Undergraduate Courses
For information on courses offered for the forthcoming semesters, as well as on instructor details, select the relevant semester option below. Please note the changes to some course codes, and pay attention to course preclusions provided in the detailed write-up for each course.
Courses listed are correct as at May 2023.
Important:
NUS will adopt three new academic terminologies from 1 August 2023 - “Module” will be renamed “Course”, “Modular Credit (MC)” will be renamed “Unit”, and “Cumulative Average Point (CAP)” will be renamed “Grade Point Average (GPA)”. The definition of a Module/Course and MC/Unit will remain the same, and there will be no change to the computation of the CAP/GPA.
All Courses
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion: GEK1001
Cross-listing:
Description:
In this course, we will explore contemporary socio-economic and environmental issues and processes shaping our world, and the geographical perspectives needed to better
understand them. Our primary goal is to develop students with strong ‘geographical imaginations’ better able to understand our human and physical environments and all
their complexities in a holistic way.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GEC1029
Description:
Football is found in one form or another in almost every part of the modern world. “Worlds of Football” takes the ubiquity and diversity of football as an entry point for critical examination of issues of geography and human culture at a range of scales – from the most intensely local and embodied, to globe-spanning networks. The course uses football as a window into: contextual and environmental variegation in human practices; worldly cultural politics (along lines of age, (dis)ability, class, gender, and race, among others); and processes through which everyday lifeworlds are bound up with distant and not-so-distant people and places.
C.A.: 60%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GEH1076
Description:
Football is found in one form or another in almost every part of the modern world. “Worlds of Football” takes the ubiquity and diversity of football as an entry point for critical examination of issues of geography and human culture at a range of scales – from the most intensely local and embodied, to globe-spanning networks. The course uses football as a window into: contextual and environmental variegation in human practices; worldly cultural politics (along lines of age, (dis)ability, class, gender, and race, among others); and processes through which everyday lifeworlds are bound up with distant and not-so-distant people and places.
C.A.: 60%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GEC1007
Description:
This is cross-Faculty course aimed at introducing Geopolitics to a broad range of students. The course is designed to be as engaging and interactive as possible: utilising various multi-media tools, including documentary clips, news media, filmic resources, popular journals and magazines. Not surprisingly, the course has a very lively section on Popular Geopolitics. In addition, we introduce students to the interactions of geopolitics and political space through detailed examination of different geopolitical eras and codes, specifically: Cold War Geopolitics and the Human Landscapes of Southeast Asia: and the so-called "Global War on Terror".
C.A.: 40%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GEH1022
Description:
This is cross-Faculty module aimed at introducing Geopolitics to a broad range of students. The course is designed to be as engaging and interactive as possible: utilising various multi-media tools, including documentary clips, news media, filmic resources, popular journals and magazines. Not surprisingly, the course has a very lively section on Popular Geopolitics. In addition, we introduce students to the interactions of geopolitics and political space through detailed examination of different geopolitical eras and codes, specifically: Cold War Geopolitics and the Human Landscapes of Southeast Asia: and the so-called "Global War on Terror".
C.A.: 40%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 3-1-0-3-3
Pre-requisite(s): Nil
Preclusions: GEK2001, SSA2202, GESS1001
Cross-listings: GEK2001, SSA2202
Description:
This course attempts to understand the rationale of changes in Singapore’s urban landscape.
It places these changes within a framework that considers Singapore’s efforts to globalise and examines how policies are formulated with the idea of sustaining an economy that has integral links sub-regionally with Southeast Asia while developing new spatial linkages that will strengthen its position in the global network.
Emphasis is also given to recent discussions about how diversity and difference in the perception and use of space pose a challenge to the utilitarian and functional definition adopted by the state.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 3-1-0-3-3
Pre-requisite(s): Nil
Preclusions: GEK2001, SSA2202, GES1003
Cross-listings: GEK2001, SSA2202
Description:
This course attempts to understand the rationale of changes in Singapore’s urban landscape.
It places these changes within a framework that considers Singapore’s efforts to globalise and examines how policies are formulated with the idea of sustaining an economy that has integral links sub-regionally with Southeast Asia while developing new spatial linkages that will strengthen its position in the global network.
Emphasis is also given to recent discussions about how diversity and difference in the perception and use of space pose a challenge to the utilitarian and functional definition adopted by the state.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Prerequisite/Cross-listing: Nil
Preclusion: GESS1002
Description:
The course will focus on the functions of the biophysical environment of the city state of Singapore. The topics include geology, soils, river systems, water supply, natural reserves, green areas, land reclamation and coastal environments. The environmental problems that arise from the development of a large tropical city within a limited area, and the possible solutions for such problems will be examined.
The course does not require an extensive science or mathematics background.
C.A.: 60%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Prerequisite/Cross-listing: Nil
Preclusion: GES1004
Description:
The course will focus on the functions of the biophysical environment of the city state of Singapore. The topics include geology, soils, river systems, water supply, natural reserves, green areas, land reclamation and coastal environments. The environmental problems that arise from the development of a large tropical city within a limited area, and the possible solutions for such problems will be examined.
The course does not require an extensive science or mathematics background.
C.A.: 60%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion: GEX1003
Description:
In general, this course is aimed at getting student to critically engage with the ‘work’ or ‘power’ of maps in shaping the historical emergence of the modern world and in its ongoing transformation. To do this we will combine diverse modes of learning, covering issues of knowledge and content (the history of cartography), practical skills of map making/reading, and critical skills of evaluating and interpreting maps. We will stimulate a critical awareness of mapping as an evolving technology that has far-reaching social and political considerations.
