Dec 21, 2024  
2024-25 Western Washington University Catalog 
    
2024-25 Western Washington University Catalog

Geography Minor


Department of Environmental Studies, College of the Environment

25 credits

Introduction

Geography is the science of place and space. Geographers ask where things are located on the surface of the Earth, why they are located where they are, how places differ from one another, and how people interact with the natural environment. Natural and human systems vary over space and many environmental issues are therefore inherently spatial. Environmental Geography links together the social sciences and natural sciences, studying the relationships between human activity and natural systems. We draw on knowledge from many different fields of study to give us the big picture view of how and why cultural and natural landscapes vary over space. We make extensive use of maps, complex spatial datasets, and technology to aid our understanding of the world.

Why Consider a Geography Minor?

Do you wonder about how human and natural environments vary across the world? Are you curious about how the interactions and interdependencies between human and natural systems? Do you love maps? Are you comfortable with spatial problem solving? If so, then Geography will be a great minor for you! Come join us as we work together to understand our world!

 Contact Information

Department Chair
Rebekah Paci-Green
Arntzen Hall 206
360-650-2707
Rebekah.Paci-Green@wwu.edu

College of the Environment 
Professional Advisor

Kathryn Patrick
Environmental Studies 539
360-650-3520
Kathryn.Patrick@wwu.edu

Program Advisor
Andrew Bach
Arntzen Hall 226
360-650-4774
Andy.Bach@wwu.edu

 Sample Careers

Cartographer | GIS Analyst | Tourism Industry Professional | Water Resource Manager | Park Ranger | Restoration and Conservation Analyst | Forest Service Employee | Educator

 Major/Career Resources

careercenter.wwu.edu/connectmajorcareer

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

Some courses in the minor may be restricted to ENVS declared majors and minors.

To declare a minor, set up an appointment with a professional adviser on our Undergrad Academic Advising website cenv.wwu.edu/academic-advising, by visiting the College of the Environment Student Support office in Environmental Studies Building 539, or by calling 360-650-3520.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.

Requirements


Geography Core (8 credits)


Electives (17 credits)


❑ 17 Elective credits of coursework form the lists below. We strongly encourage you to take at least one course in each of the three knowledge areas listed below: