Global Geography explores how human societies and physical environments are deeply connected and constantly changing. Students learn how to analyze global processes including urbanization, uneven development and inequality, migration and identity formation, and environmental change. The field allows students to combine approaches from the social sciences, humanities, and physical sciences to identify solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Ultimately, you will be equipped with skills that will prepare you for a career in Canada and abroad in areas such as government, journalism and media, development agencies, private-sector corporations and the non-profit sector.
Program Overview
As a Global Geography student, you will gain knowledge and skills through hands-on classroom activities, field- and lab-based exercises, and community engagement. You will acquire technical skills and experience in geographical information systems, data analysis, research methods, and field techniques, while also enhancing your communication, reasoning, and leadership skills to address societal and environmental challenges.
You have a variety of options on the types of degrees you wish to pursue. For example, you may wish to complete a 90-credit Bachelor of Science (BSc) which typically takes three years to finish, or a 120-credit degree (Honours BSc) which typically takes four years to complete. You have several choices on how to complete the Honours BSc program; for instance, you can double major or major/minor in two different programs.
Students will explore these critical global issues:
- Human migration and identities
- Economic development and inequalities
- Geopolitical power
- Global urbanization
- Flows of knowledge, culture, and data
- Changing global environments
The program (your major) is structured around a sequence of required core courses starting in your first year of study, as well as elective courses that you can choose. These core courses will provide the foundation to your scholarly and professional development in the program.
- The Land We’re On
- The World Today
- Weather and Climate
- The Dynamic Earth
- Elective courses of your choice. These can be used to start a double major or minor with your Global Geography degree.
- Global Urban Geography
- Migration and Displacement
- Introduction to Geomatics
- Technological Worlds: Geographies of Digital Capitalism
- Terrestrial Ecosystems
- Critical Geographies of Education
- Urban Environmental Justice
In addition to the first year core courses which focuses on building knowledge in the field and your academic skills, you will complete additional courses that include hands-on and field studies such as
- Field Studies in Physical Geography
- Research Design & Field Studies in Human Geography
- On Location: The Spatial Politics of Urban Placemaking
- Semester Abroad at the Las Nubes EcoCampus in Costa Rica
- Academic exchange with one of our partner universities worldwide
Career Path
With issues of globalization, urbanization, migration, sustainability, and equity at the forefront of the public consciousness, more organizations and businesses are looking to hire professionals with technical and transferrable skills developed by studying geography. Along with developing hands-on geographic knowledge and experiences, students utilize in-demand transferrable skills including critical thinking, analysis and interpretation of quantitative and qualitative data, and communication that expand career opportunities. Our graduates are working in both the public and private sectors in a variety of fields including education, business, finance and banking, science and technology, consulting, and government.
Sample Career
- Geo-demographic and Environmental Analyst
- Global Geography and Environmental Educator
- Conservation Planner
- Climatologist, Meteorologist
- GIS and Remote Sensing Analyst
- Government official (Municipal, Provincial, Federal level)
To help you succeed, our Experiential Education Coordinator provides a variety of career support services to our students including resume assistance, interview prep, and career planning workshops, and maintains an exclusive job board just for our students.
The Official Global Geography Playlist
Have you ever wondered... which songs represent #YorkUEUC programs the best? Listen to The Official Global Geography Playlist 🎶
Student Testimonials
Kira Jordun
3rd year Global Geography (BA)
Emily Carr Secondary School
The experiential learning opportunities offered within EUC have enabled me to build valuable connections with esteemed faculty and likeminded peers. These immersive experiences have not only equipped me with strong research skills but also instilled in me a passion for environmental stewardship, preparing me to make a tangible impact in the field.
Julian De Lisio
3rd year Cities, Regions, Planning (BES)
Father Bressani Catholic High School
Through the Cities, Regions, Planning and Schulich PMMP (4+1 Pathway) program, I aim to integrate urban planning principles with sustainable practices to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship, ensuring healthy ecosystems andvibrant communities.
Luisa Regina Anota Guzman
Sustainable Environmental Management (BES ‘24)
Masters in Environmental Studies Candidate
Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey
My time at the EUC has been transformative, making me feel like a true changemaker. As an international student, the welcoming community, experiential education courses, and networking opportunities have made me feel valued and helped bring my ideas, goals, and career plans to life.
Alumni Testimonials
Bachelor in Environmental Studies 2009
My journey has been driven by a passion for addressing climate change impacts, advocating for vulnerable communities and shaping international climate policy. From coordinating national climate strategies to negotiating on behalf of small island states, I’ve dedicated myself to environmental justice and sustainable development. I’m proud to have played a role in influencing global climate targets and continuing to champion critical issues in international discussions.
Bachelor in Environmental Studies 2019
[Getting involved within faculty-student programs] can be incredibly beneficial. These programs offer opportunities to build meaningful relationships beyond just academic acquaintanceships. Especially during stressful times, like navigating university life, having a supportive community can make all the difference. It's reassuring to know that others are facing similar challenges and that genuine connections can be formed.
Bachelor in Geography 2017
Bachelor in Environmental Studies 2018
Bachelor in Environmental Studies 2018
"The path to life is like entropy, order and disorder. The order is the instinctive pathway in life you choose, and the disorder is the variety of directions you take to achieve your goal."
Master of Science in Geography 2004
Bachelor in Environmental Studies 2020
“Take advantage of Student Counselling, Health & Well-being services. There are many resources available to students, ask questions and advocate for yourself, because there are staff and faculty who will help you along the way.”
Master in Environmental Studies 2022
I look at how film production integrates into community, movements, and society to create change
Bachelor in Geography 2014
My advice to students is to explore the variety of career paths that are available with a geography degree
PhD in Environmental Studies 2022
Bachelor in Environmental Studies 2012
"As you start and continue your journey at EUC, learn with a purpose because what you learn can be useful beyond your grades. Find ways to prove what you have learned in your classes and build on your learning with volunteer placements and internships. Finally, network and don’t forget to be a good friend to your peers along the way because these friendships may last you a lifetime."
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Key Contact Information
| Name | Title | Extension | Office No. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joseph Mensah | Professor | 66344 | HNES 229 | eucgg@yorku.ca |
| Brittany Giglio | Recruitment & Admission Officer | 22671 | HNES 125 | eucapply@yorku.ca |
| Sharrieffa Sattaur | Administrative and Records Assistant - Undergraduate Program | 30397 | HNES 130 | EUAdvise@yorku.ca |