Online GEO Courses

onGEO Course Offerings

The fully online courses below are offered by the onGEO group of the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences.

  • GEO 113v  Economic Geography

    GEO 113v  Introduction to Economic Geography

     

    Syllabus

    This course introduces students to the study of the spatial distribution of resources, population, enterprise, trade, consumption, and economic production. Emphasis placed on the interaction of those distributions at local-to-global scales.

    Offered: At least one section of Econogmic Geography is offered during the first or second summer sessions; it may also be offered during the fall or spring semester. See MSU's Class Search for course availability.

    Credits: Total Credits: 3   Lecture/Recitation/Discussion Hours: 3

    Course Description: Spatial distribution of resources, population, enterprise, trade, consumption, and production. Interaction of those distributions at local to global scales.

    Course Authors(s): Elizabeth Mack, Ph.D.

  • GEO 151v  Introduction to Human Geography

    GEO 151v  Introduction to Human Geography

     

    Syllabus

    This course introduces students to the spatial patterns and processes that shape how humans use and alter their environment, creating the diversity of places and people in the world today. In this context, a variety of topics are explored including population patterns and dynamics, religious and language diversity, economic development, agricultural systems, urban geography, and geopolitics. With each of these topics the focus is on the current patterns and processes of global change, geographical variability of these patterns and processes, and ways in which changes at the global scale are affecting, and in turn are affected by, local and regional events and conditions. Students should emerge from this course more aware of the patterns and processes that affect global change and able to evaluate and think critically about current events.

    Offered: At least one section of World Regional Geography is offered during the first or second summer sessions; it may also be offered during the fall or spring semester. See MSU's Class Search for course availability.

    Credits: Total Credits: 3    Lecture/Recitation/Discussion Hours: 3

    Course Description: Systematic study of spatial patterns and processes that have shaped human use and alteration of the world.

    Course Authors(s): Dick Groop, Ph.D.; Gary Schnakenberg, Ph.D.; Adrienne Goldsberry, M.A., AICP; Juliegh Bookout, M.A.; Kyle Evered, Ph.D.

  • GEO 203v  Introduction to Meteorology

    GEO 203v  Introduction to Meteorology

     

    Syllabus

    This course is an ideal course for students wishing to develop a fundamental understanding of Earth's atmospheric systems and gain a greater appreciation for the atmosphere. Its primary objective is to acquaint students with the science of meteorology, and those physical processes associated with weather and climate. Topics explored include weather maps and forecasting, Earth's energy balance, adiabatic processes, cyclogenesis, and severe weather. The introduction of many basic, physical processes make Introduction to Meteorology a useful foundation for other geography courses.

    Offered: At least one section of Introduction to Meteorology is offered during the first or second summer sessions. See MSU's Class Search for course availability.

    Credits: Total Credits: 3   Lecture/Recitation/Discussion Hours: 3

    Course Description: Fundamentals of meteorology. Energy balance, adiabatic processes, horizontal motion, cyclogenesis, and severe weather.

    Course Authors(s): Sharon Zhong, Ph.D.; Beth Weisenborn, M.S.

  • GEO 204v  World Regional Geography

    GEO 204v  World Regional Geography

     

    Syllabus

    The content of this course is increasingly relevant considering the highly-globalized society in which we live. The reality is that it is no longer realistic to declare that one need not care about the rest of the world. Rather, it is imperative to have a population that is globally conscientious. Even professionals need to be cognizant of places other than their own due to complex globalized webs and supply chains, and the cultural customs that play a role in business negotiations. World Regional Geography is an ideal course for students wishing to gain global geographical knowledge, expand their understanding of world realms and cultures, explore modern, global and regional issues, and challenge themselves to expand their intellectual horizons and perspective.

    Offered: At least one section of World Regional Geography is offered during the first or second summer sessions; it may also be offered during the fall or spring semester. See MSU's Class Search for course availability.

    Credits: Total Credits: 3   Lecture/Recitation/Discussion Hours: 3

    Course Description: Economic, political, cultural, environmental, and technological processes and conditions that explain the diversity of world regions.

    Course Authors(s): Gary Schnakenberg, Ph.D.; Juliegh Bookout, M.A.; Kyle Evered, Ph.D.

