Geography

geography Overview

Geography is the window through which we gain a deeper understanding of our world. Our Geography program invites you to embark on a fascinating journey of exploration, where you will delve into the intricacies of human interaction with the Earth. We focus on identifying spatial and temporal variations in both natural and human processes, providing you with valuable insights into our planet's past, present, and future.

Success Resources

Geography is the bridge that connects us to the Earth's landscapes, cultures, and environments. Our Geography program invites you to explore the dynamic relationship between humanity and our planet, providing you with the tools to analyze, understand, and contribute to the world's sustainability. Whether you aspire to be an environmental advocate, urban planner, or simply wish to deepen your global awareness, SJCC offers you the opportunity to embark on this enriching journey. 

Department Contacts

  • Humanities, Social Sciences, and Arts Division
  • (408) 288-3785
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student learning outcomes

  • Describe what makes Earth habitable using knowledge of its physical geographical characteristics.

  • Articulate a working knowledge of latitude, longitude, globes, map projections, internet map, legend, and graph information.

  • Classify and analyze climates, landforms, regions, and processes and describe their construction and correlation.

  • Analyze the effects of human-environment interactions and assess their past, present, and future impacts, and the human actions which reduce, eliminate, or remediate the effects.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

The Geography program at SJCC explores the dynamic relationship between humanity and the planet, emphasizing the identification of spatial and temporal variations in both natural and human processes. Students gain insights into Earth's physical characteristics, climates, landforms, regions, and the interconnections among these elements. 

SJCC offers an Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) degree in Geography. This degree meets the lower division course requirements necessary for transfer to the California State University (CSU) system, preparing students for advanced studies in geography and related fields. 

The curriculum includes courses such as:

  • GEOG 010: Introduction to Physical Geography: Studies Earth's physical environment, focusing on atmosphere, weather, climate, landform formation, vegetation, and human-induced changes.
  • GEOG 011: Introduction to Cultural Geography: Explores human elements of geography, including population distribution, land use patterns, religion, language, trade, economics, migration, and political landscapes.
  • GEOG 012: World Regions in Global Context: Examines the geography of world regions, analyzing their physical and cultural landscapes within a global context.

Specific prerequisites may vary by course. It's recommended to consult the SJCC course catalog or speak with an academic advisor to determine any required prerequisites before enrolling.

Graduates are prepared for roles such as urban planners, environmental consultants, GIS specialists, transportation analysts, and positions in education, business, and governmental agencies. The program equips students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills relevant to various careers.