GEG 1000-3 World Regional Geography (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: minimum performance standard scores on reading, writing, and mathematics preassessment placement tests

This course presents the study of the formation, behavior, and interaction of social, political, cultural, and economic regions throughout the world. (General Studies-Level II, Social Sciences)

GEG 1100-3 Introduction to Physical Geography (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: minimum performance standard scores on reading, writing, and mathematics preassessment placement tests

This survey course is designed to provide an understanding of all the elements of the physical environment. The course emphasizes the four spheres: the atmosphere (weather and climate), the lithosphere (soils, geology, and landforms), the hydrosphere (oceans, streams, and groundwater), and the biosphere (vegetation and animals). (General Studies-Level II, Natural Science)

GEG 1120-1 Orienteering (0 + 2)

This course familiarizes students with the reading and interpretation of topographic maps and the use of the compass. Orienteering exercises are conducted in the field.

GEG 1200-3 Introduction to Environmental Science (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: minimum performance standard scores on reading, writing, and mathematics preassessment placement tests

This course is an introduction to the study of the physical environment and some of the major related issues and problems. The areas of concern include the nature of the environment, climatic factors, agriculture, solid and hazardous waste site location, global environmental hazards, land use, water resources, and energy and mineral resources, as well as environmental ethics and management and decision making. (General Studies-Level II, Natural Science)

GEG 1220-2 Map Use (1 + 2)

This is an introductory course providing basic information on the use and interpretation of maps, map projections, map scale, map symbols, remote sensing, and Geographical Information Systems.

GEG 1230-3 Weather and Climate (2 + 2)

This is an introductory course that includes that portion of physical geography dealing with weather and climate. Both world and local patterns are analyzed, as well as short- and long-range aspects of weather dynamics.

GEG 1240-3 Landforms of the U.S. (3 + 0)

Students study the physical features of the earth's surface and the shape or form of the landscape as influenced by interaction between basic earth processes and rock types, structure, climate, and weathering. U.S. and especially Colorado, examples are used to illustrate landforms.

GEG 1300-3 Introduction to Human Geography (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: minimum performance standard scores on reading, writing, and mathematics preassessment placement tests

This course is an introduction to geographic perspectives, concepts, and methods as they apply to the study of human activities. Special emphasis is placed on patterns of human distribution, adjustments to the natural environment, land use practices, and culture traits. (General Studies-Level II, Social Sciences)

GEG 1400-3 World Resources (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: minimum performance standard scores on reading, writing, and mathematics preassessment placement tests

This course provides a survey of the physical resources of the world, including water, soil, vegetation, energy, and minerals. This course includes an analysis of geographic occurrence, extraction, appraisal, utilization, historic changes, and environmental issues. (General Studies-Level II, Natural Science)

GEG 1500-1-3 Current Topics in Geography: Variable Topics (1-3 + 0)

Prerequisite: permission of instructor

These courses cover important topics in geography, usually involving contemporary issues. The course content will vary and the course may be repeated for credit as the course topic changes.

GEG 1530-1 Ghost Towns of Northern Colorado (1 + 0)

This course investigates the ghost towns of northeastern Colorado. Through lecture and field work, students will learn how perceptions of the land affected settlement patterns and land use in northeastern Colorado. Related topics include use of the land by Native Americans, physical geography, transportation patterns from trails to highways, planned communities and the Buffalo Commons proposal. Note: Students cannot take both GEG 1530 and GEG 3530 for credit.

GEG 1610-1 Introduction to Planning (1 + 0)

This course provides an overview of the role of planning in land use, different types of planning processes, public and private sector actors, skills required of planners, and planning documents and maps.

GEG 2020-3 Geography of Colorado (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: minimum performance standard scores on reading, writing and mathematics preassessment placement tests

This course presents the study of the physical, economic, and cultural features of Colorado. These features include climate, landforms, history, water resources, energy and minerals, mining, soil, natural vegetation, agriculture, population characteristics, the economy, current issues, as well as their interactions, and the overall geographic setting. (General Studies-Level II, Social Sciences)

GEG 2100-2 Geography of Latin America (2 + 0)

Prerequisite: a course in geography or permission of the instructor

This course studies the physical, political, and economic geography of Latin American countries. The course emphasizes contemporary land-use patterns and use of natural resources.

