57 graduate courses in the Winter 2015 Graduate Calendar, from Waterloo’s archived copy.
An overview of concepts and methodologies in several aspects of spatial data handling: cartography, geographic information systems, remote sensing, spatial statistics. Analysis of spatial data sets. *eligible for MES.
SEM · Course ID 001344Archived pageGEOG 600 today
Principles and techniques of analyzing environmental change from long time-series of remotely sensed imagery are examined. Case studies include the impacts of climate on sea ice and the role of natural and human-induced stress on tropical coral reefs. Prerequisites: Geography 603 or equivalent. *eligible for MES.
LEC · Course ID 009416Archived pageGEOG 601 today
This course focuses on the extraction of hydrologically-relevant parameters from remote sensing that are germane to cold regions such as snowfall, snow cover, glaciers & ice caps, lake and river ice, permafrost, and seasonally frozen ground. The determination of hydrological parameters in the liquid and vapour phases such precipitiation, soild moisture, surface water, and evaporation/evapotranspiration from remote sensing, as well as the integration of remote sensing data into hydrological models are also covered. Prerequisites: UW undergraduates: GEOG 271, 371, 471 or undergraduate Geomatics degree. Undergraduate Geography degree with suitable remote sensing experience. Students with no remote sensing experience but strong GIS experience are required to take a 675 Directed Reading course entitled "Remote Sensing Analysis" prior to enrolment in 602. *eligible for MES.
LEC · Course ID 001345Archived pageGEOG 602 today
This course will explore how remote sensing is used and in concert with empirical or physically-based models to help us better understand Earth system processes from the local to global scales. Students will learn how remote sensing measurements are coupled with radiative transfer models, energy and mass balance models and spatial analytical models from different components of the Earth system. Examples will be drawn from the hydrologic and carbon cycles from the human built enviornment. Prerequisites: UW undergraduates: Geog 271, 371, 471 or undergraduate Geomatics degree. Undergraduate degree with suitable remote sensing experience. Students with no remote sensing experience but strong GIS experience are required to take a 675 Directed Reading course entitled "Remote Sensing Analysis" prior to enrolment in 603. *eligible for MES.
SEM, TUT · Course ID 001346Archived pageGEOG 603 today
An overview of spatial statistics and their use in geographic studies. *eligible for MES.
SEM · Course ID 001347Archived pageGEOG 604 today
This course considers the role of GIS and RS technologies for problem solving and planning decision support in developing countries. Topics covered include the globalisation of information technology and its transfer from developed to developing countries and general aspects of the spatial information technology industry and its relationship to society. *eligible for MES.
(Cross-listed with PLAN 654)
SEM · Course ID 011818Archived pageGEOG 605 today
Introduction to GIS concepts and to their application in geographic studies using basic GIS software. This course is designed for students with little or no prior experience with GIS. *eligible for MES.
LEC · Course ID 001348Archived pageGEOG 606 today
Current applications of GIS and related technologies in geographic research and environmental management are examined through discussions and individual student projects. This course is designed for students with previous GIS experience. *eligible for MES.
SEM · Course ID 001349Archived pageGEOG 607 today
An overview of high-resolution remote sensing systems and advanced study of image segmentation, data fusion, feature extraction, and change detection algorithms. Topics include 3D city modeling, land use/cover classification, urban heat island study, urban sprawl monitoring, and risk mapping. *eligible for MES.
LEC · Course ID 012793Archived pageGEOG 608 today
This course introduces students to key theories, concepts and techniques that have been developed recently to improve the design support capabilities of spatial information systems. Topics covered include participatory GIS, group-based spatial decision support systems, and the integration of multi-criteria analysis (MCA) methods with GIS to facilitate decision-making in planning. *eligible for MES
(Cross-listed with PLAN 657)
SEM · Course ID 011491Archived pageGEOG 609 today
Examination of industrial location theory, and themes concerning the role of manufacturing in the space-economy. Factors of location will be considered as will the way that manufacturing has led to spatial disparity on international, regional and local levels.
SEM · Course ID 001839Archived pageGEOG 611 today
This course will review the principles underlying regional development theory and evaluate the application of these principles in policy and practice. The purpose of this course is to explore regional development options in the context of fiscal conservatism and intense international competition for investments.
SEM · Course ID 001841Archived pageGEOG 613 today
Community Economic Development is a field of theory, process and practice that is concerned with understanding the forces shaping communities and finding sustainable local solutions to economic needs. This seminar course will examine topics such as capacity-building, asset-based strategies, social capital, poverty-alleviation, social enterprises and co-operatives, and comprehensive community initiatives, using international and local examples and case studies.
