MCC Geography Courses

GEOG 101A Physical Geography—4 Cr. Hrs. – 5 Contact Hrs. (5 hours Integrated Lecture and Lab) Physical Geography is a course study in Earth Systems Science; the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and surface features of the lithosphere. The course work focuses on the development of geographic models and their use as a tool to explain phenomena in man’s physical environment.

GEOG 102C Cultural Geography—4 Cr. Hrs. – 4 Contact Hrs. A study of the world’s people and how they occupy the earth. Important topics include: population density and distribution, languages, religions, political systems and international relations, economic systems, and urbanization.

GEOG 105 World Regional Geography—3 Cr. Hrs. – 3 Contact hrs. World regional geography is an introductory examination of the major cultural realms of the world—areas which share similar cultural and economic conditions. The physical environment and human impact on that environment will also be studied for each region. Units of study may include: Anglo-America, Europe, Russia and her neighbors, sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa/Southwest Asia, Monsoon Asia, East Asia, and middle and South America. A previous course in physical or human geography would be helpful, but is not mandatory.

GEOG 215 Introduction to Weather and Climate—4 Cr. Hrs. – 5 Contact Hrs. (5 Hrs. Integrated Lecture and Lab). This course is an introductory study of the atmosphere which includes both weather and climate. Fundamental physical laws governing weather elements will be examined; such as solar radiation, temperature, moisture, pressure, winds, and weather systems. Current weather data is delivered via the internet, which is coordinated with learning activities. Students will be introduced to the excitement of weather in near real-time. Broad aspects of climates and local microclimatology will also be integrated. An optional field trip to the National Weather Service Office, Grand Rapids may be offered. No prerequisites, although physical geography and the knowledge of basic computer skills including the ability to manipulate images are  recommended.