The Bachelor of Science with a major in geography requires a minimum of 120 s.h., including at least 45-48 s.h. of work for the major. Credit required for the major depends on a student's choice of track. Students must maintain a g.p.a. of at least 2.00 in all courses for the major and in all UI courses for the major. They also must complete the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences General Education Program. Transfer students must earn a minimum of 15 s.h. for the major in residence at the University of Iowa.

Geography majors may not earn the minor in geographic information science.

The major in geography is appropriate preparation for advanced training or careers in geographical and sustainability sciences. Students with strong interest in quantitative analysis and model building should pursue the Bachelor of Science and are encouraged to master an appropriate computer programming language.

Students choose one of three tracks in the major: environmental studies, geographic information science (GISci), or health and society. All students majoring in geography complete a common set of foundation courses in addition to the requirements for their choice of track. Bachelor of Science students take additional mathematics course work.

Consistent with the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences maximum semester hours rule, students may count a maximum of 56 s.h. earned in their major department toward graduation.

The B.S. with a major in geography requires the following work.

Common Requirements17-22
Statistics, Mathematics or Computer Science Courses10
Track Courses15-19

Common Requirements

Students may not use a course to fulfill more than one major requirement.

One of these:
GEOG:1010Introduction to Human Geography3
GEOG:1090Globalization and Geographic Diversity3
All of these:
GEOG:1020The Global Environment3
GEOG:1021The Global Environment Lab1
GEOG:1050Foundations of GIS3
One of these:
GEOG:1060Geography of Asia: From Japan to Pakistan3
GEOG:1070Contemporary Environmental Issues3
GEOG:1090Globalization and Geographic Diversity (if not chosen above)3
GEOG:2110/GHS:2110Seven Billion and Counting: Introduction to Population Dynamics3
GEOG:2130World Cities3
GEOG:2910The Global Economy3
GEOG:2950Environmental Conservation3
One of these (not required for GISci track students):
GEOG:3340Ecosystem Services: Human Dependence on Natural Systems3
GEOG:3500Introduction to Environmental Remote Sensing3
GEOG:3520GIS for Environmental Studies3
GEOG:3540Introduction to Geographic Visualization3
GEOG:3560Spatial Analyses of Wind Energy3
GEOG:3570Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR): Principles and Applications3
GEOG:4010Field Methods in Physical Geography3
GEOG:4020Field Methods: Mapping and Mobile Computing3
GEOG:4150/GHS:4150Health and Environment: GIS Applications3
GEOG:4650Simulation in Environmental Geography3
GEOG:5129/CEE:5129/ECE:5129/IE:5129/ME:5129Information Systems for Resource Management3
One of these:
GEOG:4030Senior Project Seminar (offered only in spring semesters)3
GEOG:4995Honors Thesis (must enroll for 3 s.h. and make arrangements with a faculty advisor)3
One of these (at least 1 s.h. required):
GEOG:3400Iowa Environmental Policy in Practice3
GEOG:3992Undergraduate Research (including ICIGO or independent research)arr.
CCP:1201Academic Internship1-3

Senior Project Seminar (GEOG:4030) is offered only in spring semesters. Students who choose GEOG:4995 Honors Thesis must make arrangements with a faculty advisor.

The Department of Geographical and Sustainability Sciences is a participant in the University's internship program, which provides opportunities for students to participate in paid and unpaid activities related to their academic programs. The Pomerantz Career Center works with students to develop appropriate internships.

Statistics, Mathematics or Computer Science Courses

Students must earn a minimum of 10 s.h. in statistics, mathematics or computer science course work by completing the following. Equivalent courses and courses with a higher course number also may be selected in consultation with, and approval by an advisor.

Students who complete the GIS track may not double count their required computer science courses for the statistics, mathematics or computer science courses requirement.

Both of these:
STAT:2010Statistical Methods and Computing3
STAT:3200/IE:3760/IGPI:3200Applied Linear Regression3
One of these:
CS:1210Computer Science I: Fundamentals4
CS:2110Programming for Informatics4
CS:2230Computer Science II: Data Structures4
MATH:1460Calculus for the Biological Sciences4
MATH:1380Calculus and Matrix Algebra for Business4

Tracks

All geography majors must complete one of the three tracks described below: environmental studies, geographic information science (GISci), or health and society. Students should pay close attention to prerequisites for the upper-level courses in each track in order to develop a study plan that allows them to complete their major in a timely way.

Students in the environmental studies or health and society track who wish to gain additional experience in theory and application of geographic information systems (GIS) should take GIS-based courses offered by the Department of Geographical and Sustainability Sciences, as described for each track below.

Students may use GEOG:3001 Special Topics to fulfill a track requirement if the course content is applicable.

Environmental Studies Track

The environmental studies track requires a minimum of 15 s.h. It is designed for students interested in the interrelationships among social and natural processes that affect the environment. The track prepares students for careers or pursuit of personal interests in resource management, landscape ecology, water resources, environmental policy or law, global environmental change, sustainable development, or other complex environmental issues. Graduates may find employment in an environmental profession such as conservation, environmental planning and regulation, or environmental law, policy, and politics.

The environmental studies track offers training in field observation, remote sensing, geographical information systems, quantitative analysis/computing, and cartographic representation. It also provides a sound foundation for graduate or professional-level studies in the natural or social aspects of the environment.

In addition to the common requirements, students in the environmental studies track complete a common track course (3 s.h.) and at least 12 s.h. of upper-level geographical and sustainability sciences courses.

Common course—all environmental studies track students take this:
GEOG:1070Contemporary Environmental Issues3

Students choose a total of four upper-level courses (at least 12 s.h.) from the following, in consultation with their advisor. Those who wish to gain additional experience in theory and application of GIS systems should take GEOG:3520 GIS for Environmental Studies and GEOG:4520 GIS for Environmental Studies: Applications, or they should earn 6 s.h. in other GIS-based geographical and sustainability sciences courses.

At least one of these:
GEOG:2310/EES:2310Introduction to Climatology3
GEOG:2374/BIOL:2374Biogeography3
GEOG:2410Environment and Development3
GEOG:2930Water Resources3
GEOG:3500Introduction to Environmental Remote Sensing3
GEOG:3520GIS for Environmental Studies3
At least one of these:
GEOG:3210/CPH:3400Health, Work, and the Environment3
GEOG:3310Landscape Ecology3
GEOG:3320/EES:3260Wetlands: Function, Geography, and Management3
GEOG:3340Ecosystem Services: Human Dependence on Natural Systems3
GEOG:3350Urban Ecology3
GEOG:3400Iowa Environmental Policy in Practice3
GEOG:3560Spatial Analyses of Wind Energy3
GEOG:3750Environmental Quality: Science, Technology, and Policy3
GEOG:3760/GHS:3760Hazards and Society3
GEOG:3920/URP:3001Planning Livable Cities3
GEOG:4010Field Methods in Physical Geography3
GEOG:4500Applications in Environmental Remote Sensing4
GEOG:4520GIS for Environmental Studies: Applications3
GEOG:4650Simulation in Environmental Geography3
GEOG:4750/URP:4750Environmental Impact Analysis4
GEOG:4770Environmental Justice3

Geographic Information Science Track

The geographic information science track (GISci) requires a minimum of 18-19 s.h. It is designed for students preparing for positions in government agencies, nongovernment organizations, international development agencies, and business. It also provides preparation for graduate study in geography, planning, and other disciplines. The track focuses on the design, implementation, and use of geographic information systems. Courses address how geographic data are acquired, stored, accessed, displayed, managed, and analyzed.