C.A.: 50%; Duration of examination: 50%
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion: GEX1003
Description:
In general, this course is aimed at getting student to critically engage with the ‘work’ or ‘power’ of maps in shaping the historical emergence of the modern world and in its ongoing transformation. To do this we will combine diverse modes of learning, covering issues of knowledge and content (the history of cartography), practical skills of map making/reading, and critical skills of evaluating and interpreting maps. We will stimulate a critical awareness of mapping as an evolving technology that has far-reaching social and political considerations.
C.A.: 50%; Duration of examination: 50%
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-1-4-2
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusions: -
Description:
This introductory course on methods has two fundamental aims. In addition to highlight the ‘best practices’ in research, this course aims to equip students with a range of practical qualitative and quantitative research skills that will be ‘transferable’ to a variety of post-university situations.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: NA
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusions: GE2202 and GE2222
Description:
This compulsory course provides an introduction to political and economic geography, and serves as a gateway to more specialised level 3000 and 4000 modules in these fields. It advances two key arguments, namely that politics and the economy are (1) tightly intertwined and (2) innately geographical phenomenon. It explores how politics, the economy and the environment are constituted through different sets of actors and their interrelationships. It mobilises core geographical concepts, notably place, space, scale and territory, along with notions of power and resistance, to offer a distinctive perspective on processes of uneven development in the contemporary world.
C.A.: 50%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-2-0-2-4
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusions: GE2225
Description:
This course is an introduction to Earth Systems Science, providing students with an understanding of the key interactions between the different spheres of planet Earth: the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and the anthroposphere. In particular, students will develop an understanding of the holistic view and thinking about interconnections and interrelationships in the earth’s systems and sub-systems. This course will highlight key concepts shaping Earth Systems Science, such as sustainability, planetary boundaries and safe operating spaces.
C.A.: 70%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-0-2-3-3
Preclusion(s)/Pre-requisites: Nil
Description:
This course focuses on the important concepts and the practical use of Geographic Information System (GIS) in problem solving in both the social and physical sciences. Topics to be covered include vector and raster data formats and their analytical functions. This course is designed as learning through practicing, so practical laboratory excises utilising GIS software such as ArcGIS will be major classroom activities. This course is mounted for students throughout NUS with interests in GIS applications in sciences, social sciences, engineering and business analysis.
C.A.: 70%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Pre-requisite(s)/ Co-requisite(s)/ Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s):
Description:
Living Space introduces students to the idea that space is lived and experienced as part social and cultural life. Drawing from the arts, food, sports and film, and/or other related topics, the module delves into critical developments in social and cultural geography, providing students with the foundational knowledge and required grounding to read advanced courses in the sub-discipline. It introduces methodological approaches which include ‘ways of seeing’ and ‘landscape as text’. These are critical to understanding the human/culture and environment/space relationship.
C.A.: 60%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-4-1
Pre-requisite(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): Nil
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
This course offers students an in-depth exploration of the practice of Ecological Restoration and the science of Restoration Ecology within the geographical context of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030). Students will explore species distributions, landscape processes, and community-driven ecological restoration in tropical ecosystems of Southeast Asia. Students will engage with local communities, applying interdisciplinary perspectives to real-world ecological challenges, fostering empathy, contributing to community resilience and exploring conservation solutions. This international immersive two-week experience integrates fieldwork and problem-solving. It aims to deepen students' understanding of societal issues, encouraging reflection and action towards sustainable community resilience.
C.A.: 100%; Exam: 0%
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Pre-requisite(s): Open to CHS and all other students (Priority for CHS students)
Preclusion(s): XD3103
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
This course introduces earth and planetary science in an integrated manner through the intersection of physical geography and astronomy, providing students with an understanding of Earth as a planet, alien worlds, universal processes and life beyond Earth. In particular, the students will develop an understanding of processes common to planets, with a view to understanding the potential future human exploration and colonization of the solar system. This course will also highlight the key concepts shaping planetary system science and how discoveries from different fields are changing the interdisciplinary knowledge relevant to the earth and planetary science.
C.A.: 100%; Exam: 0%,
Units: 4
Workload: 2-0.5-0-2.5-0-5
Pre-requisite(s): Priority for CHS students. This course is reserved for students from Year 2 onwards. Students are encouraged to have completed at least two of the Level-1000 CHS Common Curriculum courses, which may include: HSl1000, HSHl 000, CHS Data Literacy course, and CHS Digital Literacy course.
Preclusion(s): GEH1034; NST2044
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
Carbon emissions from energy account for over two-thirds of all global emissions and offer an avenue for mitigating climate change via a transition to clean energy. Electrifying end-use sectors and shifting electricity production towards clean sources form the basis of the decarbonised energy transition.
Challenges associated with decarbonisation require an interdisciplinary approach that considers scientific and socio-environmental constraints and opportunities. This course will introduce students to the pillars, major challenges and benefits of transitioning to clean energy. Students will learn how the harnessing of clean energy technologies can be optimised to ensure rapid and fair transition to a low/zero-carbon future.
C.A.: 100%; Exam: 0%
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-0-4
Pre-requisite(s): This course is reserved for students from Year 2 onwards.
Students are encouraged to have completed at least two of the Level-1000 CHS Common Curriculum courses, which may include: HSI1000, HSH1000, HSS1000, CHS Data Literacy course, and CHS Digital Literacy course.
Preclusion(s): Nil
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
Within the context of environmental degradation and promoting sustainable lifestyles, this course will focus on four critical environmental issues: clean and adequate water for everyone; sustainable food production; healthy urban environments, and protecting endangered species. By synthesising perspectives from environmental sciences and social-cultural geography, students will learn to critically evaluate environmental initiatives and policies by comparing evidence-based arguments and opinion-based public discourses. The course will expose students to the challenges of reversing damage to ecosystems by highlighting the difficulties of reconciling conflicting views and confronting the ambiguities and complexities surrounding real-world initiatives and the uncertain outcomes generated through them.