GEG 2200-3 Geography of the United States (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: six hours of earth science courses

This course is a survey of the geography of the U.S., including an overview of the physical characteristics, landforms, climate, soil, vegetation, and natural resources. Regions of the U.S. are studied, including the distribution of population, agriculture, industry, transportation, and culture. Geographic problems and issues are raised.

GEG 2250-3 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (2 + 2)

Prerequisites: GEG 1220 and CSS 1010 (or CMS 1010)

This is an introductory course that provides students with the basic theoretical, technical, and application knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). It introduces and provides direct experience with the techniques used to manipulate and display spatial data using GIS.

GEG 2300-3 Geographic Analysis of Social Issues (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: GEG 1300

This course is a geographic analysis of current social issues. Topics include urban spatial problems, such as crowding and crime, drugs and gangs, population growth, environmental perception, resource use, and culturally based land-use patterns. The administration of space, boundaries, territoriality, and spatial learning are discussed.

GEG 3000-3 Historical Geography of the U.S. (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: six hours of geography or permission of instructor; GEG 1300, GEG 2200, or HIS 1210 recommended

This course examines the unique interrelationships between geography and history. Topics covered include frontiers and boundaries, settlement patterns, environmental perception, sequent occupancy, changing land-use practices, migration, and urban growth. Further, the course addresses the interrelationships between different physical environments and cultural landscapes.

GEG 3210-4 Introduction to Cartography (2 + 4)

Prerequisite: GEG 1220

This course provides instruction in the use and interpretation of maps, as well as the tools and constructional techniques of maps. Students will construct a variety of maps at different map scales and projections and critique their effectiveness.

GEG 3220-3 Intermediate Cartography (1 + 4)

Prerequisite: GEG 3210

This course emphasizes the production of monochromatic, multitone, thematic maps using scribing and photographic techniques. Alternative methods of representing relief features will be explored, including construction of physiographic block diagrams, pictorial maps, and contour maps.

GEG 3300-3

(NAS 3300, PSC 3300) Land Use, Culture and Conflict (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: GEG 1400 or NAS 1000 or PSC 1010 and junior standing

This course is designed to introduce students to theories, approaches and controversies concerning use of land and resources on Indian Reservations. Reading and discussion will be directed toward questions related to differing views on land use and resources, how modernization impacts traditional settings, as well as treaties and governmental policies that govern Indian land. Case studies which illustrate current conflict/resolution issues between Native Americans and other actors such as federal, state and local governments will be examined. Credit will be granted for only one prefix. (General Studies - Level II, Social Science; Multicultural)

GEG 3360-3 Geography of Economic Activity (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: GEG 1000 or GEG 1300 plus six additional hours of geography and MTH 1210. ECO 2010 or ECO 2020 recommended

This course investigates the "economic landscape" and analyzes global patterns of spatial interdependence in a systems framework. Spatial economic models are examined through case studies and class exercises. The relationships between human activity and land-use patterns are examined in a world/regional context.

GEG 3400-3 Water Resources (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: GEG 1200 or GEG 1400, one of the following: GEG 1100, GEG 1230, or GEL 1010

This course presents an analysis of water as a major resource. It includes the study of the hydrologic cycle, competing water uses, current water problems, and approaches to water management. The relationship of water to land use is examined in terms of dams, watersheds, water laws, pollution, and flood control.

GEG 3520-2-3 Regional Geography: Variable Topics (2-3 + 0)

Prerequisite: six hours of earth science courses

Specific regions of the world will be selected for in-depth study. Topics will include physical and cultural geography, demographics, economic activity, urbanization, political geography and environmental issues. The course may be repeated for credit as a different region is studied.