Students in the geographic information science track learn to address problems involved in modeling environmental systems, identifying the best locations for service facilities, assessing environmental impacts, and forecasting the populations of small areas. They use the department's Geographical Information Systems Instructional Lab (GISIL) extensively to develop expertise in using GIS software.

Course work in the track covers methods of spatial analysis and geographical modeling and involves database management and computer programming.

In addition to the common requirements, students in the geographic information science track complete a common track course (3-4 s.h.) and at least 15 s.h. of upper-level geographical and sustainability sciences courses.

Common course—all GISci track students take one of these:
CS:1110Introduction to Computer Science3
CS:1210Computer Science I: Fundamentals4
CS:2110Programming for Informatics4

Students choose a total of five upper-level courses (at least 15 s.h.) from the following, in consultation with their advisor. GISci track students are encouraged to add breadth to their degree by taking additional upper-level courses in the department. Students interested in the application of GIS to environmental issues should select additional courses from the department's environmental studies area; those interested in health or other socioeconomic issues should select additional courses from the department's health and society area.

At least one of these:
GEOG:3500Introduction to Environmental Remote Sensing3
GEOG:3520GIS for Environmental Studies3
GEOG:3540Introduction to Geographic Visualization3
GEOG:4650Simulation in Environmental Geography3
At least one of these:
GEOG:4500Applications in Environmental Remote Sensing4
GEOG:4520GIS for Environmental Studies: Applications3
GEOG:4570Spatial Analysis and Location Models3
GEOG:4580Introduction to Geographic Databases3
At least one of these:
GEOG:3340Ecosystem Services: Human Dependence on Natural Systems3
GEOG:3560Spatial Analyses of Wind Energy3
GEOG:3760/GHS:3760Hazards and Society3
GEOG:4010Field Methods in Physical Geography3
GEOG:4020Field Methods: Mapping and Mobile Computing3
GEOG:4150/GHS:4150Health and Environment: GIS Applications3

Health and Society Track

The health and society track requires a minimum of 15 s.h. It is designed for students interested in understanding the causes and consequences of social inequalities, the long-term effects that changing human/environmental interactions have on human health, and emerging transnational challenges to the sustainability of livelihoods. The track provides students with foundational knowledge and skills to support postgraduate employment in governmental or nongovernmental positions, graduate study in public health or in health-related fields, and service experiences such as the Peace Corps and AmeriCorps.

Students gain understanding of the factors and processes that determine geographic patterns of health. They explore the effects of the social, built, and natural environments on the physical, social, and mental health of populations. Course work in the track examines patterns and causes of infectious and chronic diseases; hazards, vulnerability, and environmental justice; and the spatial methods used to understand such issues. 

Thematic content from courses is complemented by quantitative, spatial, and statistical analysis course work, enabling students to analyze and understand geographic patterns of health. Students have opportunities to work on applied problems, such as assessing patterns of disease, identifying the underlying population and environmental drivers of good or poor health, and evaluating the social dimensions of environmental impacts.

In addition to satisfying the common requirements, students in the health and society track complete three common track courses (9 s.h.) and at least two upper-level geographical and sustainability sciences courses (6 s.h.).

Common courses—all health and society track students take these:
GEOG:2110/GHS:2110Seven Billion and Counting: Introduction to Population Dynamics3
GEOG:3110/GHS:3111Geography of Health3
GEOG:4150/GHS:4150Health and Environment: GIS Applications3

Students choose two upper-level courses (at least 6 s.h.) from the following, in consultation with their advisor. Those who wish to gain additional experience in theory and application of GIS systems should also take an additional 6 s.h. in GIS-based geographical and sustainability sciences courses.

At least two of these:
GEOG:3070/GHS:3070Hungry Planet: Global Geographies of Food3
GEOG:3210/CPH:3400Health, Work, and the Environment3
GEOG:3760/GHS:3760Hazards and Society3
GEOG:3920/URP:3001Planning Livable Cities3
GEOG:4770Environmental Justice3

B.S. with Teacher Licensure

Majors interested in earning licensure to teach in elementary and/or secondary schools must complete the College of Education's Teacher Education Program (TEP) in addition to the requirements for the major and all requirements for graduation. The TEP requires several College of Education courses and student teaching. Contact the Office of Student Services for details.

Students must satisfy all degree requirements and complete Teacher Education Program licensure before degree conferral.

Honors in the Major

Students have the opportunity to graduate with honors in the major. Departmental honors students must maintain a cumulative University of Iowa g.p.a. of at least 3.33 and a g.p.a. of at least 3.33 in all work for the major. They must be admitted to the department's honors program by the first semester of their senior year or earlier.

Honors students in geography pursue study beyond the typical undergraduate level. In order to graduate with honors in the major, they work under the direction of a faculty member to conduct original research and then prepare and present an honors thesis based on their research. The thesis is reviewed by a committee of at least three faculty members. Departmental honors students earn credit for their thesis by registering for GEOG:4995 Honors Thesis. They may substitute GEOG:4030 Senior Project Seminar for GEOG:4995, as long as they continue to work on the thesis under the direction of a faculty member.

University of Iowa Honors Program

In addition to honors in the major, students have opportunities for honors study and activities through membership in the University of Iowa Honors Program. Visit Honors at Iowa to learn about the University's honors program.

Membership in the UI Honors Program is not required to earn honors in the geography major.

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences General Education Program provides students with a broad foundation of knowledge and a focused practice of transferable skills necessary for a lifetime of learning.

General Education courses are particularly valuable for students making the transition into the University of Iowa. They help students understand the expectations of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences while providing the tools needed for more advanced academic work in the major.

All students in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences who wish to earn an undergraduate degree—Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.), or Bachelor of Music (B.M.)—must complete the requirements of the CLAS General Education Program.

General Education Areas and Requirements

The General Education Program has 11 required areas, grouped into three categories. Students must fulfill the requirements in each General Education area. The requirements below are for students who enter the University of Iowa during Summer 2017 or after. Students who entered during a previous semester are held to different requirements as indicated on the student's degree audit.

Communication and Literacy:

Natural, Quantitative, and Social Sciences:

Culture, Society, and the Arts:

Students may count transfer credit and/or credit by exam toward some General Education Program requirements. See General Education Policies for details regarding use of transfer credit, credit by exam, and other policies for how General Education requirements may be fulfilled.

Communication and Literacy

Rhetoric

Rhetoric courses develop speaking, writing, listening, and critical reading skills and build competence in research, analysis, and argumentation.

All entering first-year students are required to complete RHET:1030 Rhetoric (4-5 s.h.). Because rhetorical skills lay the foundation for further study at the University, most students register for RHET:1030 during their first year at Iowa. Students in some majors, such as English or journalism and mass communication, enroll in RHET:1030 during their first semester.

