DEPARTMENT
OF GEOGRAPHY
Degree of Bachelor of Arts in
Geography Requirements
The
course of study for the degree of Bachelor of Arts in Geography takes four years.
The minimum requirements for the degree are 128 semester hours. A candidate must
complete his/her general education requirements as prescribed by the University
of Liberia. He/she is required to earn 40 semester hours in his/her major area,
18 semester hours in the minor, 3 semester hours each of electives in Sociology
/Economics and Geography and 6 semester hours in English during his/her last two
years. Students wishing to major in Geography must satisfy the core course requirements.
In addition, they must write a thesis (Geog 415). The topic for the thesis will
be approved at the beginning of the first semester of the student's senior year
in order to give the student the possibility of carrying out comprehensive research
work outside the University, within Liberia. The student should register for the
course in the first semester.
Students
wishing to major in Geography should inform the Chairman of the Department of
Geography at the end of their freshman year.
Course
Description
Geog.
100 - Map Reading I
(Pre-requisite:
Sophomore Standing)
This
course is an introduction to the different types of maps, and the symbols and
scales of maps. Diagrams, tables and graphs will be studied for their compilation
and values. A section of the course will deal with surveying instruments.
Credit:
3 credits/semester
Geog.
101 - Fundamentals of Geography I
Introductory
course in Geography with emphasis on understanding of Geography as Science. The
scope of the course covers the need and purpose of Geography; Geography as the
study of areal differentiation. scientific laws, descriptions and explanation
geography, geographic determinism, dualism of Physical and Human Geography, regional
concept In Geography, systematic* in Geography, challenges and opportunities In
Geography.
Credit:
3 credits/semester
Geog.
200 - Map Reading 11
Following
the first map reading course, this is a more practical study of drawing techniques
and cartography, with a special section dealing with projections. Thematic maps
will be produced, and map interpretation will embrace all types of maps Including
air photos. A study of recent maps of Liberia will be made.
Credit:
3 credits/semester
Geog.
202 - Fundamentals of Geography II
This
course is a continuation of Geog. 101. It explores in details the scientific method
and Its application in Geography. It therefore deals With the structuring of Geographic
relationships, formulation of hypotheses, hypotheses testing and law, theory formulation,
classification, resource appreciation, location and uses of land, regional Geography
and theory of regions, contemporary trends in Geography.
Credit:
3 credits /semester
Geog.
217 - Physical Environmental Systems
(Pre-requisite: For all Geography
courses)
Introductory
course on the understanding of the physical milieu. Covers physical features of
the earth, climate and various geomorphic and climatological processes that shape
the physical environment as the home of man.
Credit:
3 credits/semester
Geog.
314 - Quantitative Techniques
(P re-requisite: For all Geography courses)
Provides
quantitative skill, which is a sine qua non for scientific investigation in Geography.
Helps collection, analysis and interpretation of Geographic data. The course comprises
3 main parts:
