Honours BA Geography

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Honours BA Geography at the University of Ottawa equips you to address critical global issues such as climate change, resource management, and urban development. This program is ideal for students passionate about understanding the complex interactions between human societies and their environments, and who seek to develop practical skills for real-world impact. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of geographical concepts, from physical processes like geomorphology and climatology to human activities shaping places and spaces, preparing you for a dynamic career field.

This full-time, on-campus undergraduate degree is studied over four years, integrating foundational skills, compulsory courses, and specialised electives. You will engage with essential tools such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing, and develop practical experience through compelling field research opportunities in diverse environments, including urban settings and natural landscapes. You will graduate with a strong portfolio of analytical, technical, and research skills, ready for diverse career paths in environmental consulting, urban planning, policy analysis, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Honours BA Geography program provides a comprehensive study of geographical concepts and methodologies. Students will engage with foundational skills in writing and critical thinking, alongside compulsory courses covering physical and human environments, statistical analysis, and research methods. The curriculum further allows for specialization through optional courses in areas such as geomorphology, urban studies, and globalization, culminating in practical field research experiences.

1 Basic Skills Courses (12 Units)

Workshop in essay writing
Reasoning and critical thinking
Philosophy: Ideas and arguments
Introduction to interdisciplinary study in the arts 1
Introduction to interdisciplinary study in the arts 1
Selected topics in literature and composition
Moral reasoning
Fundamental philosophical questions
Great philosophers
Philosophy: Themes and texts

2 Compulsory Courses (36 Units)

The physical environment
Places and spaces of human activity
Descriptive statistics
Contested places
Sustainable cities
Geomorphology
Climatology
GIS and the digital earth
Introduction to field research
Methodological and theoretical approaches in geography and environmental studies

3 Optional Courses (15 Units)

Advanced geomorphology
Hydrology
Earth observation
Cities and social change
Biogeography
Geographies of globalization
Quaternary paleogeography
Social landscapes of Métis communities
Digital earth analysis modeling
Geography of urban transportation
Quaternary paleoenvironments
Livable cities, healthy communities

4 Field Research Options (6 Units)

Environmental studies field research
Tropical field research
Northern field research
Glaciology field research
Field research in a North American city
Urban geography field research
Physical geography field research

5 Elective Courses (48 Units)

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,606.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,606.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,606.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,606.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 126,425.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 937.00 - USD 1,171.00
Food & Groceries USD 5,981.00 - USD 6,068.00
Transport USD 867.00 - USD 1,041.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,734.00 - USD 2,167.00
Estimated Total USD 8,582.00 - USD 9,276.00

Living cost estimates are based on Ottawa Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationCybersecurityEnergy Storage & TechnologyFintech & Mobile MoneyIntelligence & InvestigationsMedical Research & Clinical TrialsNursing & Allied HealthPolice & Public SafetySoftware Development & EngineeringUrban Mobility & Smart Transport

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Ciena

Department of National Defense

Environment and Climate Change Canada

Global Affairs Canada

Government of Canada

Health Canada

IBM

Microsoft

Why Study Honours BA Geography at University of Ottawa

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University of Ottawa in Canada

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Honours BA Geography at University of Ottawa

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during term time and unlimited hours during breaks. On-campus work has no hour restrictions.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English requirements, take tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific scores are needed in each section, so check the details carefully.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as urban planners, environmental consultants, GIS specialists, geographers, or community developers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program explores critical issues such as climate change and community organization. You'll gain technical skills in GIS and enjoy field experiences in diverse environments.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Honours BA Geography program has an intake in September. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your place.
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