Students who must enroll in English as a Second Language (ESL) courses as determined by their English proficiency evaluation must complete all ESL courses before they may register for RHET:1030 Rhetoric.

Students who have transfer credit in composition, speech, and argumentation but have not been granted an A.A. degree must complete the equivalent of RHET:1030 Rhetoric and often must take RHET:1040 Writing and Reading or RHET:1060 Speaking and Reading in addition to their transfer courses in composition and/or speech.

Each entering student's degree audit shows the course(s) that must be completed in order to fulfill the Rhetoric requirement.

The following courses are approved for the Rhetoric area.

RHET:1030Rhetoric4-5
RHET:1040Writing and Reading3
RHET:1060Speaking and Reading3

Transfer of Credit for Rhetoric

Transfer students who have been granted an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree from an Iowa community college, Waldorf College in Iowa, or Black Hawk College in Illinois have satisfied the Rhetoric requirement.

Transfer credit for students without an A.A. degree is evaluated as follows:

  • transfer students who have completed composition I, composition II, and speech at another institution have satisfied the General Education Program's Rhetoric requirement of RHET:1030 Rhetoric;
  • transfer students who have completed only composition I must complete RHET:1030 Rhetoric at the University of Iowa;
  • transfer students who have completed composition I and speech must complete RHET:1040 Writing and Reading at the University of Iowa;
  • transfer students who have completed only speech must complete RHET:1040 Writing and Reading at the University of Iowa;
  • transfer students who have completed composition I and II or only composition II must complete RHET:1060 Speaking and Reading at the University of Iowa;
  • for transfer students who have completed any other course at another institution that may be equivalent to RHET:1030 Rhetoric, the University of Iowa Office of Admissions examines the content of the course and decides on equivalency based on the content of that course, conferring with the Department of Rhetoric on the correct equivalency, if necessary.

Interpretation of Literature

Courses in the Interpretation of Literature area focus on the major genres of literature (short and long fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama), improving students' abilities to read and analyze a variety of texts. Small group discussions in these courses challenge students to think critically, to share insights, and to listen thoughtfully to the arguments of others.

All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of course work in the Interpretation of Literature area. The following courses are approved for the area.

CL:1510/ASIA:1510Ghost Stories and Tales of the Weird in Pre-Modern Chinese Literature3
ENGL:1200The Interpretation of Literature3
FREN:1005Texts and Contexts: French-Speaking World3
FREN:1007Nature/Ecology French Philosophy and Fiction3
HONR:1885Reading the Ancient City3

World Languages

Courses in the World Languages area provide students with speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in a second language as well as knowledge of the culture in which the language is spoken. To fulfill the World Languages requirement, students must:

complete the fourth year in a world language in high school; or

complete four semesters1 in an approved General Education world language course sequence at the University of Iowa (note the exception for Latin) or the equivalent courses at another college or university or during study abroad; or

pass a written and oral achievement test measuring proficiency in a world language taught at the University of Iowa, equivalent to that usually attained after four semesters of college study; or

achieve a passing score on Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, or other approved college-level world languages examination program.

1

Students may be required to complete fewer than four semesters based on their language placement test results.

For information about proficiency examinations and guidelines for taking them, see the World Languages web page. The page also provides information about how students whose first language is not English may fulfill the World Languages requirement.

Once students have completed the World Languages requirement, they may earn up to 8 s.h. of additional credit in language study; see the Furthering Language Incentive Program (FLIP) web page.

Students may use the following language course sequences to fulfill the World Languages requirement. To avoid duplication or regression, consult the appropriate language department before registering for courses.

American Sign Language

Courses in American Sign Language (ASL) are offered by the American Sign Language Program. The following sequence fulfills the General Education Program's World Languages requirement.

ASL:1001American Sign Language I4
ASL:1002American Sign Language II4
ASL:2001American Sign Language III4
ASL:2002American Sign Language IV4

Students with previous knowledge of American Sign Language should consult the ASL program for placement.

Arabic

Courses in Arabic are offered by the Department of French and Italian. The following sequence fulfills the General Education Program's World Languages requirement.

ARAB:1001Elementary Modern Standard Arabic I5
ARAB:1002Elementary Modern Standard Arabic II5
ARAB:2001Intermediate Modern Standard Arabic I5
ARAB:2002Intermediate Modern Standard Arabic II5

Students with previous knowledge of Arabic should consult the department for appropriate placement.

Chinese

Courses in Chinese are offered by the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures. For students without previous knowledge of Chinese, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the General Education Program's World Languages requirement.

CHIN:1111First-Year Chinese: First Semester5
CHIN:1112First-Year Chinese: Second Semester5
CHIN:2101Second-Year Chinese: First Semester5
CHIN:2102Second-Year Chinese: Second Semester5

Students may use varied combinations of Chinese language courses approved for General Education to fulfill the World Languages requirement. Heritage learners and students who have studied Chinese abroad may be able to fulfill the requirement by substituting CHIN:2103 Accelerated Second-Year Chinese: First Semester and CHIN:2104 Accelerated Second-Year Chinese: Second Semester for CHIN:2101 and CHIN:2102. Consult the department for more information.

French

Courses in French are offered by the Department of French and Italian. For students without previous knowledge of French, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the General Education Program's World Languages requirement.

FREN:1001Elementary French I4-5
FREN:1002Elementary French II4-5
FREN:2001Intermediate French I5
FREN:2002Intermediate French II5

Students may use varied combinations of French language courses approved for General Education to fulfill the World Languages requirement. Those with previous knowledge of French may be able to fulfill the requirement by substituting FREN:1010 First-Year French Review for FREN:1001 and FREN:1002 in the sequence above. Some students may be evaluated as ready for FREN:2001 or FREN:2002. Consult the department for appropriate placement.

German

Courses in German are offered by the Department of German. For students without previous knowledge of German, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the General Education Program's World Languages requirement.

GRMN:1001Elementary German I4
GRMN:1002Elementary German II4
GRMN:2001Intermediate German I4
GRMN:2002Intermediate German II4

Students may use varied combinations of German language courses approved for General Education to fulfill the World Languages requirement. Those with previous knowledge of German may be able to fulfill the requirement by substituting GRMN:1010 First-Year German Review for GRMN:1001 and GRMN:1002 in the sequence above. Some students may be evaluated as ready for GRMN:2001 or GRMN:2002. Consult the department for appropriate placement.

The department also offers accelerated intensive courses, GRMN:1020 Intensive Elementary German and GRMN:2020 Intensive Intermediate German, which may be appropriate for students with strong language learning abilities or experience. The intensive courses may be combined with nonintensive courses to create other sequences that may be used to fulfill the General Education World Languages requirement. Consult the department to identify an appropriate course sequence.

Greek

Courses in Greek are offered by the Department of Classics. Students without previous knowledge of Greek should fulfill the General Education Program's World Languages requirement with the following sequence.

CLSG:1001Classical and New Testament Greek I3-5
CLSG:1002Classical and New Testament Greek II3-5
CLSG:2001Second-Year Greek I3
CLSG:2002Second-Year Greek II3

Students with previous knowledge of Greek should consult the department for appropriate placement.

