)
176BL. Lab in Geographic Information Systems I
(1) Clarke, Goodchild
Prerequisites: Geography 176A and 13; concurrent enrollment in Geography
176B. Laboratory, 3 hours.
Laboratory analysis of digital geographic information from physical and social
sources, emphasizing the use of standard geographic information system software
to illustrate techniques of spatial analysis, map digitizing, digital map display,
and decision support.
176C. Application Issues in GIS
(4) Clarke, Goodchild
Prerequisites: a minimum grade of C in Geography 176A and 13; concurrent
enrollment in Geography 176CL. Lecture, 3 hours.
Issues arising in the application of GIS technology in land and resource management,
utilities and municipal government: GIS acquisition, management, staffing and
application. (S)
176CL. Lab in Geographic Information Systems II
(1) Clarke, Goodchild
Prerequisites: Geography 176A and 13; concurrent enrollment in Geography
176C. Laboratory, 3 hours.
Laboratory analysis of digital geographic information from physical and social
sources, culminating in the development of a group project and its presentation.
Use of a range of geographic information system software. Students gain experience
in extracting data from distributed sources.
180. Geography of the Information Society
(4) Couclelis
Prerequisite: Geography 5; upper-division standing.
Recommended preparation: Geography 108.
Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Examination of urban, regional, and global trends in human activity and interaction
caused by the spread of electronic technologies. Topics include land-use change,
telecommuting, the "virtual geographies" of the Internet, issues of democracy
and power, planning in the information age.
181. Spatial Database Modelling for Geographic Phenomena
(4) T. Smith
Prerequisite: Geography 176A. Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Course will examine the application of spatial database techniques for modelling
geographic phenomena. Fundamental conceptual models (relational, object-oriented,
and logical) and physical models will be discussed as well as special techniques
for accessing spatial and temporal data.
184A. Introduction to Cartographic Programming
(4) CLARKE
Prerequisite: Computer Science 12. Lecture, 2 hours; laboratory, 4 hours.
Introduces the student to cartographic programming principles. Instruction will
emphasize structured decomposition, device independence and reusability in cartographic
software. Lab work will provide students with hands-on experience with implementing
a reusable cartographic library.
184B. Advanced Cartographic Programming
(4) CLARKE
Prerequisite: Geography 184A. Lecture, 2 hours; laboratory, 4 hours.
Implementing cartographic systems that make use of graphical user interfaces,
iconic and pictorial programming languages, and object-oriented cartographic
techniques. Students will be expected to implement cartographic systems that
integrate advance geographic algorithms with cartographic user interfaces.
185A. Geography Planning and Policy Making
(4) Couclelis
Prerequisite: Geography 108 or Environmental Studies 116. Lecture, 3 hours;
discussion, 1 hour.
Relevance of geographic knowledge and skills to aspects of planning and policy
making. Includes review of core concepts in decision making, planning theory,
systems analysis, information systems, urban and regional modeling, forecasting,
impact analysis, implementation of decisions, planning policies.
185B. Environmental Issues and Local Decision Making
(4) Church
Prerequisite: Geography 3A or 3B or 5 or Environmental Studies 135A.
Not open for credit to students who have completed Geography 109. Lecture, 3
hours; laboratory, 1 hour.
Introduction to decision making techniques with regard to land use allocation
and planning. Special emphasis on addressing conflicts involving environmental
concerns and multiple objectives. Examples involving water resources development,
corridor location (rights-of-way, e.g., transmission lines), preservation of
endangered species, disposal of solid waste, and power plant siting are presented.
(S)
185C. Urban and Regional Modeling and Planning
(4) Sweeney
Prerequisite: Geography 108. Lecture, 3 hours; laboratory, 1 hour.
Introduction to the use of models of cities and regions in planning and policy
analysis. Topics include population projection models, economic base, input-output
modeling, and regional econometric models. Emphasis on understanding the theoretical
basis, strengths, and weaknesses of each model; and matching appropriate models
to policy applications. (F; offered in odd-numbered years)
185D. Urban and Environmental System Analysis
(4) Church
Prerequisite: Geography 3A or 3B or 108.
Not open for credit to students who have completed Geography 192.
Recommended preparation: Mathematics 3A or 34A. Lecture, 3 hours.
Applications of operations research techniques and decision analysis in structuring
approaches to urban environmental problems. Examples are drawn from problems
in facility location, regional models, transportation and other networks, utility
corridors and similar problems.
187. The Idea of Nature
(4) Proctor
Prerequisite: Geography 5 or Environmental Studies 1 or 3.
Same course as Environmental Studies 187.