C.A.: 100%; Exam: 0%
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Nil
Pre-requisite(s)/ Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
This course places urban planning in relation to wider social, political and economic trends as well as geographical contexts. Students will be challenged to 1) identify the complex influence of planning in shaping cities and everyday urban life; and 2) critically evaluate strategies and possibilities of planning for better urban futures. Examples are drawn mainly from rapidly changing regions in Asia, and include issues on urban redevelopment, housing, poverty, public space, resistance and state-society collaborations.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s)/Pre-requisite(s)/ Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
This course examines the impact of feminism on human geography, from the call to insert women into geographical analyses and take into account gender relations in rethinking dominant definitions of space, place, landscape and nature to more recent debates on diversity and difference. It also explores the politics and practice of doing feminist research in geography. Drawing on case studies in both developed and developing countries, the gendering of specific sites (ranging from the home to the nation) and processes (e.g. migration) is explicated in the module. The course is targeted at all students interested in gender issues.
C.A.: 70%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s)/Pre-requisite(s)/ Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
This course examines important geographical, ecological and political concepts and approaches to natural resources management. In particular, we focus on ownership regimes, access, exploitation and conservation in different social, economic and cultural contexts. Detailed cases of fisheries, forestry, freshwater and agriculture conflicts and problems are discussed.
C.A.: 50%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-0-2-4-2
Preclusion(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Pre-requisite(s): students must have taken GE2215
Description:
This course focuses on the applications of GIS and remote sensing in a geographical context. The emphasis is on the use of spatial data in business analysis, environmental planning, and resource and impact assessment. One section of the module covers topics on digital image processing with emphasis on the knowledge and understanding of techniques used in a planning context. The second section deals with spatial analysis and visualisation for geographical and business analysis (GE2215 is a prerequisite for this course).
C.A.: 100%
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Pre-requisite(s)/Preclusion(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
This course evaluates the intersections and diversions between development and leisure/tourism. Using critical development lenses, the course will first critique “big D” Development’s (specific intentional interventions to achieve improvement or progress) globalized approaches in tourism development and then “respond” to these critiques by considering more localized political, economic, and cultural connections in tourism strategies. While localized “development” projects often suggest more equitable growth, input from local stakeholders, an incorporation of livelihood strategies and grounded knowledge, and more “sustainable” models with a long-term sensibility, the module will take a critical position toward these ideas as well.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 8
Workload: 10-0-0-20-10
Preclusion(s): GE3230
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
This is essentially a course designed to encourage students to apply different fieldwork methods in small-team projects in an overseas context within the region. The course exposes students to different geographical methods, both human and physical, and as such it is an ideal preparation for any student wishing to undertake further primary research at higher levels in geography, and indeed other social science disciplines.
After a series of lectures/seminars on fieldwork methods, fieldwork ethics, and health and safety issues in the field (which may include some basic introductory language classes), students then undertake a 2 – 5 week period of field study overseas, depending on logistical and other constraints. The previous field studies have been for periods of 4-5 weeks overseas in Thailand and Malaysia. Whilst overseas, students undergo orientation workshops, meet peers in host universities, visit potential field sites before conducting an intensive period of fieldwork in small groups of 3-5 students.
The course concludes with (group and individual) project report writing and presentations. Field Studies provides basic training, a chance to apply skills and techniques learnt in the classroom in real field settings, and rich opportunities for cultural exchanges.
C.A.: 100%;
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-1-3-3
Preclusion(s)/Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
Natural hazards result in high losses in human life and welfare, property, resource productivity, and infrastructure. Often human activities interact with the landscape to exacerbate the risks associated with potentially hazardous areas. Various types of natural hazards, including tropical cyclones, floods, drought, wildfire, storm surges, rapid mass movements, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and tsunami will be highlighted with respect to their origins, geographical distribution, forms and processes. The course will also describe some of the links that exist between natural hazards and environmental change. Recent and historical examples will be presented from the Asia-Pacific region and worldwide. Societal vulnerability, awareness, preparedness and similar challenges are mentioned, particularly within the context of the Pacific Rim. Hazard mitigation and adaptation strategies will also be discussed.
C.A.: 50%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Pre-requisite(s)/Preclusion (s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
This course examines the geography of development from the micro-geographical (local) to the macro-geographical (global) perspectives. It looks at the changing geography of economic activities and development processes under three thematic issues: i) poverty and inequality, ii) people, environment and development, iii) institutions, governance and the reality. The relevant theories developed and applied by geographers (and non-geographers) and corresponding case studies in different regions of the world will be introduced to explain the contextual issues throughout the course.
C.A.: 50%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Pre-requisite(s)/Preclusion (s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
This course examines the tenets of transport geography with a contemporary view in mind. Not only is it interested in the subdiscipline's tradition of describing and explaining the Earth's transport systems, it also seeks to advance understandings of how transport systems are changing. The course will examine key land, sea and air transport technologies, consider their spatial characteristics, and interrogate emerging trends that could impact the future geographies of transport. It is concerned with practical questions of transport organisation and design, as well as socially pertinent challenges like inequity and sustainability. Case studies will be drawn from Singapore and beyond.
C.A.: 70%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-0-2-4-2
Pre-requisite(s): GE2215
Preclusion (s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
This course examines the range of considerations necessary to develop a GIS database and perform spatial analysis. It is intended for geographers, planners, IT managers and computer scientists who have already acquired an introductory knowledge of the field. The module begins with an in-depth understanding of raster GIS analysis and its applications in physical or urban environment. It then provides formal understanding of the development of a GIS database.