Hindi-Urdu

Courses in Hindi-Urdu are offered by the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures. Students without previous knowledge of Hindi-Urdu should fulfill the General Education Program's World Languages requirement with the following sequence. Each of these courses is open to entering first-year students.

SOAS:2101First-Year Hindi-Urdu: First Semester5
SOAS:2102First-Year Hindi-Urdu: Second Semester5
SOAS:3101Second-Year Hindi-Urdu: First Semester4
SOAS:3102Second-Year Hindi-Urdu: Second Semester4

Students with previous knowledge of Hindi-Urdu should consult the department for appropriate placement.

Italian

Courses in Italian are offered by the Department of French and Italian. Students without previous knowledge of Italian should fulfill the General Education Program's World Languages requirement with the following sequence.

ITAL:1101Elementary Italian5
ITAL:1102Elementary Italian II5
ITAL:2203Intermediate Italian4
ITAL:2204Intermediate Italian II4

Students with strong language learning abilities or a background in another Romance language may be able to complete the requirement by substituting ITAL:3002 Intensive Elementary Italian for ITAL:1101 and ITAL:1102 in the sequence above. Consult the department for appropriate placement.

Japanese

Courses in Japanese are offered by the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures. For students without previous knowledge of Japanese, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the General Education Program's World Languages requirement.

JPNS:1001First-Year Japanese: First Semester5
JPNS:1002First-Year Japanese: Second Semester5
JPNS:2001Second-Year Japanese: First Semester5
JPNS:2002Second-Year Japanese: Second Semester5

Students may use varied combinations of Japanese language courses approved for General Education to fulfill the World Languages requirement. Those with previous knowledge of Japanese should consult the department for appropriate placement.

Korean

Courses in Korean are offered by the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures. For students without previous knowledge of Korean, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the General Education Program's World Languages requirement.

KORE:1101First-Year Korean: First Semester4
KORE:1102First-Year Korean: Second Semester4
KORE:2101Second-Year Korean: First Semester4
KORE:2102Second-Year Korean: Second Semester4

Students with previous knowledge of Korean should consult the department for appropriate placement.

Latin

Courses in Latin are offered by the Department of Classics. Students without previous knowledge of Latin should fulfill the General Education Program's World Languages requirement with the following sequence. Students must take both CLSL:2001 and CLSL:2002 in order to fulfill the GE World Languages requirement. These courses require a similar knowledge of Latin, but one focuses on poetry and the other on prose. Other world languages permit a student to complete the last courses in the sequence to meet the CLAS GE requirement since the final course is more difficult than the previous ones. This is not true with the Latin sequence, and thus, both courses must be successfully completed.

CLSL:1001Elementary Latin I3-5
CLSL:1002Elementary Latin II3-5
CLSL:2001World of Cicero3
CLSL:2002Golden Age of Roman Poetry3

Students with previous knowledge of Latin should consult the department for appropriate placement.

Portuguese

Courses in Portuguese are offered by the Department of Spanish and Portuguese. Two sequences in Portuguese are approved to fulfill the General Education Program's World Languages requirement. All  courses are open to entering first-year students.

PORT:2010Elementary Portuguese I3
PORT:2015Elementary Portuguese II3
PORT:2510Intermediate Portuguese I3
PORT:2515Intermediate Portuguese II3

Students may also substitute PORT:2000 Accelerated Elementary Portuguese for PORT:2010 and PORT:2015 or they may use PORT:2500 Accelerated Intermediate Portuguese as a substitute for PORT:2510 or PORT:2515 in the sequence above.

Students with previous knowledge of Portuguese should consult the department for appropriate placement.

Russian

Courses in Russian are offered by the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures. Students without previous knowledge of Russian should fulfill the General Education Program's World Languages requirement with the following sequence.

SLAV:1111First-Year Russian I5
SLAV:1112First-Year Russian II5
SLAV:2111Second-Year Russian I4
SLAV:2112Second-Year Russian II4

Students with previous knowledge of Russian should consult the department for appropriate placement.

Sanskrit

Courses in Sanskrit are offered by the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures. Students without previous knowledge of Sanskrit should fulfill the General Education Program's World Languages requirement with the following sequence. Each of these courses is open to entering first-year students.

SOAS:2901/CLSA:2901First-Year Sanskrit: First Semester4
SOAS:2902/CLSA:2902First-Year Sanskrit: Second Semester4
SOAS:3901/CLSA:3901Second-Year Sanskrit: First Semester3
SOAS:3902/CLSA:3902Second-Year Sanskrit: Second Semester3

Students with previous knowledge of Sanskrit should consult the department for appropriate placement.

Spanish

Courses in Spanish are offered by the Department of Spanish and Portuguese. For students without previous knowledge of Spanish, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the General Education Program's World Languages requirement.

SPAN:1001Elementary Spanish I5
SPAN:1002Elementary Spanish II5
SPAN:1501Intermediate Spanish I5
SPAN:1502Intermediate Spanish II5

Students may use varied combinations of Spanish language courses approved for General Education to fulfill the General Education World Languages requirement. Those with previous knowledge of Spanish may be able to fulfill the requirement by substituting SPAN:1003 Elementary Spanish Review for SPAN:1001 and SPAN:1002 in the sequence above.

The accelerated course SPAN:1503 Accelerated Intermediate Spanish, which combines SPAN:1501 and SPAN:1502, may be appropriate for some students.

Students may substitute SPAN:1504 Spanish for Healthcare Providers in place of SPAN:1502 as the last course to fulfill the General Education Program's World Languages requirement.

Students with previous knowledge of Spanish should take the language placement test in Spanish to help determine proper placement.

Swahili

Courses in Swahili are offered by the Department of French and Italian. The following sequence fulfills the General Education Program's World Languages requirement. Each of these courses is open to entering first-year students.

SWAH:3001Elementary Swahili I4
SWAH:3002Elementary Swahili II4
SWAH:3003Intermediate Swahili I4
SWAH:3004Intermediate Swahili II4

Students with previous knowledge of Swahili should consult the department for appropriate placement.

Other Course Sequences

A student who successfully completes a four-semester world language sequence that has not been approved for General Education may have the sequence substituted for a proficiency test to fulfill the General Education requirement.

Students who complete a world language sequence this way should notify the department that offers the sequence; the department will contact Graduation Analysis in the Office of the Registrar, which will update a student's degree audit to show fulfillment of the World Languages requirement.

Natural, Quantitative, and Social Sciences

Natural Sciences

Courses in the Natural Sciences area explore the scope and major concepts of a scientific discipline. Students learn the attitudes and practices of scientific investigators: logic, precision, experimentation, tentativeness, and objectivity. In courses with a laboratory component, students gain experience in the methods of scientific inquiry.

All students must complete at least 7 s.h. of course work in the Natural Sciences area, including at least one natural science lab component. The following courses are approved for the area; courses with a lab component are noted "(lab)."