GEG 3530-1 Advanced Ghost Towns of Northern Colorado (1 + 0)

Prerequisite: nine hours of geography or geology or permission of instructor

This course examines the ghost towns of northeastern Colorado. Through lecture and field work, students will evaluate how perceptions of the land affected settlement patterns and land use in northeastern Colorado. Additional topics to be evaluated include use of the land by Native Americans, physical geography, transportation patterns from trails to highways, planned communities and the Buffalo Commons proposal. Note: Students cannot take both GEG 1530 and GEG 3530 for credit.

GEG 3600-3 Urban Geography (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: GEG 1000, GEG 1300, or URS 1000

This course examines theories of urban development and factors that affect urbanization, such as demographic change, annexation, zoning, and infrastructure development. Models of urban land use are examined in the context of cities in the United States. Students learn how to prepare and analyze census-tract maps.

GEG 3610-3 Principles of Land Use Planning (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: six hours of geography, GEG 2250 recommended

In this course students learn basic land-use planning concepts and how to analyze land-use patterns, interpret land-use maps, and analyze existing land-use plans. Further, students learn how to collect relevant data, prepare a comprehensive land-use plan, and predict future planning issues. Special attention is paid to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in land-use planning.

GEG 3620-3 Population, Resources, and Land Use (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: GEG 1000 or GEG 1300, six hours in geography; GEG 1400 recommended

This course examines the distribution and density of the global population and the relationship of these patterns to world resources and development problems. Population shifts, including birth, death, migration, and doubling rates are analyzed. Data analysis and projections are covered.

GEG 3630-3 Transportation Planning and Land Use (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: GEG 3610, six additional hours of geography

This course is an analysis of transportation systems as they relate to other types of land use. Transportation networks are examined in terms of types, patterns, and densities. Consideration is given to alternative transportation systems as they relate to energy savings, pollution prevention, and the reduction of congestion.

GEG 3920-2-6 Directed Study in Land Use (0 + 4-12)

Prerequisites: 15 hours in earth science courses and approval of instructor and department chair

This course provides an opportunity for upper-division students with a strong background in earth science to pursue study in a specific topic of interest and value. The course requires permission of the instructor and chair of the Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Department and frequent meetings between student and instructor.

GEG 4200-3 Environmental Policy and Planning (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: GEG 1200 or GEG 1400 and junior or senior standing; GEG 3610 or GEL 4010 recommended

This course provides an overview of environmental policy and major environmental laws in the U.S. The major statutes are analyzed in terms of purpose, scope, implementation, compliance requirements, and impact on land use. Case studies are examined in a planning context.

GEG 4410-3 Water Law (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: GEG 1200 or GEG 1400 or GEG 3400 or permission of instructor

This course surveys U.S. water law and administration. Topics include (1) why we need laws regulating water use, (2) how ancient water laws influenced U.S. water law, (3) variations of surface and groundwater law, including prior appropriation, riparian, and hybrid, (4) international and interstate agreements, and (5) a special focus on water administration in the West. 

GEG 4420-3 Wetlands (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: GEG 1200 or GEG 1400 or GEG 3400 or permission of instructor

This course offers a broad overview of wetland landscapes. Topics include (1) spatial distribution (local and national), (2) variations in wetlands topology (salt-water versus fresh-water and warmer versus colder climates), (3) relationships between wetlands (migratory flight paths), (4) wetlands ecosystems, (5) human impacts on wetlands, (6) federal, state, and local wetlands regulations, and (7) international wetlands problems.

GEG 4430-2 Habitat Planning (2 + 0)

Prerequisite: junior or senior standing in geography, geology or land use or permission of instructor

This is an interdisciplinary course designed to examine the forces and impacts of urban expansion on wildlife habitats. Topics include national and local trends in urban growth, environmental ethics, economic and political issues related to habitat planning, and examination of selected case studies of habitat conservation plans.

GEG 4610-3 Urban and Regional Planning (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: GEG 3600, GEG 3610 or equivalent

This course studies the philosophy and scope of urban and regional planning and the principles and factors of planning and their interrelationships.