Topics covered include representation and storage of spatial data, database design, and basic scripting language in ArcGIS. Students will obtain substantial hands-on GIS skills in support of geographic analyses.
NOTE: This module will be offered in AY2022/2023 Semester 1.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: Nil
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-2-2-3
Pre-requisite(s): Nil
Preclusion (s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
This course aims to provide Geography major students with the basic foundation skills, necessary knowledge, and recommended practices for the preparation of honours theses (HT).
These essential skills and knowledge include philosophies, theories, and key concepts in human and physical geographies, research ethics and field safety, proposal writing and literature review, and other crucial skills and techniquest that all Geography major students should possess.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: Nil
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion: GE2224
Description:
This course explores debates in geography about social issues. It emphasises the relationship between social identity and social space, and how different places reflect and shape diverse ways of life. The course examines the role of space in the interplay of different social groups (e.g. ethnic groups, men/women), and in relation to different aspects of daily life (e.g. housing, leisure). Its emphasis, however, is on how to think about these issues in different scales/contexts (streets, public spaces, global cities). The course is intended for geography majors, and students throughout NUS with an interest in the relationship between society and space.
C.A.: 70%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Pre-requisite(s)/Preclusion(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description
This course offers a work and labour-based perspective on the contemporary global economy, which is still predominantly studied from the viewpoint of firms and states in the social sciences. It profiles the vast range of work types and conditions that constitute the economy, and their wider societal implications. Moreover, it develops an explicitly geographical perspective, using the lenses of place, space and scale to reveal the inherent spatialities of worlds of work.
C.A.: 50%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE2204
Description
This course is designed for students with an interest in urban geography and global studies. Applying urban theories to various case studies drawn from Asia and beyond, the module critically examines global urban systems and draws attention to the worlding dynamics of cities in transition from geographical perspectives. The first part of the course focuses on the theories and factors that contribute to changes of cities, including immigration, economic restructuring, geopolitics, and technologies. The second half of the course specifically examines the roles of states and their power relationships with citizens in the transitional processes.
C.A.: 70%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Pre-requisite(s)/Preclusion(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE2206
Description
This course introduces students to contemporary debates in population from a geographical perspective, focusing on the ways that geography is implicated in the processes and meanings of life and death. Besides examining historical and contemporary population trends and demographic transitions, this course also investigates discourses and politics around topics such as fertility and women’s bodies, migration and transnational life, disease and health‐care, and ageing, death and dying. The course enables students to think critically about contemporary population problems and solutions and to understand how these influence policy formulation and everyday lives. This course is open to all students who are interested in population issues from a social science perspective.
C.A.: 60%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2.5-4.5
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE2221
Description
This course introduces conceptual approaches for understanding the myriad relationships between human societies and their biophysical environments. It addresses three key questions. First, how are nature and society interconnected? Second, what theoretical and methodological approaches can be used to study nature-society relationships? Third, how can societal relationships with nature be improved in ways that are sustainable and just? These questions will be explored using different social theories, particularly from the interdisciplinary field of political ecology, which will be applied to contemporary environmental issues. Students will learn how to critically think, discuss, and write about complex nature-society interactions.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-1-3
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE2226
Description:
What do we mean by Southeast Asia? Are we referring to a physical area? A shared history? A group of distinct nations? Or is Southeast Asia a constantly changing flow of people, capital, and beliefs?
We explore these questions to better understand how ideas about a region influence our relationships to each other and the wider world. We investigate the construction of political boundaries, socio-ecological challenges of economic development, and diversity of social and cultural landscapes in the region. Students will learn to apply key concepts and practices from human geography to critically investigate historical and contemporary Southeast Asia.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-0-1-5-2
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE2227
Description:
This course covers the art, science, and ethics of mapmaking and map use. It aims to introduce students the design principles and techniques for creating maps with contemporary mapping tools. Topics covered include conceptualisation of geographic phenomena, projection and distortion, geospatial data manipulation and presentation, thematic map design, interactive geographic visualization, and emerging trends in cartography and geovisualisation. The course emphasises effective visual thinking and visual communication with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). It is mounted for students with interests in GIS and map design as a medium for communication.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-0-1-2-5
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE2228
Description:
Weather has an immediate effect on all of us and climate is important in human affairs on a global level. This course provides an introduction to both weather and climate. Processes underlying the behaviour of the atmospheric environment from local to global scales are discussed. The module commences with a discussion of atmospheric concepts in a visual and practical manner. Understanding and application of basic meteorological principles will help to explain environmental phenomena such as clouds and precipitation, tropical storms and global climate change. This course is appropriate for students from all Faculties.
C.A.: 60%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-2-0-2-4
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE2230
Description:
The extraction, production, distribution and use of energy sources has significant environmental, social, political and economic impacts. Impacts are multi‐scalar, ranging from global climate change to socio‐cultural disruption at local, national and regional scales. This course exposes students to these impacts and related energy geopolitics with detailed case studies. The course also gives students a comprehensive background of the development and use of promising future post-carbon alternative energy sources such as wind, solar, geothermal, tidal, and biofuels. It discusses how to build the energy-efficient architecture of a low carbon economy and develop sustainable energy system design for the future.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-0-2-2-4
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE2229
Description:
Water is present and moves through all parts of the Earth system; the freshwater component, amounting to about 1% of water on Earth, is fundamental to life. This module focuses on rivers, lakes, estuaries, wetlands and adjoining land (coastal and riparian zones). Taking a global perspective, with a focus on the tropics and Singapore, this course explores the reservoirs, pathways and functioning of the hydrologic cycle, and the interactions between water and land, both on and below Earth’s surface. Dynamic hydrological processes and their effects, aquatic ecosystems, human interactions and impacts and eco- hydrology are also covered.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-0-2-2-4
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE2220
Description:
Earth’s geosphere – the ground beneath our feet – may seem constant and relatively unchanging, but nothing could be further from the truth. This course examines the main processes that combine to influence the development of Earth’s surface and the formation of and changes to landscapes. The origins and development of landforms, particularly in the humid tropics, is explored, as are the characteristics, functioning, dynamics and interactions within and between major associated ecosystems. Human- induced landform and ecosystem modifications are also considered. The knowledge obtained in this course is applicable to broader environmental management issues.