ANTH:1301Human Origins3
ASTR:1060/BIOL:1060/EES:1060Big Ideas: Origins of the Universe, Earth, and Life3
ASTR:1070Stars, Galaxies, and the Universe (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.)3-4
ASTR:1079Introductory Astronomy Laboratory (lab)1
ASTR:1080Exploration of the Solar System (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.)3-4
ASTR:1771General Astronomy I (lab)4
ASTR:1772General Astronomy II (lab)4
BIOL:1061/ANTH:1061/ASTR:1061/EES:1061Big Ideas: Evolution of Life on Earth and the Search for Life in the Universe (lab)4
BIOL:1140Human Biology (lab)4
BIOL:1141Introductory Animal Biology (lab)4
BIOL:1251How the Brain Works (and Why it Doesn't)3
BIOL:1260Plants and Human Affairs2-3
BIOL:1261Introduction to Botany (lab)4
BIOL:1311/ANTH:1310Human Genetics in the Twenty-First Century3
BIOL:1370Understanding Evolution (formerly Ecology and Evolution)3
BIOL:1411Foundations of Biology (lab)4
BIOL:1412Diversity of Form and Function (lab)4
CHEM:1050Technology and Society3
CHEM:1060Technology and Society Laboratory (lab)1
CHEM:1070General Chemistry I3
CHEM:1080General Chemistry II3
CHEM:1100Chemistry in Industry and the Economy3
CHEM:1110Principles of Chemistry I (lab)4
CHEM:1120Principles of Chemistry II (lab)4
CHEM:1160Principles of Chemistry Lab (lab)2
CHEM:1180Chemical Science I3
CHEM:1190Chemical Science II3
CHEM:1200Chemical Science Laboratory (lab)2
EES:1030/CEE:1030Introduction to Earth Science (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.)3-4
EES:1040Evolution and the History of Life (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.)3-4
EES:1050Introduction to Geology (lab)4
EES:1070Age of Dinosaurs (lab)4
EES:1080/ENVS:1080Introduction to Environmental Science (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.; not for students who have taken EES:1085 or ENVS:1085)3-4
EES:1085/ENVS:1085Fundamentals of Environmental Science (lab; not for students who have taken EES:1080 or ENVS:1080)4
EES:1090/ENVS:1090Introduction to Environmental Sciences Laboratory (lab)1
EES:1290Energy and the Environment3
EES:1400Natural Disasters3
GEOG:1020The Global Environment3
GEOG:1021The Global Environment Lab (lab)1
HHP:1100Human Anatomy3
HHP:1300Fundamentals of Human Physiology3
HHP:2310Nutrition and Health3
HONR:1640Honors Seminar in Natural Sciences3
PHYS:1100From Quarks to Quasars (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.)3-4
PHYS:1200Physics of Everyday Experience3
PHYS:1300Nanoscience3
PHYS:1400Basic Physics (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.)3-4
PHYS:1410Physics of Sound (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.)3-4
PHYS:1511College Physics I (lab)4
PHYS:1512College Physics II (lab)4
PHYS:1611Introductory Physics I (lab)4
PHYS:1612Introductory Physics II (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.)3-4
PHYS:1619Introductory Physics II Lab (lab)1
PHYS:1701Physics I (lab)4
PHYS:1702Physics II (lab)4

Quantitative or Formal Reasoning

Courses in the Quantitative or Formal Reasoning area help develop analytical skills through the practice of quantitative or formal symbolic reasoning. Courses focus on presentation and evaluation of evidence and argument; understanding the use and misuse of data; and organization of information in quantitative or other formal symbolic systems, including those used in computer science, linguistics, mathematics, philosophy, and statistics.

All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of course work in the Quantitative or Formal Reasoning area. Students may fulfill this requirement of the General Education Program by completing a course that lists an approved course as a prerequisite. The following courses are approved for the area.

COMM:1117Theory and Practice of Argument4
CS:1020Principles of Computing3
CS:1110Introduction to Computer Science3
CS:1210Computer Science I: Fundamentals4
HHP:1030Introduction to Critical Thinking3
LING:1050Language and Formal Reasoning3
MATH:1020Elementary Functions4
MATH:1120Logic of Arithmetic4
MATH:1130Theory of Arithmetic3
MATH:1340Mathematics for Business4
MATH:1380Calculus and Matrix Algebra for Business4
MATH:1440Mathematics for the Biological Sciences4
MATH:1460Calculus for the Biological Sciences4
MATH:1550Engineering Mathematics I: Single Variable Calculus4
MATH:1850Calculus I4
PHIL:1636Principles of Reasoning: Argument and Debate3
POLI:1050/RELS:1050Big Ideas: Introduction to Information, Society, and Culture3
POLI:1700Introduction to Political Analysis3
STAT:1010Statistics and Society3
STAT:1020/PSQF:1020Elementary Statistics and Inference3
STAT:1030Statistics for Business4
STAT:2010Statistical Methods and Computing3

Social Sciences

Courses in the Social Sciences area focus on human behavior and the institutions and social systems that shape and are shaped by that behavior. Courses provide an overview of one or more social science disciplines, their theories, and their methods.

All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of course work in the Social Sciences area. The following courses are approved for the area.

AFAM:1030Introduction to African American Society3
ANTH:1101/IS:1101Cultural Anthropology3
ANTH:1401Language, Culture, and Communication3
ANTH:2100Anthropology and Contemporary World Problems3
ANTH:2136Urban Anthropology3
ANTH:2261Human Impacts on the Environment3
ASP:1800/CSD:1800/NURS:1800/SSW:1800/TR:1800Aging Matters: Introduction to Gerontology3
COMM:1170Communication Theory in Everyday Life3
COMM:1174Media and Society3
CPH:1400Fundamentals of Public Health3
CRIM:1410Introduction to Criminology3
CSD:3117/LING:3117Psychology of Language3
CSD:3118/LING:3118Language Acquisition1-3
ECON:1100Principles of Microeconomics4
ECON:1200Principles of Macroeconomics4
GEOG:1010Introduction to Human Geography3
GEOG:1070Contemporary Environmental Issues3
GEOG:1090Globalization and Geographic Diversity3
GEOG:2110/GHS:2110Seven Billion and Counting: Introduction to Population Dynamics3
GEOG:2910The Global Economy3
HIST:1219/SOC:1219Big Ideas: Equality, Opportunity, and Public Policy in America3
HONR:1660Honors Seminar in Social Sciences3
JMC:1100Media Uses and Effects3
LING:1010Language and Society3
LING:1060Languages of the World3
MUSM:3001/ANTH:3001/EDTL:3001/SIED:3001Introduction to Museum Studies3
POLI:1100Introduction to American Politics3
POLI:1200Introduction to Political Behavior3
POLI:1300Introduction to Political Thought and Action3
POLI:1400Introduction to Comparative Politics3
POLI:1401Introduction to the Politics of Russia and Eurasia3
POLI:1403Introduction to Politics in the Muslim World3
POLI:1445Introduction to Asian Politics: China3
POLI:1449Introduction to European Politics3
POLI:1500Introduction to International Relations3
POLI:1501Introduction to American Foreign Policy3
POLI:1600Introduction to Political Communication3
POLI:2415/LAS:2415Latin American Politics3
PSY:1001Elementary Psychology3
PSY:2301Introduction to Clinical Psychology3
PSY:2401Introduction to Developmental Science3
PSY:2601Introduction to Cognitive Psychology3
SOC:1010Introduction to Sociology3-4
SOC:1020Social Problems3-4
SOC:1220Principles of Social Psychology3-4
TR:1070Perspectives on Leisure and Play3

Culture, Society, and the Arts

Diversity and Inclusion

Courses in the Diversity and Inclusion area help to develop students’ recognition of their positions in an increasingly pluralistic world while fostering an understanding of social and cultural differences. Students reflect critically on their own social and cultural perspectives while increasing their ability to engage with people who have backgrounds or ideas different from their own. Students also explore the historical and structural bases of inequality and the benefits and challenges of diversity.