Examination of recent western perspectives on the biophysical realm as expressed
through science and popular culture. Emphasis on major theoretical disputes
and possibilities for reconceptualizing nature.
188. The Ethics of Human-Environment Relations
(4) Proctor
Prerequisite: Geography 5 or Environmental Studies 1 or 3.
Same course as Environmental Studies 188.
Survey of contemporary environmental ethics, focusing on both philosophical
and applied issues. Topics include anthropocentrism and its alternatives, the
role of science and aesthetics, multicultural perspectives and the problem of
relativism, and the conflict between radical and reformist environmentalism.
190. Location Theory and Modeling
(4) Church
Prerequisite: Geography 5 or 108.
Recommended preparation: Mathematics 3A or 34A. Lecture, 3 hours.
A survey of the basic types of location problems encountered in the modern world
and techniques used by analysts in government and industry to solve such problems.
Relationships to Classic Location Theory and Models will be stressed. Students
will have the opportunity to experiment with actual location models on a computer.
191. Introduction to Optimization Models for Geographic Problems
(4) Church
Prerequisites: Mathematics 3A or 34A; upper-division standing.
An introduction to "Operations Research" methods that are used in the analysis
of geographic problems, including linear programming, network, integer programming,
and dynamic programming. Example problems involving spatial and temporal decision
making are emphasized. (W; offered in even-numbered years)
191L. Laboratory in Optimization Methods for Geographic Problems
(1) Church
Prerequisite: Geography 191 (may be taken concurrently). Laboratory, 1 hour.
Computer laboratory utilizing special optimization programs and computer graphics
devices. (W; offered in even-numbered years)
193. Internship in Geography
(1-4) Staff
Prerequisites: upper-division standing in geography; consent of department.
Students must have an overall grade-point average of 3.0. May be repeated for
credit to a maximum of 12 units but only 4 units may count toward the major.
Field, 3-12 hours.
Practical experience and research on geographical problems under faculty direction
as interns with local, state, and federal agencies, with private research and
development firms, and with other business organizations. Periodic and final
reports required. (F,W,S)
195. Selected Problems in Geography
(2-4) Staff
Prerequisite: upper-division standing in geography.
May be repeated once for credit. Lecture, 2-4 hours.
Investigation of selected geographic factors of major significance to human
environmental interactions. Scope and emphasis variable each time offered.
198. Readings in Geography
(1-2) Staff
Prerequisites: upper-division standing; completion of at least two upper-division
courses in geography; consent of instructor.
Students must have a minimum 3.0 grade-point average. May be repeated to a maximum
of 10 units; no more than 5 may be applied to the major. Students are limited
to 5 units per quarter and 30 units total in all 98/99/198/199/199RA courses
combined.
Designed to provide in-depth directed inquiry into a topic of interest to the
student. (F,W,S)
199. Independent Studies
(1-5) Staff
Prerequisites: upper-division standing; completion of at least two upper-division
courses in geography; consent of instructor.
Students must have a minimum 3.0 grade-point average. May be repeated to a maximum
of 10 units; no more than 5 may be applied to the major. Students are limited
to 5 units per quarter and 30 units total in all 98/99/198/199/199RA courses
combined. GEOG 199 is considered an honors course and is required for those
seeking distinction in the major.
Selected research under the direction of a faculty member. (F,W,S)
199RA. Independent Research Assistance in Geography
(1-5) Staff
Prerequisites: upper-division standing; completion of at least two upper-division
courses in geography; consent of instructor.
Students must have a minimum 3.0 grade-point average. May be repeated to a maximum
of 10 units; no more than 5 may be applied to the major. Students are limited
to 5 units per quarter and 30 units total in all 98/99/198/199/199RA courses
combined.
Selected research under the direction of a faculty member.
Return to Top of Page
Please note: the letters in parentheses at the end of graduate course descriptions correspond to the following key: (S)Systematics; (T)-Techniques.
200A. Introduction to Geographic Research
(2) Staff
Required of all geography graduate students. Normally taken in fall quarter
of entering academic year. Lecture, 2 hours.
Presentation and discussion by department faculty of research areas in the department.
Systematic and technique areas of emphasis will be presented, as well as department
facilities and research collaborations with other institutions. (ST)
200B. Introduction to Geographic Research
(4) Staff
Prerequisites: Geography 200A or approval of Graduate Committee.
Required of all geography graduate students. Normally taken in winter quarter
of entering academic year. Seminar, 3 hours.
Fundamental issues of research in geography and related areas: the geographic
perspective, scientific reading/writing and problem formulation, research techniques,
the scientific enterprise, and science and society. (ST)
200C. Introduction to Geographic Research
(2) Staff
Prerequisites: Geography 200A or approval of Graduate Committee; and Geography
200B.