C.A.: 50%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): Nil
Description:
The global financial system is a central component of the world economy, within which financial centres such as London, New York, Shanghai and Singapore act as key decision-making centres. Financial globalisation is, however, an extremely complex and controversial process, generating contradictory interpretations and policy proposals. This course introduces and develops a financial geography perspective, understood as the study of the spatiality of money and finance, and its implications for the economy, society, and nature. It introduces students to the vocabulary of finance, drawing on research relating to the global financial system, financial centres, financial globalisation, and their geographical footprint.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): Nil
Description:
This course traces emergence and development of geopolitics as a subdiscipline, focusing on the historical and contemporary geopolitical forces that shape Southeast Asia and the region’s relations with the world. It will cover the development of geopolitics in the region from colonial times, through to the Cold War and post-Cold War era, including Big Power conflicts and US-China rivalries and the Covid-19 pandemic. Through geopolitical lenses, students will examine issues related to major- and extra-Southeast Asian powers’ influence on the region, forced migration, contested territories/nationalisms, environmental conflicts and intra- and inter-regional geopolitical concerns, e.g. ASEAN’s engagements with other regional/global institutions.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 2-0-2-3-3
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): Nil
Description:
Geography increasingly relies on empirical data to understand social and environmental phenomena. This course will build a foundation for applied data analysis, emphasizing the fundamental data science tasks of wrangling, visualization, and analysis. Each of these tasks requires an understanding of quantitative approaches to generate and evaluate hypotheses. As such, the module will also cover essential concepts in statistics including expectation, hypothesis testing, and regression. By the end of the course , students will have a strong foundation to analyze multivariate data and communicate findings using open-source programming tools.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 200 working hours
Pre-requisite(s):
- The GISIM is for Geography majors who are taking/intend to declare GIS minor, subject to the specific requirements of the hiring company or government agency.
- Students must have completed GE2215 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems, before taking this module.
- Some companies may also require students to pass GE2227 or GE3252 and/or GE3238.
Preclusion(s): GE3550B and any other XX3550 module [Note: Students who change major may not do a second internship in their new major.]
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
This course presents Geography majors who are taking/intend to declare GIS minor, a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in using GIS. It allows the students to apply their geospatial technology skills, such as spatial database management, data visualisation, and data analysis, in a real working environment. Through mentoring from internship managers of employing companies/public sectors and NUS advisors, students are trained to apply theoretical aspects of GIS for solving real-world problems. They will also be able to collaborate with colleagues from the employing company or agency, and develop research questions involving the use of GIS in environmental issues.
C.A.: 100%
Units: 4
Workload: 200 working hours
Pre-requisite(s): Students should:
- have completed a minimum of 24 Units in Geography; and
- have declared Geography as their major
Preclusion(s): GE3550A and any other XX3550 module [Note: Students who change major may not do a second internship in their new major.]
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
Internships will take place in organisations or companies located in Singapore Through the mentoring from internship managers of the employing companies/organisations and NUS advisors, students are trained to apply theoretical aspects to solving real prblems Students will learn how policies and practices that they read about are applied in a real world situation. The hands-on experience they gain while on internship will provide an added dimension to their education. It will give thema practical edge and prepare them for work in the future.
You can register for GE3550B only if you secure an internship program approved by the Dept. You have to proactively identify and approach a lecturer who is willing to supervise you under this course , and an organisation or company willing to host you as an intern. The internships are normally carried out during the vacation period. If you are interested in an internship under GE3550B, ahead of the vacation period you should approach a relevant lecturer (i.e. with a topical interest) to enquire whether such internship opportunities available. Before you proceed with an internship under GE3550B, you must ensure that the internship program has been approved by the Dept.
C.A.: 100%
A UROP involves the student working with a supervisor, and usually in a team, on an existing research project. It has relevance to the student’s Major, and involves the application of subject knowledge, methodology and theory in reflection upon the research project.
UROPs usually take place within FASS or ARI, though a few involve international partners. All are vetted and approved by the Major department. All are assessed.
UROPs can be proposed by supervisor or student, and require the approval of the Major department.
The CA components in UROP is fixed and cannot be adjusted: Essay (50%), Journal (30%), Research Involvement (20%). For more details, please click here.
C.A.: 100%;
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Pre-requisite(s)/Preclusion(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
The course provides an overview of geology - the science of the earth. An understanding of geology is important to many disciplines, providing information about the physical and chemical processes that determine the distribution of resources, location of hazards, operation of surface processes and the interaction between engineering structures and earth surface materials. The four components of the course begin with consideration of the earth's structure and the role of plate tectonics, before considering the nature of earth surface materials and the functioning of earth surface systems.
C.A.: 50%; Exam: 2 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4202HM, GE3880B
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards: Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, or 28 Units in SN.
Description:
This course examines the interrelationships between transnational corporations (TNCs) and regional development in an era of global economic restructuring. The course seeks to achieve a mixed blend of theory and practice of TNCs and regional development. It provides students with not only description and explanation of TNC operations, but also practical knowledge in analysing the impact of TNCs on regional development. In addition to regular readings, students are expected to conduct specific case studies on the role of TNCs in regional development.
