Geography (GPHY)

GPHY 111. Intro to Physical Geography. 4 Credits.

This course introduces basic concepts of geology, astronomy, meteorology, and physical geography including identification of rocks, minerals, and common geological formations. The course includes both lecture and laboratory hours. This course meets the laboratory science requirement.
Course Fees: $5.35

GPHY 192. Independant Study. 3 Credits.

Provides an opportunity for students to engage in directed research and study on an individual basis rather than in a formal class environment.

GPHY 351. Technology in GIS. 3 Credits.

This course explores the integration of emerging geospatial technologies with GIS to support large-scale surface and subsurface mapping, spatial data acquisition, and environmental analysis. Students will gain hands-on experience with Unmanned Arial Systems (UAS/drones),high-accuracy GPS/GNSS surveying, and complementary field mapping tools used in research, resource management, and planning. The course covers flight planning, drone safety and regulations, data capture workflows, digital surface model generation, and structure-from-motion photogrammetry. Students will also learn approaches for subsurface mapping, including geophysical survey methods and ground-penetrating sensors, and how to integrate these datasets into a GIS environment. By the end of the course, students will be able to design and implement field data collection strategies, process and manage large geospatial datasets, and apply these technologies to real-world spatial problem solving.

GPHY 352. Vector GIS. 3 Credits.

This course introduces the concepts, methods, and applications of vector-based Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with a focus on spatial analysis and modeling. Students will develop proficiency in working with vector data structures, attribute data management, geocoding, and network datasets. Through hands-on projects, students will learn to design and execute spatial analyses to solve real-world problems, including suitability modeling, spatial pattern interpretation, and route network optimization. Emphasis is placed on data acquisition, data quality assessment, and effective cartographic communication of analytical results. By the end of the course, students will be able to build, analyze, and interpret vector GIS models. Prerequisite: GPHY 380.

GPHY 353. Raster GIS. 3 Credits.

This course focuses on the principles and applications of raster-based Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for environmental analysis, spatial modeling, and surface data interpretation. Students will learn how raster data are structured, stored, processed, and visualized, with emphasis on digital elevation models (DEMs), land cover datasets, remotely sensed imagery, and continuous surface modeling. Through hands-on exercises, students will perform map algebra, terrain and hydrological modeling, image classification, and spatiotemporal analysis. The course emphasizes best practices in raster data management, resolution and scale considerations, and effecitve communication of analytical results. By the end of the course, students will be able to design and implement raster-based models to support research and decision making. Prerequisite: GPHY 380.

GPHY 357. GPS Fundamentals/Apps in Mapng. 3 Credits.

This course is a study of global positioning systems (GPS) technology and how it can be used in agriculture, outdoor activities, orienteering, land resources, transportation and in a large number of other applications. Class participants will use handheld and mapping grade GPS receivers and become familiar with GPS data collection, DGPS or differential correction, processing of spatial data, map types, coordinate grinds, map datum, and waypoints. Students will learn how to link GPS receivers with computers and equipment, manage GPS data with software, upload and download coordinate information and create printouts of spatial data, locations and routes.

GPHY 380. Principles of GIS. 3 Credits.

This course provides an introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) as a tool for collecting, managing, analyzing, and visualizing spatial data. Students will explore the fundamental concepts and methods used in GIS, with a balanced focus on both vector and raster data models. Topics include spatial data types, coordinate systems and map projections, data acquisition, data management, and basic cartographic principles. Emphasis is placed on understanding when and why to use vector versus raster approaches to solve real-world problems. No Prior GIS or GPS experience is required.

GPHY 392. Independent Study. 3 Credits.