Required of all geography graduate students. Normally taken in spring quarter
of entering academic year. Seminar, 2 hours; tutorial, 1 hour.
Directed readings and research leading to a draft thesis proposal (MA students)
or a systematic literature review in perspective dissertation area (Ph.D. students);
participation in seminars discussing ongoing graduate research. (ST)
201. Seminar in Geography
(2) Staff
Required of all geography graduate students every quarter offered. Seminar,
3 hours.
A series of lectures and seminars on diverse research topics in human and physical
geography, by visiting speakers or department faculty.
202A. Remote Sensing and Environmental Optics
(5) Gautier, Dozier
Prerequisites: Geography 115A. Lecture, 3 hours; laboratory 3 hours.
Principles of radiation emission; radiative transfer equation and some solution
methods; surface interactions; instrumentation; applications to remote sensing
and energy budgets in atmosphere, ocean, and other media.
202B. Seminar in Environmental Optics
(4) Gautier, Dozier
Prerequisite: Geography 202A. Seminar, 3 hours.
Seminar on electromagnetic radiation in the environment and applications to
physical geography and remote sensing. Computational methods.
203. Seminar in Physical Geography
(4) Dozier
Prerequisites: an upper-division course in physical geography and consent
of instructor. Seminar, 3 hours.
Survey of current literature and concepts in physical geography. (S)
205. Seminar in Environmental Geography
(2-4) Proctor
Lecture, 3 hours.
Intensive reading and discussion on current topics in environmental geography.
Sample areas of focus include environmental philosophy, human ideas of nature,
and human-induced environmental change.
207. Biogeochemistry of the Soil Environment
(4) Chadwick
Prerequisites: Chemistry 1A-B; and, Geography 3B or Geology 2; concurrent
enrollment in Geography 207L; graduate standing.
Introduction to the chemical, hydrological, and biological characteristics of
soils, their global distribution and their response to management.
207L. Soil Science Lab
(1) Chadwick
Prerequisites: Chemistry 1A-B; and, Geography 3B or Geology 2; concurrent
enrollment in Geography 207; graduate standing.
Field and laboratory projects designed to provide an understanding of soil-landscape
distribution, soil morphology, and the physical and chemical properties that
influence management decisions.
208. Water Resource Systems Planning and Management
(4) Church, Loaiciga
Lecture, 3 hours.
Introduction to techniques used in planning and management of water quantity
and quality problems. Topics include river basin management of water quality,
reservoir system operation for multipurpose use, and dealing with drought conditions.
(S)
209. Pedology
(4) Chadwick
Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in Geography 209L. Lecture, 3 hours.
A process-based quantitative study of soil development as driving variables
of climate, biota, lithology, topography and geologic time. Emphasis on interactions
among soil and other earth system components: atmosphere, lithosphere, biosphere,
hydrosphere. (S)
209L. Pedology Lab
(1) Chadwick
Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in Geography 209. Laboratory, 3 hours.
Independent projects that include field site selection, soil description, sampling,
laboratory preparation of soil samples, and chemical and physical analysis designed
to resolve specific hypotheses.
210. Analytical Methods for Environmental Problem Solving
(4) Siegel, MICHAELSEN
Prerequisite: graduate standing.
Same course as ESM 250.
Introduction of analytical methods used to solve environmental problems. Topics
include: calculus, linear algebra, vector analysis, and differential equations.
Emphasis is placed on proper documentation of problem statements and solutions.
(S)
213. Digital Techniques in Remote Sensing
(4) Mertes
Prerequisites: Geography 115B-BL and 172-172L; concurrent enrollment in Geography
213L. Seminar, 3 hours.
Intermediate instruction in the interpretation of environmental phenomena recorded
in digital data formats by remote sensing instruments. Emphasis is on learning
the more advanced techniques of image restoration, image enhancement, image
transformation, and both supervised and unsupervised classification. (T)
213L. Laboratory in Digital Techniques in Remote Sensing
(1) Mertes
Prerequisites: Geography 115B-BL and 172-172L; concurrent enrollment in Geography
213. Laboratory, 4 hours.
Interactive computer manipulation of digital data in laboratory exercises designed
to develop skills in advanced techniques of image processing. Both commercial
and public-domain software packages employed. Term project applying digital
image processing skills to scientific problem. (T)
214A. Advanced Remote Sensing: Optical
(5) Roberts
Prerequisite: Geography 213. Lecture, 3 hours, laboratory, 2 hours.