C.A.: 50%; Exam: 50%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Total: 100%
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-0-3-9.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4202, GE3880B
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2019 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, or 28 Units in SN, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- Global Studies students: Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GL/GL-recognised non-language courses, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Cohort 2020:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, or 28 Units in SN, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Description:
This course examines the interrelationships between transnational corporations (TNCs) and regional development in an era of global economic restructuring. The course seeks to achieve a mixed blend of theory and practice of TNCs and regional development. It provides students with not only description and explanation of TNC operations, but also practical knowledge in analysing the impact of TNCs on regional development. In addition to regular readings, students are expected to conduct specific case studies on the role of TNCs in regional development.
C.A.: 75%; Exam: 50% Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Total: 125%
Units: 4
Workload: 0-0-0-2-8
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4204HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards: Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, or 28 Units in SN. Must have read and passed GE1101E
Descriptions:
This module focuses on the geographical politics of urban knowledge production and how they impact our understandings of contemporary urbanisation. It starts by outlining the dominant theoretical trends of urbanisation that are largely inspired by the experiences of Euro-American cities. It then introduces some ways of making sense of different aspects of contemporary urbanisation when adopting theoretical starting points from outside "the global North". Students will be challenged to re-learn what they know about cities and develop alternative knowledges about contemporary urbanisation.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 5
Workload: 0-0-0-3-9.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4204
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2019 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE or 28 Units in SN, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- Global Studies students:
Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GL/GL-recognised non-language course, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Cohort 2020 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, or 28 Units in SN, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Descriptions:
This course focuses on the geographical politics of urban knowledge production and how they impact our understandings of contemporary urbanisation. It starts by outlining the dominant theoretical trends of urbanisation that are largely inspired by the experiences of Euro-American cities. It then introduces some ways of making sense of different aspects of contemporary urbanisation when adopting theoretical starting points from outside "the global North". Students will be challenged to re-learn what they know about cities and develop alternative knowledges about contemporary urbanisation.
C.A.: 125%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units : 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4207HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards: Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
BES XDP students : Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Descriptions:
This course provides an understanding of the tropical coastal ecosystems and evaluates various approaches and techniques to achieve sustainable coastal management.
The issues for discussion include sea level rise, beach erosion, coral reefs degradation, mangroves depletion, small-scale tourism development, and coastal management strategies of small island states.
Case studies are taken mainly from Southeast Asia. The module should appeal to all geography students taking an applied approach to coastal management.
C.A.: 60%; Exam: 40% ; 2 hrs
Units : 5
Workload: 0-3-0-2-7.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4207
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2019 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- Global Studies students :
Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GL/GL-recognised non-language courses with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours Track. - BES students from both specialisations :
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Cohort 2020 :
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations :
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Descriptions:
This course provides an understanding of the tropical coastal ecosystems and evaluates various approaches and techniques to achieve sustainable coastal management.
The issues for discussion include sea level rise, beach erosion, coral reefs degradation, mangroves depletion, small-scale tourism development, and coastal management strategies of small island states.
Case studies are taken mainly from Southeast Asia. The module should appeal to all geography students taking an applied approach to coastal management.
C.A.: 85%; Exam: 40% ; 2 hrs
Total: 125%
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4211HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards : Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE.
BES XDP students : Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
This course adopts a catchment-based approach to discussing fluvial and hydrological processes and their application to water management issues, with emphasis on Asia.
A detailed analysis of the changes that occur to these processes as a result of the degradation and urbanisation of catchments is a particular focus of the module, as is the use of Asian and local examples.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0hrs
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-2-7.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4211
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2019 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- Global Studies students :
Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GL/GL-recognised non-language courses with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours Track. - BES students from both specialisations :
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Cohort 2020 :
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations :
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
This course adopts a catchment-based approach to discussing fluvial and hydrological processes and their application to water management issues, with emphasis on Asia.
A detailed analysis of the changes that occur to these processes as a result of the degradation and urbanisation of catchments is a particular focus of the module, as is the use of Asian and local examples.
C.A.: 125%; Duration of examination: 0hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4212HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards: Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE.
BES XDP students: Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Descriptions:
This course provides an introduction to the application of models (analytical, numerical, physical) through theory and practice in environmental or social sciences. Strengths and weaknesses of individual model types are discussed. Hands-on practical experience in the design and application of computer-based modelling will be a focus of the course. After completion the students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the concept of modelling, explain why and how modelling is employed in environmental or social sciences and possess skills in developing and critically assessing such models.
C.A.: 100%;
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-4-5.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4212
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2019 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations :
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. - Global Studies students :
Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GL/GL-recognised non-language courses, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Cohort 2020 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations :
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Descriptions:
This course provides an introduction to the application of models (analytical, numerical, physical) through theory and practice in environmental or social sciences. Strengths and weaknesses of individual model types are discussed. Hands-on practical experience in the design and application of computer-based modelling will be a focus of the course. After completion the students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the concept of modelling, explain why and how modelling is employed in environmental or social sciences and possess skills in developing and critically assessing such models.
C.A.: 125%;
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4213HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards: Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, or 28 MCs in SN.
Descriptions:
This course facilitates a theoretical and methodological engagement with ‘the cultural’ in Geography and related fields of study.
Cultural Analysis examines: theoretical developments in geographical studies of culture, particularly interrelations with domains that have conventionally been considered extra-cultural (such as ‘the economic’ and ‘the political’); and methodological techniques and approaches for studying re-conceptualised notions of culture (in particular, ‘cultural politics’ and ‘cultural economy’).
