Environmental Processes: Principles and Applications

The course explores the fundamental principles and applications of knowledge related to the surface of the earth in the sub-disciplines of geomorphology, climatology and hydrology. Systems studied include landforms, glaciers, climate, and rivers. The main objective of the course is to explain the spatial and temporal characteristics, and the interaction between these systems in an interdisciplinary manner by drawing extensively from New Zealand examples.

15 points

Any 30 points of 100-level Geography, or entry with approval of the Head of Department

GEOG201 prior to 2009.

Introduction to Geographic Information Systems and Science

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) provide the tools for gathering, managing, analysing and presenting spatial information in an intuitive and graphical way. This course provides students with an introduction to the fundamental concepts, principles and techniques of GIS.

15 points

45 points at 100-level or above, from any degree schedule.

DIGI205 and GISC422

Remote sensing for geospatial analysis

This course provides an introduction to remote sensing data for geospatial analysis. Students will develop skills for the acquisition of data from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and satellites. Practical work focuses on the preparation of data for use in a Geographic information system (GIS), while laboratory exercises will introduce a range of analytic software that can be used to prepare and examine remotely sensed data.

15 points

Any 30 points of 100-level Science, Engineering or Commerce

GEOG313

Environmental Science and Resource Management

This course explores the debates and issues in environmental science and resource management around the core theme of agriculture and the environment. There is an emphasis on developing solutions to environmental issues. The course takes a quantitative approach to environmental issues, teaching students to make informed decisions that integrate biophysical data with policies and practices of management in New Zealand and global contexts. Students will learn to recognise patterns and processes in agricultural environments, and gain an understanding of how those patterns and processes influence and are influenced by resource management decisions. Students will develop an awareness of biculturalism in Aotearoa New Zealand as it applies to environmental issues associated with agriculture, recognising that Maori values may be distinct to regulatory guidelines regarding environmental quality. Matauranga Maori aspects of agriculture and the environment will be covered.

15 points

(GEOG110 and GEOG106) or (ENVR101 and GEOG106) and 15 points of CHEM, GEOL or BIOL. OR entry with approval of the Head of School.

GEOG206, ENVR201, ENVR209

Mountain Weather and Climates

This course provides a field and practical based approach to understanding contemporary mountain climates. Investigating how mountains modify weather systems and impact the local climate is essential in forecasting how New Zealand will be impacted by climate change. The course is centered on lectures and a residential field trip to the Cass Basin, Arthurs Pass. The learning is mostly project oriented and includes the development of a project from the initial idea, through the development of the skills and techniques required to conduct the fieldwork and produce a written project report. Assessment is based on a combination of assessed practicals and the field work research project report.

15 points

GEOG106 or ENVR101 or 15 points from CHEM, PHYS, GEOL, BIOL, ASTR, MATH at 100-level

The EU, Globalization and Migration

This course addresses international migration as one of the most pressing and formative issues which shape both European integration, and the relationships of Europe with the rest of the world. It addresses the economic, social, political and policy aspects of international migration in the changing EU and global contexts. The course has particular resonance for students in New Zealand, a country whose society has substantially been shaped by migration to and from Europe and the rest of the world.

15 points

Any 30 points of 100-level Geography, or any 90 points approved by the Head of Department.

EURO223, EURA223

Environmental Hazards and Disasters

This course provides an understanding of environmental hazards and disasters, with a particular focus on flooding and coastal hazards and the related impacts on human communities. Examples will be drawn from New Zealand, which will include a consideration of Maori experiences of and responses to disasters, and from overseas.

15 points

30 points of Geography or Geological Sciences at 100 level; or 30 points from Science, Arts, Commerce, or Engineering.

GEOG305

Places for Wellbeing and Flourishing

An examination of how places shape human wellbeing and flourishing, in both positive and less than positive ways. With a focus on settler colonial nations, we will examine the significant variations that exist between places in terms of the housing, work, education and support opportunities available within them. We consider the impact of these variations for local wellbeing and flourishing, noting the uneven experiences of particular social groups. We also examine place-based interventions that may support local wellbeing and flourishing, and selection of methods to evaluate these interventions. The course draws on the insights of human geography and engages with the contemporary lived experience of places in Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond.

15 points

Any 30 points at 100 level from any subject, normally including GEOG110 or GEOG106.

Transport, Urban Development and Wellbeing

Nau mai ki GEOG222 - welcome to GEOG222. Transport fundamentally shapes our communities and affects our wellbeing. This course examines the role and influence of transport in shaping our towns and cities, and affecting our personal wellbeing. The course will have a particular focus on how transport and urban development can help face challenges like climate change. The course will also look at issues related to Maori, for example, how has urbanisation affected their wellbeing. As well as gaining increased understanding of transport, urban development and wellbeing through traditional learning approaches, students will also learn from transport, urban development and health professionals. They will develop a range of practical, applied and transferrable skills by addressing real world problems and present findings in both written and oral formats.

15 points

45 pts of 100 level including GEOG110 or GEOG106