Optical remote sensing (Vis/NIR, Thermal). Discussion of advanced sensors, techniques,
modeling and applications in each spectral region. Includes a set of computer-based
laboratory exercises. A final paper and oral presentation of a research project
using remote sensing is required.
214B. Advanced Remote Sensing: Microwave
(5) Roberts
Prerequisite: Geography 213. Lecture, 3 hours, laboratory, 2 hours.
Microwave remote sensing (Active and Passive). Discussion of advanced sensors,
techniques, modeling and applications in the microwave. Includes a set of computer-based
laboratory exercises. A final paper and oral presentation of a research project
using remote sensing is required.
215. Seminar in Remote Sensing
(2-4) Estes
Prerequisite: Geography 115B.
May be repeated more than once with changes in content and methods examined.
Seminar, 2-3 hours.
Advanced concepts in multispectral, multidate, manual, and automated remote
sensing techniques. (ST)
216S. Remote Sensing Software
(4) Dozier
Prerequisite: Geography 103. Lecture, 3 hours.
Analysis and development of software systems for remote sensing data. (T)
217. Western United States Field Seminar
(4) Estes, Davis, Michaelsen
Prerequisite: graduate standing.
Study of the physical and cultural geography of the Western United States. Field
study may include visits to federal, state, academic, and industrial facilities;
National and State Parks, and monuments. Students prepare and present background
material as part of course.
219. Field Seminar in Geography
(1-4) Staff
Prerequisites: graduate standing.
May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 8 units. Field, 3 hours.
Field trips of one day or more, organized as opportune. Appropriate report required
for each trip. Units commensurate with time and effort spent participating in
field excursions and subsequent report preparation. (T)
220. Seminar in Regional Analysis
(4) Couclelis
Prerequisites: Geography 172-172L.
Seminar, 4 hours.
Study of current research in regional analysis. The topic will differ each year
and will be announced in advance. (S)
221. Research Methods in Human Geography
(4) Montello
Prerequisites: Geography 200A-B-C (may be taken concurrently). Lecture, 3
hours; laboratory, 1 hour.
Logic and techniques of conducting empirical research in human geography. Covers
hypothesis formulation, literature sources, data collection (including surveys),
experimental and non-experimental design, data analysis, and ethical treatment
of human subjects. (S; alternate years)
222. Spatial Decision Making
(4) T. Smith
Prerequisite: Geography 105. Seminar, 3 hours.
Study of current theories and empirical evidence concerning decision making
in a spatial context by individuals, firms, and government agencies. (S)
224. Methods of Regional Analysis
(3) Staff
Prerequisites: Geography 108 and 185B; concurrent enrollment in Geography
224L.
Advanced seminar in methods of regional economic and population analysis. The
population module covers the theory and construction of the multi-regional life
table and projection model. The economic module reviews input-output models,
regional econometric models, and CGE models. Other topics include data availability,
incomplete data analysis, and demo-economic models. (S)
224L. Laboratory in Methods of Regional Analysis
(1) Staff
Prerequisites: Geography 108 and 185B; concurrent enrollment in Geography
224.
Methods from Geography 224 are used to analyze the population and economy of
California. Use of IMPLAN for regional input-output analysis and various programs
in SAS to carry out the multi-regional life table and projection model calculations.
(S)
225. Urban Problems
(4) Golledge, Couclelis
Recommended preparation: Geography 105 and 108.
Detailed studies of selected social, economic, and physical problems related
to modern cities. (S)
227. Scientific Reasoning in Geography
(4) Couclelis, Golledge
Prerequisites: graduate standing.
Discussion of the application of reasoning principles from various philosophies
of science and social science to relevant problems in geography. (T)
229. Environmental Perception and Cognition
(4) Golledge, Couclelis, Montello
Prerequisites: graduate standing.
Theories and methods related to acquiring, representing, and analyzing knowledge
of complex large-scale environments. (ST)
230. Behavioral Geography
(4) Golledge, Couclelis
Recommended preparation: Geography 105 and 108.
Survey of behavioral approaches in a variety of areas of geography. (S)
231. Cognitive Issues in Geographic Information Science
(4) Couclelis, Montello
Prerequisite: graduate standing.
Theory and research on cognitive issues in geographic information science. Perception,
memory, reasoning, communication, human factors in digital worlds. (S)
232. Cartographic Transformations
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Mathematics 3A or 34A.
