Geography at Algoma University

This program is ideal for students interested in geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, climate change, environmental sustainability, research, and urban and regional development. Algoma University program is divided into four major thematic areas: physical geography, human geography, human-environmental geography, and geomatics. Students can study up to two of these areas to further enhance the quality of their degree:

Physical geography explores the ever-changing surface of the earth and the physical processes that cause these changes. Students will develop the ability to identify critical processes in landscape form and structure, earth-building and the formation of rocks, weathering and mass movement, coastal/shoreline environments, and much more.

Human geography examines the relationship people have with the earth and how people are distributed on the earth. It examines people interact with each other, why people interact this way. Students will explore how and why the first known cities formed; how culture is spread and stagnated by barriers; and how different regions in the world function culturally, socially, environmentally, and economically.

Human-environmental geography focus on the impact humans have on the environment through activities like urban sprawl and globalization, and will learn how to develop more sustainable practices. Students will develop an understanding of global and environmental change, impact assessments, and natural resource management. Students will study the Great Lakes and their cultural, environmental, and economic importance to humans.

Geomatics is the discipline of gathering, storing, processing, and delivering geographic information, or spatially referenced information. In this program, students will be introduced to the world of cartography, GIS, remote sensing of the environment, and air photo interpretation.