Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor of Arts in Geography

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Geography is an academic program that offers students a broad liberal education with the ability to specialize in various fields of study. Geography is the study of people, places, and patterns on the Earth's surface. Students learn how to analyze the meaning of patterns formed on the Earth's surface by natural processes and human activity. Geographers apply these concepts and information to manage and use Earth's resources to advance human civilization in a sustainable manner.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Arts degree is offered as either a B.A. or B.A. (Honours), both requiring the completion of 120 units and normally four years of full-time study.

Courses Required in the First Year

• Fall semester:
  • Geography 204 or 254 or 280 or Open Option
  • Science Option or Open Option
  • Open Option
  • Open Option
  • Open Option
• Winter semester:
  • Geography 204 or 254 or 280 or Open Option
  • Science Option or Open Option
  • Open Option
  • Open Option
  • Open Option

Faculty and Program

Studying for a Bachelor of Arts degree means that students are part of the Faculty of Arts. The program chosen refers to the subject area the Bachelor of Arts degree will focus on. Within the Faculty of Arts, there are numerous majors and programs to choose from, including Archaeology to Visual Studies.

Credit and Transfer

Students who received Advanced Placement credit or International Baccalaureate credit upon admission follow the same registration process as first-time university students. They may be eligible to use their transfer credit in their degree program, depending on the program and course applicability.

Enhancing the Bachelor of Arts Program

• Co-op and Internship: Gain valuable work experience in the industry through co-operative education and internship opportunities.
• Study Abroad: Experience different cultures, gain a better understanding of world issues, and travel while earning credit towards the degree.
• Community Service-Learning: Combine classroom learning with volunteer work that achieves community goals.
• Arts and Science Honours Academy: A unique program that combines collaborative study, global opportunities, and academic challenge for high-achieving students.

Program Details

The University of Calgary is situated on land traditionally known as Moh’kins’tsis to the Blackfoot, Wîchîspa to the Stoney Nakoda, and Guts’ists’i to the Tsuut’ina. The Bachelor of Arts in Geography is part of the Faculty of Arts, offering a broad range of majors and programs. Students can enhance their program through various opportunities such as co-op, study abroad, and community service-learning. The program focuses on the study of people, places, and patterns on the Earth's surface, preparing students for a wide variety of jobs and careers.