Classical map projections; cartograms; empirical "rubber sheeting;" bi-dimensional
regression. The geometry of geography; geodesics; geographical circles; the
distortion tensor; nonsymmetric distances. (ST)
233. Tropical Meteorology
(4) Gautier
Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
Description of tropical atmosphere. High to low frequency variability: monsoon,
hurricanes, El Niño, satellite observations, and modeling. (S)
234. Seminar in Cartography
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Geography 118A or 127. Seminar, 4 hours.
Study and critique of advanced research work in cartography. Topic will vary
from year to year. (T)
235. Earth Radiation Budget and Clouds
(4) Gautier
Prerequisite: Geography 102 or 202. Lecture, 3 hours.
Earth radiation balance-greenhouse effect-cloud/radiation interaction. Radiative/convective
climate models. ERB measurements from space. (S)
236. Remote Sensing of the Oceans
(4) Washburn
Prerequisite: Geography 104.
Survey of physical and biological oceanography from remote-sensing perspective.
Discussion of sensor systems, platforms, and methodologies both in current use
and planned. Topics include: space-time variability of ocean properties, primary
productivity, ocean waves, and circulation.
237. El Niño: Atmosphere Ocean Interactions
(4) Gautier
Recommended preparation: course in tropical meteorology.
Low frequency oscillations of atmosphere and ocean in tropical regions. Atmosphere
ocean interactions. El Niño observations and modeling. (S)
238. Advanced Remote Sensing of the Atmosphere
(4) Gautier
Recommended preparation: course in rediative transfer.
Advanced readings in research on theory and models of radiative transfer as
bases for the remote sensing of the atmosphere and meteorological forecast.
239. Earth System Science
(4) Gautier
Description of various components of earth system: climate and hydraulic systems,
biogeochemical dynamics and ecological dynamics. Observations and modeling of
earth systems.
242A. Advanced Snow Hydrology
(4) Dozier
Prerequisites: Geography 172-172L.
Nature of snow, snow metamorphism, snow surface energy exchange, snowmelt runoff,
and avalanche hazards. Analysis through field measurements, remote sensing,
and computer simulation. One two-day field trip. (S)
242B. Field Seminar in Snow Science
(4) Dozier
Prerequisite: Geography 242A. Seminar, 2 hours; field, 2 hours; one field
trip required.
Seminar and field analysis on snow metamorphism, snow chemistry, snowmelt runoff,
energy exchange, remote sensing, and electromagnetic properties. (TS)
243. Migration Models
(4) Sweeney
Recommended preparation: matrix algebra, introductory microeconomics. Seminar,
3 hours.
An advanced seminar on demographic and economic models of human migration. Consideration
of both macro-scale models including spatial interaction and Markov models of
migration, and micro-scale models that consider the migration decision from
an individual's or family perspective.
245. Advanced Groundwater Analysis
(4) Loaiciga
Lecture, 3 hours; laboratory, 1 hour.
Steady and nonsteady groundwater flow motion in saturated and unsaturated porous
media; tensorial analysis of hydraulic conductivity; hydrodynamic dispersion
and groundwater pollution; sea water/groundwater interfacing; field and laboratory
demonstrations of groundwater processes; and computer simulation of groundwater
systems. (S)
246. Earth System Science: The Hydrologic Cycle
(5) Loaiciga
Prerequisites: Mathematics 5C, and Geography 110, 112, and 172. Lecture,
3 hours; Laboratory, 2 hours.
The study of hydrologic processes on scales from local to global and the land-atmosphere-ocean
interactions affecting the hydrologic cycle. Advanced concepts in hydrologic
model development and testing will be presented. (W; offered in odd-numbered
years)
247. Earth System Science: Biophysical and Biogeochemical Processes
(4) Davis, Siegal
Prerequisites: Mathematics 5C or Geography 167 or EEMB 145A. Lecture, 3 hours;
discussion, 1 hour.
Distribution and dynamics of global ecosystems and the biogeochemical cycling
of elemental materials. Focus on mapping, monitoring, and modeling of community
composition and ecosystem processes. An emphasis is placed on how the global
biosphere interacts with the atmosphere and hydrosphere.
248. Earth System Science: Energy and Radiation
(5) Gautier
Prerequisites: Mathematics 5C and Geography 102. Lecture, 3 hours; laboratory,
2 hours.
Processes affecting radiation and energy balance at the top of the atmosphere,
within the atmosphere, and at the Earth's surface. This will include the greenhouse
effect and the role of clouds, aerosols, and surface processes on climate. Radiative
and radiative-convective modeling aspects will be presented and further developed
in laboratory with the use of simplified models.
249. Earth System Science: Ocean-Atmosphere Dynamics
(4) Michaelsen
Prerequisites: Mathematics 5C, and Geography 104 and 110. Lecture, 3 hours;
discussion, 1 hour.
