This course examines the important elements of the global environment, emphasizing interactions between the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere and biosphere. Major topics include the global energy system, atmospheric and oceanic processes, hydrologic, tectonic and biogeochemical cycles, geomorphic processes and landforms, essential ecological concepts, as well as world soil and vegetation patterns. The tools and methods of study applied in the discipline of physical geography and the relationships of human-environment interactions are also considered.
Prerequisites
Admission to University Transfer program at VCC.
Course type
This course is offered as part of a VCC program and cannot be taken individually.
International students: Eligibility is determined at the program level. Visit the program page for international student requirements and application information.
- Physical geography essentials and themes: Earth’s form, motions and physical realms
- Tools and methodology in geography: Spatial data, maps and projections, GIS, remote sensing
- Global energy system: Atmospheric composition and structure, radiation and energy transfer
- Atmospheric and oceanic circulation: Pressure and wind systems, ocean currents
- Weather development: Hydrological cycle, precipitation processes, intense weather systems
- Climate controls and water balance: Climate classification and patterns, global climate change
- Earth crust and rock cycle: Minerals and rocks, plate tectonics, weathering and mass movements
- River processes and landforms: Fluvial geomorphology, surface runoff, stream flow and floods
- Wind-generated waves and landforms: Aeolian processes, deserts and coastal environments
- Glacial processes and landforms, Alpine and continental glaciers, periglacial landforms, ice ages
- Biosphere essentials: Ecological processes and systems, soil formation and global patterns
- Vegetation structure: Biogeogeaphy, plant adaptations, ecological succession and world biomes
Course schedules
Select your program to see the available course schedules.
How to take this course
This course is offered as part of a VCC program only.
Contact us
If you have any questions, please email at [email protected].
† This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.