Transfer credit is not accepted for the Diversity and Inclusion requirement; students must complete this requirement with course work taken at the University of Iowa.

All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of course work in the Diversity and Inclusion area. The following courses are approved for the area.

AFAM:2500Black Culture and Experience: Contemporary Issues3
ANTH:2165/AINS:2165/AMST:2165Native Peoples of North America3
CCCC:2220Foundations of Critical Cultural Competence3
DANC:2065Performing Crisis: Dances of Identity, Witness, and Resistance3
DST:1101Introduction to Disability Studies3
HIST:1040Diversity in History3
JMC:2600Freedom of Expression3
LATS:2280/HIST:2280/SPAN:2280Introduction to Latina/o Studies3
POLI:1601Introduction to Social Media and Politics3
POLI:1800Introduction to the Politics of Class and Inequality3
POLI:1900Introduction to the Politics of Race3

Historical Perspectives

Courses in the Historical Perspectives area help students comprehend the historical processes of change and continuity; develop the ability to generalize, explain, and interpret historical change; and understand the past in its own terms.

All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of course work in the Historical Perspectives area. The following courses are approved for the area.

ANTH:1201World Archaeology3
ARTH:1010Art and Visual Culture3
ARTH:1050From Cave Paintings to Cathedrals: Survey of Western Art I3
ARTH:1060From Mona Lisa to Modernism: Survey of Western Art II3
ARTH:1070/CHIN:1070Asian Art and Culture3
ARTH:1090Earthly Paradises: A Global History of Gardens3
ARTH:2920Introduction to American Art3
CLSA:1181/GHS:1181Ancient Medicine3
CLSA:1830Greek Civilization3
CLSA:1840Roman Civilization3
EES:1115/ENVS:1115/GEOG:1115/HIST:1115Big Ideas: The History and Science of Oil3
FREN:3110French Civilization3
FREN:3120French Civilization3
HIST:1002Issues in Medieval Society3
HIST:1004Issues in Human History: Communities and Society in History3
HIST:1006Issues: Nature and Society in Historical Perspective3
HIST:1008Issues in European Politics and Society3
HIST:1010History Matters3
HIST:1012Issues in Human History: Europe's Expansion Overseas3
HIST:1014Issues: Twentieth-Century Crisis3
HIST:1016The History That Made Our World3
HIST:1261American History to 18773
HIST:1262American History 1877-Present3
HIST:1401Western Civilization I3-4
HIST:1402Western Civilization II3-4
HIST:1403Western Civilization III3-4
HIST:1602/ASIA:1602Civilizations of Asia: China3
HIST:1604/ASIA:1604Civilizations of Asia: Japan3-4
HIST:1606/ASIA:1606Civilizations of Asia: South Asia3-4
HIST:1607Civilizations of Asia: Korea3-4
HIST:2461/CLSA:2461/RELS:2361Middle East and Mediterranean: Alexander to Suleiman3
HIST:3410/MDVL:3410Medieval Civilization II3
HONR:1610Honors Seminar in Historical Perspectives3
ITAL:2550Images of Modern Italy3
JMC:1200Media History and Culture3
MUS:1303Roots, Rock, and Rap: A History of Popular Music3
MUS:2301History of Music I3
MUS:2302History of Music II3
PHIL:1033The Meaning of Life3
PHIL:1034Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness3
RELS:1001Judaism, Christianity, and Islam3
RELS:1225/HIST:1025Medieval Religion and Culture3
RELS:1250/HIST:1050Modern Religion and Culture3
SLAV:1531Slavic Folklore3
SLAV:1532Religion and Culture of Slavs3
THTR:1400Theatre and Society: Ancients and Moderns3
THTR:1401Theatre and Society: Romantics and Rebels3
THTR:2410History of Theatre and Drama I3
THTR:2411History of Theatre and Drama II3

International and Global Issues

Courses in the International and Global Issues area focus predominantly on countries or issues outside the United States, encouraging students to understand contemporary issues from an international perspective. Students develop knowledge of one or more contemporary global or international issues, gain a greater awareness of varied international perspectives, and improve their skills of analysis and critical inquiry.

All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of course work in the International and Global Issues area. The following courses are approved for the area.

ANTH:1046/GEOG:1046/GWSS:1046Big Ideas: People and the Environment - Technology, Culture, and Social Justice3
ANTH:2100Anthropology and Contemporary World Problems3
ANTH:2136Urban Anthropology3
ANTH:2261Human Impacts on the Environment3
ARTH:1040Arts of Africa3
FREN:1006Global Sports and National Cultures3
FREN:1510Cultural Misunderstandings: France and U.S.A.3
GEOG:1060Geography of Asia: From Japan to Pakistan3
GEOG:1070Contemporary Environmental Issues3
GEOG:1090Globalization and Geographic Diversity3
GEOG:2910The Global Economy3
GRMN:2720/HIST:2420Germany in the World3
GRMN:4315Contemporary German Civilization3
HIST:1016The History That Made Our World3
HIST:1403Western Civilization III3-4
HIST:1602/ASIA:1602Civilizations of Asia: China3
HIST:1604/ASIA:1604Civilizations of Asia: Japan3-4
HIST:1606/ASIA:1606Civilizations of Asia: South Asia3-4
HIST:1607Civilizations of Asia: Korea3-4
HONR:1620Honors Seminar in International and Global Issues3
IS:2000Introduction to International Studies3
LING:1040/ANTH:1040Language Rights3
POLI:1400Introduction to Comparative Politics3
POLI:1401Introduction to the Politics of Russia and Eurasia3
POLI:1403Introduction to Politics in the Muslim World3
POLI:1445Introduction to Asian Politics: China3
POLI:1449Introduction to European Politics3
POLI:1500Introduction to International Relations3
POLI:1501Introduction to American Foreign Policy3
POLI:2415/LAS:2415Latin American Politics3
RELS:1130/HIST:1030Introduction to Islamic Civilization3
RELS:2852/GWSS:2052Women in Islam and the Middle East3
RELS:3855/IS:3855Human Rights and Islam3
SLAV:1132Russia Today3

Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts

Courses in the Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts area provide students with opportunities to appreciate the arts and to analyze them within their historical and theoretical contexts. They also help students develop the analytic, expressive, and imaginative abilities necessary for understanding, appreciating, and creating art.

All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of course work in the Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts area. The following courses are approved for the area.