The basic equations of motion for rotating fluids will be presented and modified
to explain large-scale ocean and atmosphere motions. Topics will include: the
geostrophic approximation; conservation of potential vorticity; Ekman transport
and Ekman pumping; the quasi-geostrophic approximation; baroclinic instability;
Rossby waves and Kelvin waves.
250. Environmental Soil Chemistry
(4) Chadwick
Prerequisite: Chemistry 1A-B-C; and Geography 114A. Lecture, 3 hours.
The basics of chemical bonding theory, providing a basis for understanding acid
base equitable and buffering in soils as well as basic redox processes. Reactions
that affect the availability of nutrient and pollutant elements in soils.
251. Computational Methods for Watershed Analysis
(5) Mertes
Prerequisites: Geography 176A-B-C; or, Geography 115A-B-C; or, Geography
144 or Environmental Studies 144, and Geography 112.
Geographic Information Systems are the framework for implementing the stratification
techniques of watershed analysis. Interactive computer manipulation of digital
data in laboratory exercises will allow quantification and interpretation of
the land use, hydrology, and geomorphology of the watersheds selected for study.
252. Clouds: Formation and Effects
(4) Gautier
Prerequisites: Geography 102.
What are clouds? How do they form and what is their effects on atmospheric radiation
budget, dynamics, and on air-sea interactions?
253. Global Warming: Causes and Consequences
(4) Gautier
Prerequisite: Geography 134.
Radiative processes involved in global warming; carbon dioxide increase and
uptake; role of clouds, oceans and biosphere; consequences: sea level changes,
hydrological cycle intensification, etc.
256. Molecular Photosynthesis and Light in Aquatic Systems
(3) Staff
Prerequisite: Geography 263.
A lecture course in introduce graduate students to the molecular processes of
photosynthesis and the bio-optics of underwater light fields. (S)
261. Ocean Optics
(4) Dickey, Siegel
Lecture, 3 hours.
An examination of the optical properties and radiative transfers in natural
waters. Applications discussed include modeling of solar radiation penetration,
relectance and transmittance at the air-sea interface, and ocean color remote
sensing.
262. Upper Ocean Physical Processes
(4) Seigal, Washburn
Prerequisite: Geography 263.
May be repeated for credit with changes in content and methods.
Detailed studies of upper ocean dynamics and physical processes. Topics may
include mesoscale dynamics, mixed layer modeling, radiative transfer, turbulent
mixing processes, and internal waves. (W)
263. Introduction to Physical Oceanography
(4) Dickey, Siegel, Washburn
Lecture, 3 hours.
A graduate-level introduction to physical oceanography. Topics discussed include:
properties of sea water, derivation and application of the equations of motion
for a rotating planet, and the dynamics of wind- and buoyancy-driven general
circulation. (S)
264. Seminar in Oceanography
(4) Siegel, Washburn
Prerequisites: Geography 163 or 263; and Geography 265.
Graduate seminar in physical, optical, and biological oceanography. (S)
265. Ocean Waves, Tides and Mixing Dynamics
(4) Dickey, Siegel, Washburn
Lecture, 3 hours.
Examination of waves, tides, and turbulent processes in the ocean. Topics include
surface waves, tidal flows, internal waves, small scale mixing processes, near-surface
mixed layers, and bottom boundary layers. Instrumentation and sampling techniques
will also be discussed. (S)
266. Introduction to Atmospheric Sciences
(4) Michaelsen
Prerequisite: graduate standing.
Same course as ESM 229. Lecture, 3 hours; seminar, 1 hour.
Fundamentals in atmospheric processes that are important for understanding the
role of the atmosphere in earth's climate and biogeochemistry. Graduate-level
introduction to radiation, dynamics, clouds, chemistry, and how they interact.
267. Biogeography: The Study of Plant and Animal Distributions
(4) Davis
Prerequisite: Geography 167 or EEMB 103A-B or 140 or Botany 146 or EEMB 113A.
Seminar, 3 hours.
Theory and methods of biogeographical research. Emphasis on plants and plant
geography. Seminar includes presentation of classic papers as well as current
research work. Research paper required. (S)
268. Seminar in Climatology
(4) Michaelsen, Gautier
Prerequisite: graduate standing.
Selected topics in current research on theoretical and empirical modeling of
climate change and climate variability. (S)
269. Dynamic Meteorology
(4) Michaelsen
Prerequisites: Mathematics 3C; and Geography 110. Lecture, 3 hours; discussion,
1 hour.
Application of basic equations of fluid motion to flows on a rotating sphere.
