Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor of Arts with Honors in Human Geography

The Bachelor of Arts with Honors in Human Geography is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to foster a deep understanding of the complex relationships between human societies and their built and natural environments. This program seeks to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary to analyze and address the myriad challenges facing modern society.

Why Study Human Geography?

Human geography is a vital branch of social science that focuses on collecting high-quality data about individuals, institutions, and communities, and analyzing this data to improve our understanding of societal issues and challenges. Through the study of human geography, students are introduced to real-world case studies and problem-solving approaches, enabling them to develop practical solutions to contemporary problems.

Why Study a Bachelor of Arts with Honors?

The Bachelor of Arts with Honors program is designed to create a tight-knit community of academically minded undergraduate students. This community provides a supportive environment where students can share ideas, collaborate on projects, receive mentorship from upper-year peers, and access specialized support from department and faculty teams throughout their studies. Participating in an honors program offers students the opportunity to engage in the research process, develop connections with professors and academics in their field, and gain insight into what graduate school entails while completing their undergraduate degree.

Why Study at the University of Alberta?

The University of Alberta's Faculty of Arts boasts one of the most diverse arts programs in Canada, offering top-quality educational opportunities that prepare students for successful careers in every sector of society. With over 900 distinct courses in the humanities, social sciences, and fine arts, students can find an academic pathway tailored to their interests and career aspirations. The faculty's nationally and internationally recognized members bring unique perspectives to the classroom, drawn from their research and advancement of human knowledge. Academic excellence, innovative problem-solving, and experiential learning opportunities beyond the classroom enhance students' studies, providing them with the tools to thrive in a diverse and increasingly complex workplace.

Possible Careers

• Community Development Officer
  • Environmental Assessment Analyst
  • GIS Analyst
  • Geographer
  • Housing Policy Advisor
  • Information Specialist
  • International Trade Consultant
  • Project Manager
  • Research Analyst
  • Sustainability Coordinator

Program Requirements

Non-Direct Entry

• High School applicants are admitted to the BA Honors Foundation Year, requiring a minimum application average of 85% on the required five admission subjects.
• Students must complete an online Program Selection Form by the end of the first year of study (minimum 24 units of course weight) to indicate their preferred major(s).
• The minimum average requirements and any prerequisites are outlined in the Specific Admission Requirements to BA Honors Majors chart.
• Students are encouraged to complete the requirements for at least two majors in their Foundation Year.

Preprofessional Study Time

• BA Honors Foundation Year
• Minimum of 24 units of transferable course weight required.
• Consult the U of A Calendar for fields of study and appropriate first-year course selection.

Admission Selection

• For consideration, students need a minimum Admission Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 with an average of 3.3 or better in their Honors subject courses.
• Competitive AGPA varies by field of study from 3.0-3.3.

English Language Proficiency

The University of Alberta ensures that all students have the necessary language skills to understand, participate, and learn in classes. The primary language of instruction is English, except for classes at the Faculté Saint-Jean. For more information on the English Language Proficiency policy, refer to the U of A Calendar.

Indigenous Applicants

The University of Alberta is committed to encouraging Indigenous students in their pursuit of a degree. The policy aims to increase opportunities for Indigenous students, with the goal of the Aboriginal student population being representative of the public served. For more information on the Admission of Indigenous Students, refer to the U of A Calendar.

Deadline

• Fall application:
  • Domestic: March 1, 2026
  • International: March 1, 2026

Tuition and Fees

Tuition fees are evaluated based on the specific courses registered in. A cost calculator is available to provide an estimate based on full-time study for the selected program, living arrangements, citizenship status, and more.

Scholarships and Financial Support

The Office of the Registrar administers over $52 million each year in scholarships, awards, and financial support for undergraduate students, as well as financial and loan advising. Additional scholarships are available for specific faculties and programs.