  • GEO 206v  Physical Geography

    GEO 206v  Physical Geography

     

    Syllabus

    This course is designed to provide students with an overview of the natural environment in which we live and the way it functions, at varying scales from local to global. Specifically, it aims to introduce students to important concepts, facts, and terminology of physical geography and impart an appreciation of the interrelationships between humans and their environment. Physical Geography is an ideal course for students wishing to develop a fundamental understanding of Earth systems and gain a greater appreciation for the physical landscapes around them. The introduction of many basic, physical processes, such as global circulation, plate tectonics, and fluvial systems, make Physical Geography a useful foundation for other geography courses.

    Offered: At least one section of Physical Geography is offered during the first or second summer sessions; it may also be offered during the fall or spring semester. See MSU's Class Search for course availability.

    Credits: Total Credits: 3   Lecture/Recitation/Discussion Hours: 3

    Course Description: Geographic and functional interrelationships within the physical environment: Earth-sun relationships, weather, climate, soils, vegetation and landforms (terrain characteristics).

    Course Authors(s): Alan F. Arbogast, Ph.D.; Juliegh Bookout, M.A.

  • GEO 215v  Sports Geography

    GEO 215v  Sports Geography

     

    Syllabus

    Sports are considered by many to be a universal language that can bring people together no matter their origin, background, religious beliefs, economic status, or age. In Sports Geography, we use sports as our medium to learn more about core geographic principles. Sports can be used as the medium to explain all sorts of different landscapes and how we can think critically about the spatial heterogeneity and similarities between places. Throughout the course you will get to see how different types of geographers might think about sports or be able to contribute to the explanations and analyses of the sports landscapes.

    Offered: At least one section of Sports Geography is offered during the first or second summer sessions; it may also be offered occasionally during the fall semester. See MSU's Class Search for course availability.

    Credits: Total Credits: 3   Lecture/Recitation/Discussion Hours: 3

    Course Description: Geographical variables that influence the location, character, and spread of sports at the national and global scale. Human cultures and diffusion. Themes associated with the geography of sports. Origin and spread of collegiate, professional, international, and Olympic sports.

    Course Authors(s): Kyle Redican, Ph.D.; Alan F. Arbogast, Ph.D.

  • GEO 221v  Introduction to Geographic Information

    GEO 221v  Introduction to Geographic Information

     

    Syllabus

    This course is designed to acquaint students with the tools and technology needed to access, manipulate, and display geographic information. It is a combined introduction to geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, global positioning systems (GPS), and cartography (the science and art of mapmaking). Students will be introduced to the application of basic GIS programs, aerial-image interpretation, and the ethical issues that geospatial technologies may raise. Students should emerge from this course with a greater understanding of the practical application of GIS and other geospatial technologies, and be able to create maps using a variety of publicly available mapping programs.

    Offered: At least one section of Introduction to Geographic Information is offered during the first or second summer session; it may also be offered during the spring semester. See MSU's Class Search for course availability.

    Credits: Total Credits: 3   Lecture/Recitation/Discussion Hours: 3

    Course Description: Principles and methods of spatial data collection, handling, analysis, and display. Introduction to remote sensing, geographic information systems, and cartography.

    Course Authors(s): Adrienne Goldsberry, M.A., AICP; Beth Weisenborn, M.S.

  • GEO 221LABv  Introduction to Geographic Information Laboratory

    GEO 221LABv  Introduction to Geographic Information Laboratory

     

    Syllabus

    This course is designed to acquaint students, through a series of online laboratory exercises and assignments, with the tools and technology needed to access, manipulate, and display geographic information. It is a combined introduction to geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, global positioning systems (GPS), and cartography (the science and art of mapmaking). Students will be introduced to the application of basic GIS programs, aerial-image interpretation, and the ethical issues that geospatial technologies may raise. Students emerge from this course with a greater understanding of the practical application of GIS and other geospatial technologies, and be able to create maps using a variety of publicly available mapping programs.

    Offered: At least one section of Introduction to Geographic Information LAB is offered during the first or second summer session; it is also be offered during the fall and spring semesters. See MSU's Class Search for course availability.

    Credits: Total Credits: 1   Lab Hours: 2

    Prerequisite: GEO 221 or concurrently

    Recommended Background: Basic computer and math skills

    Course Description: Basic skills for working with Geographic Information Systems, remotely sensed imagery, design of maps, geospatial tools and technologies for data analysis and problem-solving.

    Course Authors(s): Adrienne Goldsberry, M.A., AICP; Beth Weisenborn, M.S.; Kyle Redican, Ph.D.