Emphasis on scaling techniques appropriate for describing and predicting large-scale
atmospheric motion. Additional topics include numerical models, atmospheric
waves, instability, and the mechanics of the general circulation. (S)
270. Seminar in Spatial Ecology
(3) Davis, Dozier, Goodchild, Siegel
Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
Selected advanced topics in spatial analytic theory and methods for the characterization
and analysis of ecological systems. Course may be repeated for credit.
271. Numerical Aspects of Geographic Modeling
(4) Siegel
Prerequisite: Geography 210. Lecture, 3 hours.
Design and implementations of grid-based numerical models for addressing the
dynamics of geographic systems. Finite difference and finite element methods
will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on the development of geographically
consistent models. (S)
272. Advanced Topics in Biogeography
(4) Davis
Prerequisite: Geography 167 or ESM 201.
Special topics of current importance in biogeography and conservation. Course
content will vary. Information on upcoming course content can be obtained from
the instructor or in the department office.
273. Natural Vegetation Classification, Inventory, and Dynamics
(4) Davis
Prerequisites: Geography 167, 172 and 172L.
Problems in analysis of natural vegetation, including sampling and measurement,
classification, ordination, gradient analysis and dynamic
modeling. (TS)
274. Introduction to Geographical Data Analysis
(3) Michaelsen
Prerequisites: Geography 172, 172L, and 210; concurrent enrollment in Geography
274L.
Introduction to the analysis of spatial data. Measures of spatial association,
multivariate regression applied to spatial data. Geostatistical techniques for
modeling and interpolating spatial data.
274L. Laboratory in Introductory Geographical Data Analysis
(2) Michaelsen
Prerequisites: Geography 172-172L; concurrent enrollment in Geography 274.
Computational techniques for analyzing multivariate spatial data. Methods modifying
existing statistical and mathematical software packages to develop spatial analysis
routines.
275. Seminar in Geographical Information Systems
(4) Goodchild, T. Smith
Study of current trends in geographically oriented information processing systems.
(ST)
276A Advanced Spatial Data Analysis
(3) Staff
Prerequisites: Geography 274-274L; concurrent enrollment in Geography 276AL.
Lecture, 3 hours.
Analysis of spatial data. Spatial autocorrelation, autoregressive and moving
average models, regression models applied to spatial problems, point processes.
276AL. Advanced Laboratory in Spatial Data Analysis
(2) Staff
Prerequisites: Geography 274-274L; concurrent enrollment in Geography 276A.
Design and implementation of computational techniques for analyzing spatial
data.
276B. Geographical Time Series Analysis
(3) Washburn
Prerequisites: Geography 172; concurrent enrollment in Geography 276BL.
Introduction to time series analysis in geography. Topics will include spatial
and temporal sampling, fast fourier transform techniques, linear systems, and
digital filtering.
276C. Special Topics in Geographical Data Analysis
(3) Staff
Prerequisite: consent of instructor; concurrent enrollment in Geography 276CL.
Advanced topics in the analysis of spatial and temporal data. May be repeated
for credit.
276CL. Special Topics Laboratory
(2) Staff
Prerequisites: consent of instructor; concurrent enrollment in Geography
276C.
Laboratory in advanced graphic data analysis. May be repeated for credit.
277. Spatial Environmental Modeling
(4) Roberts, Davis
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
May be repeated for credit provided topics are different.
Seminar covering topics in spatial environmental modeling. Integrates techniques
such as remote sensing and GIS into modeling of spatial processes. Topics include
biogeochemical cycles, hydrology, species distribution and habitat disturbance.
284A. Introduction to Cartographic Programming
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Computer Science 12.
An introduction to cartographic data structures, algorithms, and programming
principles. Instruction will emphasize structured decomposition device independence
and reusability in cartographic software. Lab work will provide students with
hands-on experience with implementing a reusable cartographic library. (T)
284B. Advanced Cartographic Programming
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Geography 284A.
Design and implementation of cartographic systems using graphical user interfaces,
iconic and pictorial programming languages, and object-oriented cartographic
techniques. Students will be expected to create cartographic applications software
by integrating advanced geographic algorithms with cartographic user interfaces.
(T)
285. Information Systems for the Study of Global Change
(4) Dozier
Prerequisites: Geography 172-172L and Geography 176A-AL. Lecture, 2 hours;
seminar, 2 hours.
Design, implementation, and status of distributed information systems used in
global change research.
286. Human-Induced Environmental Change
(2-4) Proctor
Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 2 hours.
Examination of anthropological environmental change at the global, regional,
and local levels. Emphasis on identifying major proximate and root causes, and
assessing recent human impacts relative to long-term environmental change.
