Physical Geography (Optional Co-op) (Direct Entry)

Physical Geography examines the natural and physical systems of the Earth including the atmosphere, biosphere, cryosphere (ice and snow), hydrosphere (water) and lithosphere (land surface). Physical geographers also look at the connections between these systems, how they change over time, and the implications of these changes.

Physical geography students choose from the following streams:

• Atmospheric Science: In the broadest sense, this is the study of the Earth's atmosphere (and other planetary atmospheres). The atmospheric science program in the Department of Environment and Geography mainly focuses on processes and phenomena associated with the Earth's troposphere (lowest portion of the atmosphere closest to the surface, where all weather occurs) with connections to the Earth's surface (heat, water, carbon dioxide transfers and other biophysical processes).
  

• Geomatics: Geomatics is an emerging field referring to the techniques of spatial data acquisition, handling and analysis. Included within this field have been geographic applications of computer analysis and spatial modeling, spatial statistics, remote sensing technology and geographic information systems.
  

• General physical geography: Physical geography includes the study of the environment through aspects of atmospheric science, geomorphology, biogeography and hydrology. All of which draw upon the natural and applied sciences to understand the natural environment.