  • GEO 324v  Remote Sensing of the Environment

    GEO 324v  Remote Sensing of the Environment

     

    Syllabus

    This course presents the technical and methodological skills needed to interpret various types of aerial images as a source of information in a variety of applications, including geography, forestry, urban planning, recreation management, crop and soil science, among many others. Lab exercises utilize an extensive set of digital aerial images displaying a wide variety of environments (urban, rural, residential, agricultural, et cetera) where students can practice the interpretation skills discussed in the online lessons and apply them to decision-making scenarios across a variety of disciplines.

    Offered: At least one section of Remote Sensing of the Environment is offered once a year, mostly during the spring semester. See MSU's Class Search for course availability.

    Credits: Total Credits: 4   Lecture/Recitation/Discussion Hours: 2   Lab Hours: 4

    Prerequisite: GEO 221

    Course Description: Features and interpretation methods of remotely-sensed imagery, especially black-and-white and color infrared airphotos. Basic features of radar, thermal, and multispectral imagery. Interpretation for agriculture, archaeology, fisheries, forestry, geography, landscape architecture, planning, and wildlife management.

    Course Authors(s): David P. Lusch, Ph.D., GISP; Bob Goodwin, M.A., GISP; Grant Gunn, Ph.D.; Erin Bunting, Ph.D.

  • GEO 325v  Geographic Information Systems

    GEO 325v  Geographic Information Systems

     

    Syllabus

    This course explores the technical and theoretical issues in the design, implementation, and use of geographic information systems (GIS) for a variety of practical applications and research topics. Students will learn the structure of a GIS, how spatial analysis is performed using GIS and the many applications of GIS in diverse professional and academic fields. A lab component is included to familiarize students with using GIS software in the analysis and display of geographic information, and applying this analysis to a variety of real-world scenarios.

    Offered: At least one section of Geographic Information Systems is offered once a year, mostly during the spring semester. See MSU's Class Search for course availability.

    Course Description: via Registrar

    Credits: Total Credits: 3   Lecture/Recitation/Discussion Hours: 2   Lab Hours: 2

    Prerequisite: GEO 221 and GEO 221L

    Course Description: Technical and theoretical issues in the design, implementation, and use of geographic information systems for research and applications.

    Course Authors(s): Kirk Goldsberry, Ph.D.; Adrienne Goldsberry, M.A., AICP; Grant Gunn, Ph.D.

  • GEO 326v  Cartographic Design and Production

    GEO 326v  Cartographic Design and Production

     

    Syllabus

    This course is an advanced course (previously Geo 423v) that introduces map design in three parts: graphic design and typography, reference map design and production, and design principles and contemporary media. Through lessons that offer conceptual explorations of mapping sciences and arts, and examples of both well- and poorly designed maps that illustrate mapping techniques, students will learn the intricacies of map production, for both printed and electronic display. A lab component is included to provide students with opportunities to make their own maps and practice cartographic representation, graphic design, web design, and map production. By the end of the course, students should have a thorough understanding of how and why maps are made, as well as a practical skill set that will enable them to communicate ideas via graphics.

    The online version of the course is reserved for students pursuing their Professional GIS Certificate and who do not intend to take higher-level Cartography courses in the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences.

    Offered: At least one section of Cartographic Design and Production (either lecture format or online) is typically offered during the fall semester. See MSU's Class Search for course availability.

    Credits: Total Credits: 4   Lecture/Recitation/Discussion Hours: 2   Lab Hours: 4

    Prerequisite: GEO 221 and GEO 221L

    Description: Map design, layout, and usability. Typography and color theory. Techniques of map production, print, and digital display.

    Course Authors(s): Kirk Goldsberry, Ph.D.; Adrienne Goldsberry, AICP, M.A.; Yi Shi, Ph.D.; Kyle Redican, Ph.D.; Beth Weisenborn, M.S.

  • GEO 330v  Regional Geography of the United States

    GEO 330v  Regional Geography of the United States

     

    Syllabus

    Taking a regional approach, GEO 330v introduces students to the human and physical landscapes of the United States. Each regional lesson is designed to help students understand why landscapes differ from place to place and what one could expect to find on the cultural landscape today. An exploration of the physical setting and historical settlement set the stage, providing insight into one of geography's foundation questions: why there? The course also contains video-based modules that focus on broader topics that have influence and impact in every region: early settlement and expansion, agricultural and food, and urbanization. These modules are designed to promote critical thinking by presenting multiple perspectives and ways of thinking about each of these topics. Accompanying each module is a reflection assignment that gives students the opportunity to demonstrate understanding of these perspectives and an application assignment that asks students to apply what they have learned. GEO 330v is ideal for students who wish to gain regional geographical knowledge while expanding their understanding of the interconnections among people and place within the United States.