ARTH:1010Art and Visual Culture3
ARTH:1020Masterpieces: Art in Historical and Cultural Perspectives3
ARTH:1040Arts of Africa3
ARTH:1050From Cave Paintings to Cathedrals: Survey of Western Art I3
ARTH:1060From Mona Lisa to Modernism: Survey of Western Art II3
ARTH:1070/CHIN:1070Asian Art and Culture3
ARTH:1095American Indian Art3
ARTH:2920Introduction to American Art3
ARTS:1010Elements of Art3
ARTS:1030Elements of Jewelry and Metal Arts3
ARTS:1050Elements of Printmaking3
ARTS:1080Elements of Sculpture3
CERM:2010Exploring Forms in Clay I3
CHIN:1702Chinese Popular Culture (effective spring 2017)3
CINE:1602Introduction to Film Studies3
CINE:1610Contemporary Cinema3
CL:1240/CLSA:1040Major Texts of World Literature, Antiquity to 17003
CL:1241Major Texts of World Literature, 1700 to the Present3
CLSA:1010Hero, God, Mortal: Literature of Greece3
CLSA:1020Love and Glory: The Literature of Rome3
CLSA:1740/WRIT:1740Writing Strategies: Word Origins and Word Choice3
CLSA:2016Classical Mythology3
CNW:1620Introduction to Creative Nonfiction3
CW:1800Creative Writing Studio Workshop3
DANC:1010Beginning Tap2
DANC:1020Beginning Jazz2
DANC:1030Beginning Ballet2
DANC:1040Beginning Modern Dance2
DANC:1110Continuing Tap1-2
DANC:1120Continuing Jazz2
DANC:1130Continuing Ballet2
DANC:1140Continuing Modern Dance2
DANC:2020Intermediate Jazz2
DANC:2030Intermediate Ballet2
DANC:2040Intermediate Modern2
DANC:2060/DPA:2060Dance and Society in Global Contexts3
ENGL:1320Heroes and Villains3
ENGL:1325Comic and Tragic Literature3
ENGL:1330The Art of Storytelling3
ENGL:1345American Lives3
ENGL:1350Literature and Sexualities3
ENGL:1355/AINS:1355Literatures of Native American Peoples3
FREN:4100French Cinema3-4
GRMN:2630German Cinema: Greatest Hits3-4
GRMN:2666/CL:2666Pact with the Devil3
GRMN:2775Scandinavian Crime Fiction3
GRMN:2780King Arthur Through the Ages3
GRMN:2785The Fantastic and Supernatural in German Fiction and Film3
HONR:1630Honors Seminar in Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts3
MUS:1001Group Piano I: Non-Music Majors1
MUS:1009Jazz Cultures in America and Abroad3
MUS:1012Creativity in Music3
MUS:1020Performance Instruction for Nonmajors1
MUS:1066Introduction to Film Music3
MUS:1301Concepts and Contexts of Western Music3
MUS:1302Great Musicians3
MUS:1310World Music3
MUS:1720History of Jazz3
MUS:1800/DPA:1800World of the Beatles3
MUS:2005Issues in Popular Music: Women Who Rock3
MUS:2301History of Music I3
MUS:2302History of Music II3
MUS:2311/LAS:2311Music of Latin America and the Caribbean3
PORT:1800Contemporary Brazilian Narrative3
SCLP:2810Undergraduate Sculpture I3
SPAN:1700/LATS:1700Latino/a Literature in the U.S.3
SPAN:1800Contemporary Spanish American Narrative3
THTR:1010Art of the Theatre3
THTR:1140Basic Acting3
THTR:1400Theatre and Society: Ancients and Moderns3
THTR:1401Theatre and Society: Romantics and Rebels3
THTR:1412/DANC:1412/DPA:1412The Arts in Performance3
THTR:2301Playwriting I3
THTR:2410History of Theatre and Drama I3
THTR:2411History of Theatre and Drama II3

Values and Culture

Courses in the Values and Culture area focus on how culture shapes the human experience and the role of values in society, with students asking fundamental questions regarding the human experience while exploring their own values and beliefs.

All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of course work in the Values and Culture area. The following courses are approved for the area.

AFAM:1020/AMST:1030Introduction to African American Culture3
AFAM:1030Introduction to African American Society3
AINS:1049/AMST:1049Introduction to American Indian and Native Studies3
AMST:1010Understanding American Cultures3
AMST:1154Food in America3
ANTH:1101/IS:1101Cultural Anthropology3
ANTH:2175/JPNS:2175Japanese Society and Culture3
ARTH:1030Themes in Global Art3
ARTH:1045Race and Art in America3
ARTH:1095American Indian Art3
ARTS:2000/ASP:2000/EDTL:2000/RHET:2000Big Ideas: Creativity for a Lifetime3
ASIA:2450India Beat: The Aesthetics and Politics of India Today3
CHIN:1504Asian Humanities: China3
CLSA:1340Magic in the Ancient World3
CLSA:1875Ancient Sports and Leisure3
CLSA:1883/HONR:1883War3
CLSA:2016Classical Mythology3
CLSA:2482/RELS:2182Ancient Mediterranean Religions3
CLSA:2651/GWSS:2651Gender and Sexuality in the Ancient World3
COMM:1174Media and Society3
DANC:1150/LAS:1150Brazilian Culture and Carnival3
ENGL:1355/AINS:1355Literatures of Native American Peoples3
ENGL:1420Technologies and Literatures of the Future3
EPLS:4180Human Relations for the Classroom Teacher3
GRMN:2550/WLLC:2550Mardi Gras and More: Cultures of Carnival3-4
GRMN:2618/CL:2618The Third Reich and Literature3
GRMN:2650German Nationalism After WWII3-4
GRMN:2655/IS:2600Muslim Minorities in the West3-4
GWSS:1001Introduction to Gender, Women's, and Sexuality Studies3
GWSS:1002Diversity and Power in the U.S.3
GWSS:1060/AMST:1060/ENGL:1410Sex and Popular Culture in the Postwar U.S.3
HHP:2200Physical Activity and Health3
HIST:1609India Now! A Survey from Bollywood Films to Global Terror3-4
HIST:1708Civilizations of Africa3
HIST:2265/AFAM:2265Introduction to African American History3
ITAL:2550Images of Modern Italy3
JMC:1500Social Media Today3
JPNS:1506Asian Humanities: Japan3
LING:2900Language, Gender, and Sexuality3
MUS:1009Jazz Cultures in America and Abroad3
MUS:1720History of Jazz3
MUS:2311/LAS:2311Music of Latin America and the Caribbean3
PHIL:1401Matters of Life and Death3
PHIL:1861Introduction to Philosophy3
PHIL:2402Introduction to Ethics3
POLI:1300Introduction to Political Thought and Action3
RELS:1070Introduction to the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament3
RELS:1080Introduction to the New Testament3
RELS:1130/HIST:1030Introduction to Islamic Civilization3
RELS:1350/AFAM:1250Introduction to African American Religions3
RELS:1404/ASIA:1040Living Religions of the East3
RELS:1506/ASIA:1060Introduction to Buddhism3
RELS:1702Religion in America Today3
RELS:1810Longing for Freedom3
RELS:1903Quest for Human Destiny3
RELS:2700/AINS:2700Sacred World of Native Americans3
RELS:2852/GWSS:2052Women in Islam and the Middle East3
RELS:2986Religion and Women3
SLAV:1082Youth Subcultures After Socialism3
SLAV:1131Introduction to Russian Culture3
SLAV:1132Russia Today3
SLAV:1531Slavic Folklore3
SLAV:1532Religion and Culture of Slavs3
SOAS:1502/RELS:1502Asian Humanities: India3
SOC:1310/GWSS:1310Gender and Society3-4
SOC:2710The American Family3
SOC:2810Social Inequality3
SPAN:1700/LATS:1700Latino/a Literature in the U.S.3
SPAN:1900Diversity and Cultures in Spain3
SPST:1074/AMST:1074/GWSS:1074Inequality in American Sport3
SRM:1045Health for Living3
SRM:1072Leisure and the Liberal Arts3
SSW:1022/SOC:1022Social Justice and Social Welfare in the United States3
THTR:1411Comedy and Society3
THTR:1412/DANC:1412/DPA:1412The Arts in Performance3
THTR:2405Staging Americans: U.S. Cultures Through Theatre and Performance3

Four-Year Graduation Plan

The following checkpoints list the minimum requirements students must complete by certain semesters in order to stay on the University's Four-Year Graduation Plan. Courses in the major are those required to complete the major; they may be offered by departments other than the major department.

