Physical Geography Streams

As a student in the Physical Geography program you will choose from one of the following three streams. You can also choose to pursue professional accreditation as a Professional Geoscientist or Professional Agrologist* as part of completing this program. Please see our professional accreditation page for details on the accreditation process.

Biogeophysical Science

Offering a range of earth system science courses with a focus on earth system dynamics, this stream targets the courses needed for registration as a Professional Agrologist*.

Geoscience

The Geoscience stream investigates earth surface processes and targets the academic requirements for registration as a Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo.) (Environmental Geoscience) within Canada.

Geosystems & GIScience

This stream focuses on the linkages between earth systems science and spatial information science. It also covers the requirements for the Certificate in Geographic Information Science.

*As of September 2022, all agrology services within BC must be provided by a registered professional agrologist.

Physical Geography Subdisciplines and Courses

Biogeography

Biogeography centres on the factors that control the distribution and functioning of the world’s ecosystems and the organisms of which they are made.

GEOG 215 Biogeography
GEOG 315 World Ecosystems
GEOG 316 Global Biogeochemical and Water Cycles

Climate Science

Climate Science is the study of the envelope of air that surrounds the Earth and is based on observation, description and explanation of the physical properties and processes of the atmosphere.

GEOG 104 Climate Change, Water and Society
GEOG 214 Weather and Climate
GEOG 314 The Climate System
GEOG 414 Climate Change

Geomorphology

Geomorphology is the scientific study of earth surface landforms and the processes that have led to their formation.

GEOG 213 Introduction to Geomorphology
GEOG 313 River Geomorphology
GEOG 412 Glacial Processes and Environments

10 Reasons why Geomorphology is important (PDF)

Hydrology

Hydrology is the science of water, its distribution, circulation, physical and chemical properties, and interaction with the environment.

GEOG 311 Hydrology
GEOG 411 Advanced Hydrology
GEOG 418 Ecohydrology

Soil Science

Soil Science deals with soil as a natural surface layer capable of supporting living plants.

GEOG 317 Soil Science
GEOG 417 Advanced Soil Science

Department of Geography