University of the Sunshine Coast

Bachelor of Arts (Geography)

For a major in Geography, students must successfully complete 8 courses:

The Changing Planet: If you are interested in exploring how the planet works then this is the course for you! This introductory physical geography course investigates the lithosphere, hydrosphere, weather and climate, and the biosphere and how humans are impacting these ancient physical systems. You will develop “writing the earth” report writing skills using professional geographical tools and datasets.

Space, place and the Anthropocene: Human geography is the study of societies and their environments, of peoples and places. This thought-provoking course will engage with geographical theories to better understand our everyday connections to landscape and place; colonialism and global economies; sites of consumption and production; identities, difference, and exclusion.

Hydrology and Geomorphology: This course will introduce you to the study of landscapes and the variability of, interactions between, and impacts of hydrological and geomorphological processes and the methods and tools for measuring, monitoring, and modeling processes such as precipitation, runoff, and discharge.

Landscapes, Place and People: This course introduces you to the impact of globalization, the links between space, place, and time, and the historical, natural, and cultural processes that shape landscapes, cultural identities, and development. Different dimensions of geographical change in the modernizing world are explored through the lens of globalization, including colonization, industrialization, rural development, urbanization, marginalization, and development ideologies (including the Sustainable Development Goals-SDGs).

Mapping with Drones: This course will introduce you to the application of drones as mapping platforms for environmental applications. You will learn about the basics of aerodynamics, flight navigation systems, legislation, data analysis, and have hands-on practical experience flying small drones (< 2 kg).

Coastal Geomorphology: Coastal geomorphology is the study of the shape, processes, and evolution of coastal landforms. You will develop a practical understanding of coastal dynamics through a combination of theoretical conceptual models and fieldwork which examine the importance of coastal geomorphic forms and their management. The course examines the dynamics of the coastal zone, its physical workings, and techniques to measure and monitor processes and change in the coastal environment; such as examining beach erosion and impacts of sea-level rise.

Globalisation, Development and Indigenous Peoples: This course examines global development and its impacts on peoples and places, including indigenous peoples. In this course, you will study the global patterns and processes involved in the transformation of local places, and changing political, cultural, and economic geographies.

Geo-ethics (Plants, Animals and People): In this course, you will explore the geography of life on earth at different places, spaces, and scales. You will use empirical and critical biogeography approaches to examine contemporary topics about nature.