The course will appeal to advanced students in Geography and related disciplines interested in interrelationships between culture and space.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: NA
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-3-6.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4213
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2019 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, or 28 Units in SN with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- Global Studies students -
Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GL/GL-recognised non-language courses, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Cohort 2020 :
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, or 28 MCs in SN with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Descriptions:
This course facilitates a theoretical and methodological engagement with ‘the cultural’ in Geography and related fields of study.
Cultural Analysis examines: theoretical developments in geographical studies of culture, particularly interrelations with domains that have conventionally been considered extra-cultural (such as ‘the economic’ and ‘the political’); and methodological techniques and approaches for studying re-conceptualised notions of culture (in particular, ‘cultural politics’ and ‘cultural economy’).
The course will appeal to advanced students in Geography and related disciplines interested in interrelationships between culture and space.
C.A.: 125%; Duration of examination: NA
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4214HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- To read and pass GE2215.
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE.
Cohort 2021 onwards: (BES XDP students)
- To read and pass GE2215.
- Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
The objectives of this course are to build upon the fundamentals taught in GE2215 and GE3216 through more in-depth study of remote sensing technology, error analysis, calibration, and image analysis. On the other hand, various applications of remote sensing to different subjects are covered in greater detail than in lower level courses, with the introduction of various kinds of remotely-sensed data.
This course is taught with lectures, laboratories/tutorials and final project. Students are required to initiate, present and submit the final project to complete the course requirement.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0hrs
Units: 5
Workload: 0-2-3-3-4.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4214
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Read and passed GE2215.
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.50 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
To read and pass GE2215. Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
The objectives of this course are to build upon the fundamentals taught in GE2215 and GE3216 through more in-depth study of remote sensing technology, error analysis, calibration, and image analysis. On the other hand, various applications of remote sensing to different subjects are covered in greater detail than in lower level courses, with the introduction of various kinds of remotely-sensed data.
This course is taught with lectures, laboratories/tutorials and final project. Students are required to initiate, present and submit the final project to complete the course requirement.
C.A.: 125%; Duration of examination: 0hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4217HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards: Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE.
Description:
This course focuses on the relationship between space and power.
It investigates how political processes shape human geography, and conversely, how assumptions about geography underscore global politics. We will examine key themes, concepts, & theories that define the study of critical politics from a geographical perspective.
Students will gain a critical understanding of and appreciation for the historical and contemporary challenges of sovereignty, territoriality, governmentality, identity, citizenship, difference, violence, genocide, colonialism, and war.
The course culminates with the themes of resistance, emancipation, direct action, and anarchism, which will allow students to consider alternative configurations of space and power.
C.A.: 50%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-3-6.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4217
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2019 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- Global Studies students -
Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GL/GL-recognised non-language courses, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Cohort 2020 :
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Description:
This course focuses on the relationship between space and power.
It investigates how political processes shape human geography, and conversely, how assumptions about geography underscore global politics. We will examine key themes, concepts, & theories that define the study of critical politics from a geographical perspective.
Students will gain a critical understanding of and appreciation for the historical and contemporary challenges of sovereignty, territoriality, governmentality, identity, citizenship, difference, violence, genocide, colonialism, and war.
The course culminates with the themes of resistance, emancipation, direct action, and anarchism, which will allow students to consider alternative configurations of space and power.
C.A.: 75%; Exam: 50% ; 2 hrs
Total: 125%
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4218HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students of both specialisations -
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Descriptions:
Recent years have seen an emergence of ‘critical tourism studies’ focused on tourism’s role in alleviating local problems and addressing global inequalities between countries and communities. Part of this discourse has focused on Asian tourism development and how Asian scholars have interpreted what is critical to their part of the world and the needs of indigenous communities. This course explores how different forms of tourism development are realised in the particularities of Asian socio-cultural, economic, political and intellectual contexts. More specifically, it highlights the significance of Asian realities in defining the scopes and outcomes of tourism changes and knowledge production.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-4-5.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4218
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2019 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students of both specialisations -
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. - Global Studies students -
Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE or 28 Units in GL/GL-recognised non-language courses, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Cohort 2020 :
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students of both specialisations -
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE modules. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Descriptions:
Recent years have seen an emergence of ‘critical tourism studies’ focused on tourism’s role in alleviating local problems and addressing global inequalities between countries and communities. Part of this discourse has focused on Asian tourism development and how Asian scholars have interpreted what is critical to their part of the world and the needs of indigenous communities. This course explores how different forms of tourism development are realised in the particularities of Asian socio-cultural, economic, political and intellectual contexts. More specifically, it highlights the significance of Asian realities in defining the scopes and outcomes of tourism changes and knowledge production.
C.A.: 125%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4219HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, or 28 Units in MS, or 28 Units in SE.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
This course focuses on the intersection between development and environment in Southeast Asia. Utilising a range of conceptual lenses from sustainable development to political ecology, the course interrogates the varied environmental impacts and ramifications of the development of the region.
The course pays particular attention to the ways in which environmental change affects everyday lives. Case studies include issues such as upland living and forest peoples, trans-boundary environmental issues, and the role and place of Buddhism as an eco-centric religion.
The course encourages a critical view of the trade-offs between economic growth (development) and environmental protection.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: NA
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-3-6.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4219
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2012 to 2020:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, or 28 Units in MS, or 28 Units in SE with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
This course focuses on the intersection between development and environment in Southeast Asia. Utilising a range of conceptual lenses from sustainable development to political ecology, the course interrogates the varied environmental impacts and ramifications of the development of the region.
The course pays particular attention to the ways in which environmental change affects everyday lives. Case studies include issues such as upland living and forest peoples, trans-boundary environmental issues, and the role and place of Buddhism as an eco-centric religion.