287. The Idea of Nature
(2-4) Proctor
Examination of recent western perspectives on the biophysical realm as expressed
through science and popular culture. Emphasis on major theoretical disputes
and possibilities for reconceptualizing nature.
288. Special Topics in Geography
(4) Golledge
Prerequisite: graduate standing.
Special topics in geography will be defined and offered as demand requires,
or as faculty develop new interests or wish to examine topics not otherwise
covered in existing course offerings.
289. The Ethics of Human-Environment Relations
(2-4) Proctor
Prerequisite: graduate standing. Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 2 hours.
Survey of contemporary environmental ethics, focusing on both philosophical
and applied issues. Topics include: anthropocentrism and its alternatives, the
role of science and aesthetics, multicultural perspectives and the problem of
relativism, and the conflict between radical and reformist environmentalism.
(W; offered in even-numbered years)
290. Urban and Environmental Systems Analysis
(4) Church
Prerequisite: Geography 185B or Economics 1.
Applications of operations research techniques and decision analysis in structuring
approaches to urban and environmental problems. Examples are drawn from problems
in facility location, regional models, transportation and other networks, utility
corridors, and similar problems. (ST)
291. Optimization Models for Geographic Problems
(4) Church
Prerequisite: Mathematics 3A or 5A or 34A.
Survey of advanced optimization techniques with applications to geographical
problems. Methods include advanced topics in linear programming, dynamic programming,
integer programming, networks, and queuing. (T)
292. Mathematical Models in Physical Geography
(4) Staff
Prerequisites: Geography 172-172L; one upper-division physical geography
course. Seminar, 3 hours.
Mathematical models of water and energy flows through the atmosphere, in stream
channels, on and in soils and vegetation. (ST)
293. Mathematical Models in Human Geography
(4) Couclelis
Seminar, 3 hours.
Overview of current modeling issues in behavioral geography and urban and regional
analysis and planning, an emphasis on work by members of the department faculty
and occasionally visitors. (ST)
294. Advanced Topics in Location and Transportation Systems
(4) Church
Prerequisite: Geography 190 or 191 or 291.
May be repeated for credit with changes in content, methods, and applications
areas examined.
Study of current research and application of systems models in the analysis,
design, operation, and scheduling of transport and location
problems. (S)
295. Advanced Topics in Pedology
(4) Chadwick
Prerequisite: Geography 209.
Intensive reading and discussions of current topics in soil-geomorphology, soil-geochemistry,
and quantitative modeling of soil processes.
295A. Soils and Ecosystems
(3) Chadwick, Schimel
Prerequisite: graduate standing.
Same course as EEMB 295A.
Development of the links between the biological and inorganic components of
the soil. Water availability and nutrients control plant and soil microbial
communities. These in turn affect the soil by enhancing weathering and modifying
the local chemical environment.
500. Teaching Assistant Training
(4) Golledge
May be repeated for credit. Seminar, 2 hours; laboratory, 1 hour; preparation,
1 hour.
Compulsory course for new teaching assistants to examine geographic teaching
methods. Emphasis on use of special equipment and facilities in the department,
teaching aids, examination preparation and grading, student advising, and special
problems.
595. Seminar in Marine Science
(2) Dickey, Aldredge
A series of lectures and seminars on diverse research topics in marine science.
596. Directed Reading and Research
(2-8) Staff
Prerequisites: consent of instructor and department chair.
No more than half the graduate units necessary for the master's degree may be
taken in Geography 596. Seminar, 2-8 hours.
A written proposal for each tutorial must be approved by the department.
597. Individual Study for Ph.D. Examinations
(1-12) Staff
Prerequisites: consent of instructor and graduate advisor.
No unit credit allowed toward advanced degree. S/U grade. Maximum of 12 units
per quarter; enrollment limited to 24 units total. Variable hours.
Instructor should be student's major professor or chair of the doctoral committee.
598. Master's Thesis Research and Preparation
(1-12) Staf
Prerequisites: consent of instructor and graduate advisor.
No unit credit allowed toward master's degree.
S/U grading. Preparation, 1-6 hours.
Research toward and writing of thesis.
599. Ph.D. Dissertation Research and Preparation
(1-12) Staff
Prerequisites: consent of instructor and graduate advisor. No unit credit
allowed toward Ph.D. degree. S/U grading. Preparation, 1-6 hours.
Research toward and writing of dissertation. Instructor should be chair of student's
doctoral committee.
Return to Top of Page
UCSB Home
| Office of the Registrar
| No Frames Version
Catalog Introduction | Past
Catalogs | Other UC Catalogs
0