SEM · Course ID 001842Archived pageGEOG 615 today
Theory and application of multivariate statistics, regression and correlation analysis, factor analysis, discriminant analysis and grouping analysis, with emphasis on the use of the computer. *eligible for MES.
(Cross-listed with PLAN 616)
SEM · Course ID 001360Archived pageGEOG 616 today
Critical appraisal of regional economic analysis, projection and decision-making techniques. Problem based study of methods commonly used by regional planners, economic developers, and consultants. Identification of leverage sectors, trend analysis, investment decision-making and input/output analysis are discussed. New analysis applications and approaches are explored.
LEC, RDG, SEM, TUT · Course ID 002245Archived pageGEOG 619 today
This seminar will provide a broad survey of the interdisciplinary scope of human geography and investigate a wide range of human/society dynamics, theoretical positions and methodologies. The format of inquiry will be that of a seminar wherein students conduct original research and exchange results through ongoing reports and discussions.
SEM · Course ID 001364Archived pageGEOG 620 today
A seminar on selected topics of particular relevance to understanding and planning for contemporary processes of metropolitan change in Canada. Major topics represent an interrelated set of exogenous forces, (globalization, economic restructuring, technological innovation and immigration and demographic shift), and endogenous structural responses, (central city decline, revitalization, dispersed styles of suburban development and new urbanist and ecologically sustainable styles of planned intervention).
(Cross-listed with PLAN 621)
SEM · Course ID 010621Archived pageGEOG 621 today
An exploration of observed patterns of human activity and travel, underlying decision-making processes, data collection methodologies, and associated impacts on environment and health.
SEM · Course ID 001368Archived pageGEOG 624 today
This course is designed to investigate the range of qualitative research methods (research tools) employed by human geographers and explore the methodological justifications (philosophical or theoretical underpinnings) for using this type of research approach. Qualitative methods attempt to interpret meaning as opposed to purely measuring phenomena. The focus of qualitative research is not descriptive measurement and prediction of phenomena, as offered by statistical description/analysis, but is more attuned to examining subjective understandings and the interpretation of meaning (hermeneutics). This course will examine and evaluate the range of research tools comprising qualitative methods including: various interviewing methods, participant observation, ethnography, case study methods and dicourse analysis. It will also engage with the theoretical debates and philosophical approaches that underpin qualitative research.
SEM · Course ID 001369Archived pageGEOG 625 today
This course emphasizes both theoretical and conceptual frameworks, techniques, practices and methods for analysis of development, focusing in particular on the development - environment interface and questions of sustainability.
(Cross-listed with INDEV 602)
LEC, RDG, SEM · Course ID 001374Archived pageGEOG 635 today
This course will engage with the parameters of cultural geography from varying perspectives, which might include origins, evolution, impacts of the cultural turn, and future directions.
LEC · Course ID 013243Archived pageGEOG 637 today
This course examines sustainability issues relevant to tourism. Conceptual and practical examples related to economic, environmental, and social/cultural sustainability of tourism are critically appraised, combined with reviews of policy and institutional effects on sustainability practices. The course also focuses on best practices in sustainable tourism within government, non-government and private sector.
(Cross-listed with TOUR 603)
SEM · Course ID 010724Archived pageGEOG 638 today
The course examines emerging and existing sustainable food systems from a North American and EU perspective. Topics may include: technology, nature and society; policy dimensions in North American and the EU; knowledge and power; spaces of consumption; the moral economy; new urbanism and food planning; and, food networks such as commodity chains and fairly traded food.
LEC · Course ID 013394Archived pageGEOG 639 today
Basic concepts related to temporal and spatial scales together with variability as they directly affect data collection and analysis. Leading edge research related to selected sub-disciplines of physical geography will be critically discussed. *eligible for MES.
SEM · Course ID 001375Archived pageGEOG 640 today
The course examines the interactive physical, biological and geochemical processes responsible for and resulting from climate change, including anthropogenic influences on these processes. *eligible for MES.
(Cross-listed with GEMCC 601)
SEM · Course ID 010625Archived pageGEOG 641 today
Advanced study of boundary-layer meteorology. Energy balance regimes for complex surfaces are examined. The theory of turbulent and radiant transfer is studied using field data collected during the course. *eligible for MES.
SEM · Course ID 001376Archived pageGEOG 642 today
An overview of current issues and methodologies in geomorphology with special emphasis on processes operating in fluvial, glacial, periglacial or coastal environments. *eligible for MES.
SEM · Course ID 001377Archived pageGEOG 643 today
An examination of the way in which human activities modify landscapes and the impacts of government policy and planning with respect to landscape change. The role of the geomorphologist in landscape rehabilitation. *eligible for MES.