Before the third semester begins: two introductory courses in the major

Before the fifth semester begins: six courses in the major

Before the seventh semester begins: 12 courses in the major and at least 90 s.h. earned toward the degree

Before the eighth semester begins: 15 courses in the major

During the eighth semester: enrollment in all remaining course work in the major, all remaining General Education courses, and a sufficient number of semester hours to graduate

Sample Plans of Study

Geography (B.S.)

Environmental Studies Track

Plan of Study Grid
First Year
FallHours
GEOG:1090 Globalization and Geographic Diversity (major, also GE: International and Global Issues) 3
RHET:1030 Rhetoric (GE: Rhetoric or other General Education course) 1 4
GE: Values and Culture 3
Elective course 2 3
CSI:1600 Success at Iowa 2
 Hours15
Spring
GEOG:1020 The Global Environment (major) 3
GEOG:1021 The Global Environment Lab (major, also GE: Natural Sciences with a lab)) 1
ENGL:1200 The Interpretation of Literature (GE: Interpretation of Literature ) 3
GE: Diversity and Inclusion 3
GE: Historical Perspectives 3
Elective course 2
 Hours15
Second Year
Fall
GEOG:1070 Contemporary Environmental Issues (major, also GE: Social Sciences) 3
MATH:1460 Calculus for the Biological Sciences (GE: Quantitative or Formal Reasoning) 4
GE: World Languages or elective course 3 3-5
Elective course 3
Elective course 2
 Hours15-17
Spring
GEOG:1050 Foundations of GIS (major) 3
Major: geography course 3
GE: Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts 3
GE: World Languages or elective course 3-5
Elective course 3
 Hours15-17
Third Year
Fall
STAT:4143 Introduction to Statistical Methods (major) 3
Major: upper-level geography course 3
GE: Natural Sciences without a lab 3
GE: World Languages or elective course 3-5
Elective course 3
 Hours15-17
Spring
STAT:6513 Intermediate Statistical Methods (major) 4
Major: upper-level environmental studies track course 3
GE: World Languages or elective course 3-5
Elective course 3
Elective course 2
 Hours15-17
Fourth Year
Fall
Major: upper-level environmental studies track course 3
Major: upper-level environmental studies track course 3
Elective course 3
Elective course 3
Elective course 3
 Hours15
Spring
GEOG:4990 Senior Thesis (major) 3
Major: upper-level environmental studies track course 3
Elective course 3
Elective course 3
Elective course 3
 Hours15
 Total Hours120-128
1

General Education (GE) courses may be completed in any order unless used as a prerequisite for another course. Students should consult with an advisor about the best sequencing of courses. For more information, view the General Education Program.

2

Students may use their elective courses to complete a double major, minors, or certificates.

3

Students who have completed four years of a single language in high school have satisfied the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences GE: World Languages requirement. Enrollment in world languages courses requires a placement exam, unless enrolling in a first-semester-level course.

Geographic Information Sciences Track

Plan of Study Grid
First Year
FallHours
GEOG:1090 Globalization and Geographic Diversity (major, also GE: International and Global Issues) 3
RHET:1030 Rhetoric (GE: Rhetoric or other General Education course) 1 4
GE: Diversity and Inclusion 3
GE: World Languages or elective course 2 3-5
CSI:1600 Success at Iowa 2
 Hours15-17
Spring
GEOG:1020 The Global Environment (major) 3
GEOG:1021 The Global Environment Lab (major, also GE: Natural Sciences with a lab) 1
ENGL:1200 The Interpretation of Literature (GE: Interpretation of Literature ) 3
GE: World Languages or elective course 3-5
Elective course 3
Elective course 2
 Hours15-17
Second Year
Fall
GEOG:1050 Foundations of GIS (major) 3
MATH:1460 Calculus for the Biological Sciences (major, also GE: Quantitative or Formal Reasoning) 4
GE: World Languages or elective course 3-5
Elective course 3
Elective course 2
 Hours15-17
Spring
GEOG:1070 Contemporary Environmental Issues (major, also GE: Social Sciences) 3
CS:1110 Introduction to Computer Science (major) 3
GE: Historical Perspectives 3
GE: World Languages or elective course 3-5
Elective course 3
 Hours15-17
Third Year
Fall
STAT:4143 Introduction to Statistical Methods (major) 3
Major: upper-level GIS track course 3
GE: Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts 3
Elective course 3
Elective course 3
 Hours15
Spring
GEOG:3992 Undergraduate Research (major) 1
STAT:6513 Intermediate Statistical Methods (major) 4
Major: upper-level GIS track course 3
GE: Natural Sciences without a lab 3
Elective course 3
Elective course 1
 Hours15
Fourth Year
Fall
Major: upper-level GIS track course 3
Major: upper-level GIS track course 3
GE: Values and Culture 3
Elective course 3
Elective course 3
 Hours15
Spring
GEOG:4030 Senior Project Seminar (major) 3
Major: upper-level GIS track course 3
Elective course 3
Elective course 3
Elective course 3
 Hours15
 Total Hours120-128
1

General Education (GE) courses may be completed in any order unless used as a prerequisite for another course. Students should consult with an advisor about the best sequencing of courses. For more information, view the General Education Program.

2

Students who have completed four years of a single language in high school have satisfied the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences GE: World Languages requirement. Enrollment in world languages courses requires a placement exam, unless enrolling in a first-semester-level course.

3

Students may use their elective courses to complete a double major, minors, or certificates.

Geography majors are encouraged to participate in an internship. The department maintains close ties with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and other local agencies that offer internships.

Courses in geography are commonly required of students preparing to teach at the elementary and secondary school levels or to work in urban and regional planning. The degree also provides a solid background for many related professions, including law, health care, environmental engineering, and business.

The application of geographic information systems (GIS) to social, economic, and environmental problems has increased considerably during the past decade. This trend is likely to continue into the future; in fact, the U.S. Department of Labor has identified the area as one of its 14 high-growth industries. GIS presents an abundance of career opportunities for geography graduates in local, state, and federal government agencies, as well as in the private sector.

The department’s faculty members help students apply for postgraduate programs and contact potential employers.

The Pomerantz Career Center offers multiple resources to help students find internships and jobs.