Department of Geography & Geology
What is geography?
Geography is the captivating study of everything that shapes our world: mountains, oceans, rivers, and the atmosphere, as well as plants, animals, people, and places. Geographers also explore powerful natural phenomena like hurricanes, tornadoes, volcanoes, earthquakes, and tsunamis.
Humans are embedded in the world that surrounds us, and thus geography also encompasses vital topics such as sustainability, energy and resources, as well as food, housing, health, economics, conflict, and reconciliation. Geographers delve into technology, leadership, and stewardship, and highlight the deep connections we share with the world around us.
By seeing the world through a geographic lens, you’ll discover how amazing, unique and fragile our planet is, and how we impact it. With no "Planet B" to turn to, the sooner we understand how to live harmoniously with our environment and take care of the world around us, the better.
What is geology?
Geology is the literal foundation, upon which everything is built. The solid Earth beneath us is not so solid: it moves continuously, and over millenia mountains form. Sometimes change can be sudden and rapid, and we experience an earthquake, or a new volcano is born. Whether they be fast or slow, when processes inside the Earth decide it’s time for action, everything is affected. Geology is also the history of the Earth, since it first came into being over 4.5 billion years ago. To understand our planet, we need know what’s happening on the outside of the Earth, deep inside it, and how long it’s been happening.
When you take geography and geology at Langara you will learn about the Earth. Which classes you choose to take are completely up to you. When you’re done, you’ll be much better prepared to face the future, perhaps with a degree in geography or geology, or in any other area of study, or whatever path in life you choose.
International students: please go to https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/work/after-graduation/eligibility/field-of-study.html to learn how occupations in geography and geology are included in the Government of Canada's Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP). CIP codes reflect programs that provide pathways to Post Graduate Work Permits, based on long-term occupational shortages.
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