SEM · Course ID 001378Archived pageGEOG 644 today
Laboratory (hydraulic) models and sediment transport theory are emphasized in the analysis of modern and ancient (Pleistocene) landforms of fluvial and glaciofluvial origin. *eligible for MES.
SEM · Course ID 009420Archived pageGEOG 645 today
Overview of hydrological processes with emphasis on Canadian examples related to the hydrologic cycle, surface hydrology, groundwater hydrology, and measurement techniques. *eligible for MES.
SEM · Course ID 001379Archived pageGEOG 646 today
Selected topics on the distribution, classification, functional dynamics, and ecosystem structure of wetlands. A scientific basis for wetlands management is emphasized. *eligible for MES.
SEM · Course ID 001380Archived pageGEOG 647 today
This course examines the use of stratigraphic records from lakes to reconstruct environmental change. Topics include sediment coring techniques, radiometric dating methods, analysis of physical, geochemical and biological indicators, and case studies demonstrating applications to address scientific and management questions. Practical experience is gained from a lake sediment coring field trip and subsequent laboratory analyses. *eligible for MES.
LEC · Course ID 012794Archived pageGEOG 648 today
This course provides an overview of the hydrology of cold regions. Physical processes are emphasized, but hydrological modeling, and geochemistry are included where appropriate. *eligible for MES.
LEC · Course ID 012795Archived pageGEOG 649 today
This course examines the interaction in both space and time between hydrological processes and lacustrine environments. Applications to freshwater ecosystem management are explored.
(Cross-listed with BIOL 651)
SEM · Course ID 013757Archived pageGEOG 651 today
Computer models of the physical climate system are essential tools for investigating future climate change. This course will introduce students to the basic formulation of these models, and their strengths and limitations. Inter-linkages between climate modeling and mitigation and adaptation policy agendas is reviewed and critiqued. The types of climate modeling experiments peformed with such models and scenarios will be reviewed. The latest projections of future climate on a variety of temporal and spatial scales will be presented and evaluated. *eligible for MES
(Cross-listed with GEMCC 610)
LAB, SEM · Course ID 014506Archived pageGEOG 652 today
This course examines contemporary theories, approaches, and technologies used to study coupled natural-human systems at the intersection of land-use and land-cover change, land management, and the carbon cycle. Topics covered include measurement and modelling techniques to improve carbon accounting, the effects of land use and land management on carbon storage and flux, and international and national policy frameworkds influencing carbon sequestration and climate change mitigation. *eligible for MES
(Cross-listed with GEMCC 630)
LAB, SEM · Course ID 014510Archived pageGEOG 653 today
This course focuses on ecological and biogeochemical processes that are linked to the hydrological cycle and how these relate tothe management of natural resources. The objectives of this interdisciplinary course are to explore topics that integrate ecosystem processes with physical hydrology, and examine the impacts of human activities on the ecohydrological system. Therefore the focus of this course is on the storage and movement of water, solutes and nutrients within selected ecosystems, considering the ecological consequences of human activit. *eligible for MES
LEC, TUT · Course ID 014735Archived pageGEOG 654 today
Current research and practice in resource and environmental management. *eligible for MES.
SEM · Course ID 001210Archived pageGEOG 660 today
This applied hydrology course involves defining, designing and conducting research on the hydrology and/or water quality of a specific environmental setting. Drawing on strengths and interests of students, the field and laboratory activities in this course typically involve collection, analysis and reporting of primary data. The Fall-term (661A) focuses on literature review, problem definition, methodological design and data collection; the Winter-term (661B) includes analysis, interpretation and write-up suitable for publication in a refereed journal. Group work is typically involved. *eligible for MES
(Cross-listed with PLAN 661A)
SEM · Course ID 002264Archived pageGEOG 661A today
This course is a continuation of GEOG 661A/PLAN 661A. *eligible for MES.
SEM · Course ID 001389Archived pageGEOG 661B today
Readings, discussions and case study analysis draw attention to the intersection of political-economy and ecological analysis, and contested understandings of environmental change, livelihoods and sustainability. Topics may include communities and conservation, knowledge systems and power, ecological change, property rights and institutions, social movements, and methods. *eligible for MES.
LEC · Course ID 001392Archived pageGEOG 664 today
An interdisciplinary approach to environmental planning. Focuses on the socio-economic, planning, environmental science, design, and decision-making theories and methods utilized in environmental planning theory and practice. Regional and local case studies and studio projects will be used to demonstrate professional practice issues and techniques. Recommended: A senior level course in ecology, environmental science, landscape architecture or equivalent. *eligible for MES.
