Department of Geography and the EnvironmentAbout

When you take classes in the Department of Geography and Environment at Langara you will learn about the Earth, and how humans interact with the environment. We offer lab sciences, as well as classes in geographic information systems (GIS), human, urban and environmental geography and much more! Which classes you choose to take are completely up to you, so start your journey with whatever sounds interesting!

When you’re done, you’ll more deeply understand the Earth, the environment, and be better equipped to participate in a sustainable future. You may eventually decide to pursue a degree in earth sciences, geography, urban studies or geology, or in one of the many other related areas of study. Whatever path you choose to follow, you will have a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world in which we live.

What is geography?

Geography is the captivating study of everything that shapes our world: mountains, oceans, rivers, and the atmosphere, as well as plants, animals, people, and places. Geographers also explore powerful natural phenomena like hurricanes, tornadoes, volcanoes, earthquakes, and tsunamis.

Humans are embedded in the world that surrounds us, and thus geography also encompasses vital topics such as sustainability, energy and resources, as well as food, housing, health, economics, conflict, and reconciliation. Geographers delve into technology, leadership, and stewardship, and highlight the deep connections we share with the world around us.

By seeing the world through a geographic lens, you’ll discover how amazing, unique and fragile our planet is, and how we impact it. With no "Planet B" to turn to, the sooner we understand how to live harmoniously with our environment and take care of the world around us, the better.

What is geology?

Geology is the literal foundation, upon which everything is built. The solid Earth beneath us is not so solid: it moves continuously, and over millenia mountains form. Sometimes change can be sudden and rapid, and we experience an earthquake, or a new volcano is born. Whether they be fast or slow, when processes inside the Earth decide it’s time for action, everything is affected. Geology is also the history of the Earth, since it first came into being over 4.5 billion years ago. To understand our planet, we need know what’s happening on the outside of the Earth, deep inside it, and how long it’s been happening.

Study Geography & Geology

International students

Work in Canada after you graduate. Learn how occupations in geography and geology are included in the Government of Canada's Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP). CIP codes reflect programs that provide pathways to Post Graduate Work Permits, based on long-term occupational shortages.

Check codes

European Field Studies

In May 2026, travel and learn in Germany and Italy in the European Field Studies program!

A unique opportunity to take Langara Geography classes in Europe!

Events

Geography Speaker Series

“Spacing Out: Mind Expanding Talks in Geography”

Once a year, Langara’s Geography department brings distinguished academics and practitioners to share their knowledge and experience from the field. Speakers are selected from both sides of the discipline - human and physical geography. Lectures are free and open to students, faculty, staff, and the public.