Explore human and physical landscapes and their interconnections on the surface of the earth. Geography is a unique academic discipline because of its ability to integrate ideas and methods from many disciplines. It also concerns "spatial" or areal patterns, relationships and processes on the Earth's surface, and a focus on environmental studies.
This program is also offered at UBC's Vancouver Campus
Find out moreProgram information
Send details- Campus: Okanagan
- Faculty: Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science
- Degree: Bachelor of Arts
- Length 4 yrs
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Co-op
Yes
You can combine your studies with full-time, paid work at top local and international organizations.
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Honours
No
You can study intense specialization in a single field.
Geography is the study of human and physical landscapes on the surface of the earth, integrating ideas and methods from many different disciplines. Part of the Community, Culture, and Global Studies (CCGS) academic unit, the program emphasizes the development of theory and methodology, as well as the practical application of geographical concepts to environmental, economic, social, and cultural issues at global and local scales, and issues pertinent to southern British Columbia and Canada.
In the degree program, you’ll complete course requirements in both physical geography, and the broad range of human geography study.
Experiential learning and research
Your coursework offers opportunities to visit Kelowna-area field locations, including studying mountain hazards at a facility in the Canadian Cordillera. In third or fourth year you can undertake a supervised investigation as part of a directed studies course, which will result in a written report of your findings. The Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science holds an annual undergraduate research conference on UBC’s Okanagan campus to showcase student research projects.
What can you do with this major after graduation?
Send detailsYour future
A UBC education will introduce you to people and ideas from around the world, open doors to new opportunities, and take you places you never imagined. You’ll graduate not only with expertise in your chosen field, but with the skills you need to continue growing, learning, and evolving with your career over time.
UBC stories
"As someone who is interested in the humanities and social sciences, an Arts degree at UBC was perfect for me as it allowed me to broaden my knowledge through a variety of different classes, while gaining the necessary requirements for my career goals and graduate school."
Danielle G., Bachelor of Arts, Geography Read the full story
Program requirements
English-language requirements
English is the language of instruction at UBC. All prospective students must demonstrate English-language competency prior to admission. There are numerous ways to meet the English Language Admission Standard.
General admission requirements
IB Diploma Programme
- Completed IB Diploma, including at least three Higher Level courses.
IB Certificate Courses
- IB Certificate courses (Standard and Higher Level) may be used in an admissions average if you are graduating from a recognized high school curriculum that can be used as your basis of admission.
- IB Math Applications and Interpretations SL, or IB Math Studies, do not satisfy the math requirement for admission to UBC’s science-based programs, the Faculty of Management, the UBC Sauder School of Business, or the Vancouver School of Economics.
Degree-specific requirements: Arts
- No specific courses required beyond those needed for general admission
Related courses
The following subject categories are particularly relevant for this degree. Consider taking courses in these areas in your junior year and senior year.
- Language Arts
- Mathematics and Computation
- Second Languages
- Social Studies
- Visual and Performing Arts