(Cross-listed with PLAN 665)
SEM · Course ID 002269Archived pageGEOG 665 today
An ecological approach to planning national and provincial parks, focusing on system planning, master planning and park administration. Examination of the theory and practice of parks planning, utilizing ecological concepts. Recommended: a senior undergrad or graduate ecology course. Estimated additional field trip cost to student: $30.00 *eligible for MES
(Cross-listed with PLAN 666)
SEM · Course ID 002270Archived pageGEOG 666 today
Renewable and non-renewable energy supply systems are compared using economic and environmental measures. Consumption trends, conservation options and choices are considered at the household, community and global scales. Projects are used to demonstrate the economic and environmental challenges in the design of sustainable energy systems. *eligible for MES.
LEC, RDG, SEM · Course ID 012666Archived pageGEOG 669 today
This course will introduce participants to a variety of topics and research methods through presentations made by active researchers from Canada and abroad. *eligible for MES
SEM · Course ID 001400Archived pageGEOG 671 today
An examination of socioeconomic-biophysical system interactions emphasizing multi- and transdisciplinary perspectives such as human ecology, health, ecosystems, and complexity. Students normally focus on one particular problem and region to illustrate concepts and methods. *eligible for MES
LEC · Course ID 001401Archived pageGEOG 672 today
An overview of issues, problems and concepts in international resource and environmental management. The complex nature of ecological/biophysical, economic, and sociocultural aspects of resource management will be explored, with particular emphasis placed on tracing challenges experienced in developing countries. *eligible for MES
LEC · Course ID 001402Archived pageGEOG 673 today
This course examines how weather and climate influence human systems, and the international trend twoard improved climate information. The emphasis is on developing competence in using analytical tools to understand the direct and indirect impatcts of weather and climate on human activities and economic sectors. *eligible for MES.
(Cross-listed with GEMCC 620)
SEM · Course ID 014508Archived pageGEOG 674 today
Topic(s) to be negotiated on an individual basis with faculty members. An outline for this course, approved by the professor in charge, must be submitted to the Program Director, within three weeks of registration.
Instructor Consent Required
RDG · Course ID 001403Archived pageGEOG 675 today
This course examines the impacts of changing climate on natural and human systems and focuses on the capacity of societies to adjust to, plan for and cope with changing climate and environmental conditions. *eligible for MES
(Cross-listed with GEMCC 602)
SEM · Course ID 009423Archived pageGEOG 676 today
This course explores the complex links between climate change and natural hazards, and related disasters, including disaster risk reduction as an adaptation strategy. Emphasis is placed on examining these concepts in a developing country context. *eligible for
(Cross-listed with GEMCC 622)
SEM · Course ID 014509Archived pageGEOG 677 today
This course provides an in-depth examination of the development and implementation of climate change policy at the international, national and sub-national level. Particular emphasis is on the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Kyoto Protocol, and other key bilateral/multilateral agreements on mitigation and adaptation relevant to Canada and its major trading partners. Emergent topics related to climate governance, negotiations, and litigation will also be explored.
(Cross-listed with GEMCC 640)
SEM · Course ID 014511Archived pageGEOG 678 today
This course examines the anthropogenic sources of greenhouse gas emissions and the range of strategies to reduce these emissions and to enhance carbon sequestration. The policy frameworks governing climate change mitigation are critically appraised from geopolitical, economic and ethics perspectives. This course also considers the potential role of climate remediation strategies.
(Cross-listed with GEMCC 603)
SEM · Course ID 014507Archived pageGEOG 679 today
This course focuses on economic development for regions, communities and municipalities. We examine organizational structures and strategies that a community may employ to increase its capacity to control its destiny. Topics include: strategic economic planning, information management, partnerships, internet opportunities, entrepreneurship, incubators, tourism, sustainable development and healthy community initiatives. Finally, we critique various evaluation methods.
(Cross-listed with LED 685)
LEC · Course ID 001843Archived pageGEOG 685 today
An analysis of changing methods and philosophy of geographic research with emphasis on problem formulation and the design and evaluation of geographic research.
SEM · Course ID 001434Archived pageGEOG 690 today
Participation in departmental seminars; invited presentations by guest speakers, program faculty and students. Graded on a Cr/NCr basis
SEM · Course ID 001435Archived pageGEOG 691 today
The aim of this course is to provide academic credit for a foreign academic learning experience.This will take one of the following formats: study with a foreign expert, a specialized graduate course taken at a foreign institution, or a research/study project abroad conducted under the guidance of an approved advisor. In all instances the plan of study must be approved before a student leaves and in each case a final approved report must be submitted.
SEM · Course ID 010626Archived pageGEOG 692 today