Geography is the field of science describing, analyzing, and understanding the distribution and spatial interaction of Earth’s physical and cultural landscapes. Using tools such as mapping, it focuses on the complex interrelationships between Earth and human systems, sustainability of global and local resources, and social and demographic phenomena. This program is designed to meet the requirements for an Associate of Arts in Geography from CNM and prepare a student to obtain a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in Geography at the University of New Mexico. However, students from CNM seeking a baccalaureate degree may also transfer to other institutions. Students interested in transfer to UNM should consult the UNM Geography Department. Students should always refer to the catalog of their intended transfer institution for admission, program, course, and graduation requirements. College catalogs are generally available online. Students should also consult an advisor at CNM.
Some courses are not eligible for Financial Aid. Please check the list here when considering a course.
Educational Opportunities
Many of the courses in this program are transferable and some may be applied to four-year degree programs at other institutions. CNM currently has transfer agreements with many colleges and universities in New Mexico and elsewhere.
* NM universities offer different Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in geography. Please review those programs before choosing your CNM math and science classes. Students are encouraged to consult with an advisor at the 4-year institution to which they wish to transfer to best determine which courses to take.
** Autocad and GIS are sought after skills in NM geoscience job market. Consider taking the BCIS 1110 and GIS 1118 courses as an unrestricted elective in terms 1 and 2; BCIS 1110 is a pre-requisite for GIS 1118. GIS 1005 is also recommended for an unrestricted elective; however, there is a 1-credit prerequisite of CAD 1001. GIS 1002 does not have any pre-requisite courses.
*** GEOG 1130 Human Geography meets the General Education requirement for a Social/Behavioral Science.
**** GEOG 1120 and GEOG 1140 are required for The University of New Mexico’s BA and BS degrees in Geography.
***** ECON 2110 recommended. A background in macroeconomics is essential not only for study in economic geography but also provides foundational knowledge in very marketable applications of the geography major, including town planning, location analysis, market research, and sustainability and conservation work.
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