GEG 4620-3 Residential Land Use Patterns (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: GEG 3600 or GEG 3610 or six hours of urban studies courses

This course examines spatial patterns of urban growth, factors that affect housing, the role of nonprofit developers in the current housing market, as well as theories that explain the residential mosaic of North American cities. It includes an analysis of current housing trends as well as the housing types, densities, patterns and geographic distribution, as well as the interrelationships with other aspects of the urban environment, including infrastructure.

GEG 4640-3 Recreational Land Use Patterns (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: GEG 3610 or permission of instructor

This course considers various types of recreation space, including greenbelts; open space; wilderness areas; and national, state and local parks. It relates recreational land to the land-use planning process, as well as the environmental impacts of recreation.

GEG 4710-3 Legal Aspects of Land Use (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: GEG 3610 or GEL 4010 or permission of instructor

This course studies the laws, ordinances and regulations related to land use, as well as the role of federal, state and local government in regulating and controlling land use. The course makes use of case studies and local issues.

GEG 4840-3 Remote Sensing (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: GEG 1220 and either GEG 1100, GEG 1240, or GEL 1010, and six hours of upper-division geography or geology courses

This course, designed for geoscience students, provides a survey of remote sensing technologies, applications, and industry. The course exposes the student to the techniques of extracting relevant information from both hardcopy and digital imagery. The application of remote sensing techniques and technology to the fields of Land-Use Planning and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is stressed. Introductions to the electromagnetic spectrum, energy sources, radiation principles, aerial cameras, electronic imaging, and various high-altitude and space-based collection systems provide the student with the initial building blocks to a thorough understanding of remote sensing.

GEG 4850-3 Advanced Geographic Information Systems (2 + 2)

Prerequisites: GEG 2250 plus upper division standing

This course offers an opportunity for upper-division students with a solid background in the fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to apply the analytical capabilities of this technology to model real-world situations in support of decision making. Particular emphasis is given to the specific conditions, requirements, and processing considerations surrounding effective GIS modeling and decision making. Issues of design and development of GIS and their implementation are discussed and analyzed.

GEG 4860-3 Applications of ARC/INFO to Natural Resources Management (1 + 4)

Prerequisite: GEG 2250

This course emphasizes the application of ARC/INFO and AML (ARC Macro Language) to the management of natural resources.

GEG 4870-3 Spatial Databases Design, Implementation and Management (2 + 2)

Prerequisite: GEG 2250 and GEG 4860

This is a course on the fundamentals of proper design, implementation and management of spatial databases. The logical and physical designs of a geographic database are studied in detail. Particular emphasis is given to the set of practical guidelines and considerations surrounding the design, implementation and management of an effective and efficient spatial database. The theory and concepts are reinforced by demonstrations and hands-on exercises using popular commercial Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Database Management Systems (DBMS). 

GEG 4890-3 Advanced GIS Laboratory (1 + 4)

Prerequisites: senior standing, GEG 4850, GEG 4860, GEG 4870 or permission of instructor

A senior-level capstone course for land use majors emphasizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Students will solve a natural resources related problem applying GIS technology. Students will prepare and present final reports for their projects. (Senior Experience)

GEG 4950-2-15 Internship in Land Use (0 + 6-45)

Prerequisite: Land Use major with upper division standing plus 12 upper division hours of earth science courses and permission of the chair of the earth and atmospheric sciences department

This course provides an on-the-job internship experience with a land-use-related company or agency. The experience must be done under qualified supervision and under the direction of an earth and atmospheric sciences faculty member.

GEG 4960-3 Global Environmental Challenges (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: Twelve hours of upper division courses in geology, geography, biology and/or meteorology or written permission of instructor, and senior standing

This course will include the identification of major global environmental problems, including causes and impacts and the interplay of economic, cultural, and political forces. The approach will be a geographic analysis including location, spatial distribution, density, boundaries, and physical factors such as landforms, soils, and climate. Students are responsible as individuals and groups for presentations and discussions. (Senior Experience)