Physical Geography Bachelor of Science

UFV's Bachelor of Science in Physical Geography provides you with a strong background in natural sciences, a comprehensive understanding of factors affecting the environment, and hands-on expertise in gathering, analyzing, and evaluating data.

Physical Geography major

This Bachelor of Science major introduces you to the different sub-fields of physical geography including: climatology, geomorphology, biogeography, and geographic information systems (GIS).

You begin your studies by learning about the earth's physical environment and various phenomena and understanding how these are affected by human activity.

In your third and fourth year, you can choose from a variety of physical and human geography topics that interest you. You can specialize in one or more sub-fields of Physical Geography, including climatology, geomorphology, biogeography, or geographic information systems (GIS).

Throughout your major, you get to formulate your own research questions and take what you've learned in the classroom and apply in the field.

The physical geography major is a good option if you are considering a Masters of Science in Geography, Earth Sciences, or a related field.

• See the program outline in the UFV Academic Calendar.
• View geography course descriptions in the UFV Academic Calendar.

Physical Geography minor

Learn the science behind how the earth was formed and functions and develop strategies to solve real-world environmental issues.

With a hands-on learning approach, you are exposed to various field techniques and learn how to conduct your own field research.

• View the program outline in the UFV Academic Calendar.
• View geography course descriptions in the UFV Academic Calendar.

Physical Geography Honours

The Geography Honours program is designed for students who have performed at a high level throughout their studies and plan on applying to graduate school or are looking for additional research experiences for employment.

The Honours program requires that you develop a working relationship with a professor who will supervise your thesis and oversee your Honours project. They also assist you with any questions that you may have in completing your project.

• For more information, please visit the Geography Honours program page.
• See the entrance requirements and program outline for the Physical Geography Honours program.

Additional Opportunities

Join the School of Land Use and Environmental Change Student Association (SLUECSA) and make new connections. SLUECSA provides a social hub for geography students and organizes many events such as hiking and ski trips, skating parties, and pub nights.

Make your voice heard on campus and join the Sustainable UFV team. If you are passionate about the environment, Sustainable UFV welcomes you to share your ideas on what UFV's priorities should be and what strategies could be used to green the UFV campus.

Gain a competitive edge after graduation and apply your classroom learning through co-op job placements. Co-op jobs help you develop the skills to build a résumé, expand your professional network, and earn money. You can work in a four-, eight-, or twelve-month work term, full-time or part-time, and can declare co-op as an option on your transcript. Attend a co-op info session, drop in at the Career Centre, or discuss your plans with an Arts advisor to take the first steps towards securing paid work experience in your field.

• B.C. high school graduation or equivalent;
• Or completion of a minimum of nine UFV or transferable post-secondary credits with a minimum 2.00 GPA (C average) based on all credits attempted;
• Or a minimum of 19 years of age by the start of the first class;
• Or, for admission into preparatory level programs only, a minimum of 17 years of age and out of high school for at least one year by the start of the semester.

In its Skills for Success report, the Conference Board of Canada identified physical science professionals as one of the top 25 occupations likely to experience skills shortages in upcoming years. A Bachelor of Science in Geography prepares you to meet the surging demand in this field.

You may find employment in government agencies that have environment, conservation, or natural resources portfolios; environmental consulting firms; surveying or engineering firms; natural exploration firms; forestry companies; and more.

Set yourself apart and pair your Geography major with another in-demand subject such as French, Chemistry, or Math, to prepare for a rewarding career in education through UFV's enriched Teacher Education program.