    Offered: At least one section of Regional Geography of the United States is offered during the first or second summer sessions; it may also be offered during the fall semester. See MSU's Class Search for course availability.

    Credits: Total Credits: 3   Lecture/Recitation/Discussion Hours: 3

    Description: Regional analysis. Evolution and status of environmental, demographic, economic, and sociocultural patterns and processes.

    Course Authors(s): Jay R. Harman, Ph.D.; Juliegh Bookout, M.A.; Gary Schnakenberg, Ph.D.

  • GEO 331v  Geography of Canada

    GEO 331v  Geography of Canada

     

    Syllabus

    GEO 331v is a fully asynchronous course that uses both a thematic and regional approach to introduce students to the human and physical landscapes of Canada. An exploration of the physical setting, Aboriginal populations, and historical settlement set the stage, providing insight into one of geography's foundational questions: why there? Later lessons cover topics such as Canada’s health care system, the relationship between Canada and the United States, and the culture of Canadian sports and recreation.

    Each unit includes video-based lessons that explore a thematic area of Canada, while additional video lectures cover each of Canada’s six regions. Features like interactive vocabulary cards and concept accordion lists help to increase students' knowledge and understanding as they learn about the geography of Canada and why Canada’s populations and landscapes differ from place to place.

    GEO331v is ideal for students who wish to gain both thematic and regional geographical knowledge of the people and places of Canada

    Offered: Offered during the spring semester. See MSU's Class Search for course availability.

    Credits: Total Credits: 3   Lecture/Recitation/Discussion Hours: 3

    Course Description: Regional analysis. Evolution and status of environmental, demographic, economic, and sociocultural patterns and processes.

    Course Authors(s): Catherine Yansa, Ph.D.; Juliegh Bookout, M.A.

  • Iss 310v  People and the Environment

    Iss 310v  People and the Environment

     

    Syllabus

    This course is a merger of human and physical geography. As such, one of the course's primary emphases is on the relationship between natural systems and human society, and how humans have impacted and been impacted by natural systems at varying scales. The course is designed to provide students with a survey of regional and global interactions among people, their geographic location and utilization of space, and the physical environment. As an Integrated Studies in Social Science course, it also considers how the social sciences expand and develop our understanding of the human condition; that is, the life experiences common to all of humanity. People and the Environment is an ideal course for students wishing to broaden their knowledge of Earth systems, expand their understanding of current environmental issues, and gain an appreciation for humans' relationships with the Earth.

    Offered: At least one section of People and the Environment is offered during the first and second summer sessions; it may also be offered during the fall and spring semesters. See MSU's Class Search for course availability.

    Credits: Total Credits: 4   Lecture/Recitation/Discussion Hours: 2   Lab Hours: 4

    Course Description: Relationships between natural systems and human society viewed from a geographic perspective. 

    Course Authors(s): Alan F. Arbogast, Ph.D.; Juliegh Bookout, M.A.; Adrienne Goldsberry, M.A., AICP; Beth Weisenborn, M.S.

  • GEO 802v  Geospatial Technology

    GEO 802v  Geospatial Technology

     

    Syllabus

    This course is a graduate-level introduction to geospatial technologies and tools, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, cartography, and Global Positioning Systems (GPS). Its primary objective is to provide students with a comprehensive overview of the basic technologies employed by geographers, that is, geo-technologies. More specifically, the focus of the course is on the digital representation, analyses, and application of spatial theories. Topics explored include geographic information, remote sensing platforms, aerial image processing and interpretation, data collection using global positioning systems, spatial data structures, and cartographic design. Although, at its most basic, geospatial technology is simply a map represented digitally, students should emerge from this class knowing that geospatial technology has the capacity to be significantly more robust than the simple visualization of an area.

    Offered: At least one section of Geospatial Technology is offered during the fall semester. Typically we offer a section for Criminal Justice students and a section for non-CJ students. See MSU's Class Search for course availability.

    Credits: Total Credits: 3   Lecture/Recitation/Discussion Hours: 3

    Recommended Background: Familiarity with coordinate systems.

    Course Description: Comprehensive introduction to geotechnologies. Concepts and theories of remote sensing to include image interpretation and processing, Global Positioning Systems, spatial data structures, and geographic information systems.

    Course Authors(s): Robert Goodwin, GISP; Justin Booth, GISP; Adrienne Goldsberry, MA, AICP; Grant Gunn, Ph.D.; Nathan Moore, Ph.D.