Geoscience, Physical Geography

Your planet needs you

Your planet needs you

Are you passionate about environmental issues and wish to help solve problems such as global warming, pollution, and food scarcity?

Studying physical geography and learning about the physical features of the earth and the processes found in the natural environment can prepare you to take up challenges like climate change and sustainable development.

UFV’s Bachelor of Science in Physical Geography provides you with a strong background in natural sciences, a comprehensive understanding of factors affecting the environment, and hands-on expertise in gathering, analyzing, and evaluating data. You get to specialize in one or more sub-fields of Physical Geography, including climatology, geomorphology, biogeography, or geographic information systems (GIS).

As a physical geography student at UFV, you have exciting opportunities to work with dedicated professors to conduct original lab and field-based research as early as your first-year, in topics as diverse as urban planning, food security, paleoecology, data luminescence, global development, and climate change.

In addition, optional paid co-op work placements throughout your studies can help you gain valuable work experience and get references for employment or graduate studies.

A Bachelor of Science with a major in Geography is excellent preparation for a Master of Science in Geography, Earth Sciences, Environmental Studies, or related fields. Choose the honours option to gain additional research experience, which you can feature on your résumé or graduate school application.

Career Outlook for Physical Geography

In its Skills for Success report, the Conference Board of Canada identified physical science professionals as one of the top 25 occupations likely to experience skills shortages in upcoming years. A Bachelor of Science in Geography prepares you to meet the surging demand in this field.

You may find employment in government agencies that have environment, conservation, or natural resources portfolios; environmental consulting firms; surveying or engineering firms; natural exploration firms; forestry companies; and more.

Set yourself apart and pair your geography major with another in-demand subject such as French, Chemistry, or Math, to prepare for a rewarding career in education through UFV's enriched Teacher Education program.