The course encourages a critical view of the trade-offs between economic growth (development) and environmental protection.
C.A.: 125%; Duration of examination: NA
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4220HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES XDP students:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
The course provides an opportunity for students to gain hands-on skills and research design practice through residential fieldwork in physical geography.
The field trip will be embedded within the regular semester and will be preceded by preparatory classes to provide concepts, theories and specific techniques relevant to the fieldwork location. It will be followed by a period of post fieldwork analysis and presentation of project outcomes.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: Nil
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-7-2.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4220
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.50 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 courses.
Description:
The course provides an opportunity for students to gain hands-on skills and research design practice through residential fieldwork in physical geography.
The field trip will be embedded within the regular semester and will be preceded by preparatory classes to provide concepts, theories and specific techniques relevant to the fieldwork location. It will be followed by a period of post fieldwork analysis and presentation of project outcomes.
C.A.: 125%; Duration of examination: Nil
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4221HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES XDP students:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
The course provides an opportunity for students to gain hands-on skills and research design practice through residential fieldwork in human geography.
The field trip will be embedded within the regular semester and will be preceded by preparatory classes to provide concepts, theories and specific techniques relevant to the fieldwork location. It will be followed by a period of post fieldwork analysis and presentation of project outcomes.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: Nil
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-7-2.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4221
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.50 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
The course provides an opportunity for students to gain hands-on skills and research design practice through residential fieldwork in human geography.
The field trip will be embedded within the regular semester and will be preceded by preparatory classes to provide concepts, theories and specific techniques relevant to the fieldwork location. It will be followed by a period of post fieldwork analysis and presentation of project outcomes.
C.A.: 125%; Duration of examination: Nil
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4222HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.50 or be on the Honours track.
- BES XDP students:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
This course addresses the interactions between surface processes and landforms and landscapes. These interactions lead to physical, chemical and biological changes, which in turn create the current landscapes and the geological record of past landscapes.
This focus is core to both physical geographical and geological communities, and also the wider geosciences.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 5
Workload: 3-0-2-4-3.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4222
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.50 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
This course addresses the interactions between surface processes and landforms and landscapes. These interactions lead to physical, chemical and biological changes, which in turn create the current landscapes and the geological record of past landscapes.
This focus is core to both physical geographical and geological communities, and also the wider geosciences.
C.A.: 125%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4223HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE.
- BES XDP students :
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
Aimed at developing a critical perspective on the nature and practice of modern geography, the course situates the development of geography within the wider context of philosophical and social change.
It examines the basic nature of the discipline by considering some of the ways in which the relationship between the society and space has been theorised within geography.
It traces the history of the discipline and evaluates the different paradigms, approaches and methodological considerations which have influenced human geography including the impact of positivism, humanism, Marxism, feminism, realism and postmodernism, before examining the unity diversity of physical and human geographies through key concepts such as space, place, environment and landscape.
C.A.: 60%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-4-5.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4223
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.50 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
Aimed at developing a critical perspective on the nature and practice of modern geography, the course situates the development of geography within the wider context of philosophical and social change.
It examines the basic nature of the discipline by considering some of the ways in which the relationship between the society and space has been theorised within geography.
It traces the history of the discipline and evaluates the different paradigms, approaches and methodological considerations which have influenced human geography including the impact of positivism, humanism, Marxism, feminism, realism and postmodernism, before examining the unity diversity of physical and human geographies through key concepts such as space, place, environment and landscape.
C.A.: 85%; Exam: 40% ;2 hrs
Total: 125%
Units: 4
Workload: 0-0-0-5-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4224HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
This course explores the subfield of biogeography, dedicated to understanding and addressing the profound impacts of human activities on global biodiversity. Integrating principles from ecology, geography and conservation science, students will explore species' and ecosystems' spatial distribution, abundance and conservation status in Southeast Asia. Emphasis is placed on identifying biodiversity hotspots, assessing threats and devising conservation strategies. Students will explore risks of extinction due to habitat destruction, climate change and invasive species. Through hands-on experiences, including fieldtrips, expert guest lectures and group conservation projects, students will acquire practical skills and apply theoretical insights to tackle pressing ecological challenges.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: NA
Units: 5
Workload: 0-0-1-5.5-6
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4224
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.50 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
This course explores the subfield of biogeography, dedicated to understanding and addressing the profound impacts of human activities on global diversity. Integrating principles from ecology, geography and conservation science, students will explore species' and ecosystems' spatial distribution, abundance and conservation status in Southeast Asia. Emphasis is placed on identifying biodiversity hotspots, assessing threats and devising conservation strategies. Students will explore risks of extinction due to habitat destruction, climate change and invasive species. Through hands-on experiences, including fieldtrips, expert guest lectures and group conservation projects, students will acquire practical skills and apply theoretical insights to tackle pressing ecological challenges.
C.A.: 125%; Duration of examination: NA
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4225HM
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE.
Description:
This course will examine the theories and concepts of childhood and youth-hood from critical geography and development studies perspectives. The course will particularly focus on approaches and material from the sub-discipline of children’s and young people’s geographies. It will explore material and representational geographies of children and young people from a global perspective. Different strands of examination may include key issues such as: children’s and young people’s social and spatial identities; the complexities of growing up global; young people and social and cultural development; mediated representations of younger people; youthful politics and activism; contexts of education, employment and aspirations.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: Nil
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-4.5-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4225
Cohort 2019 and before:
- Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- Global Studies students:
Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE or 28 Units in GL/GL-recognised non-language courses, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Cohort 2020 :
- Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Description:
This course will examine the theories and concepts of childhood and youth-hood from critical geography and development studies perspectives. The course will particularly focus on approaches and material from the sub-discipline of children’s and young people’s geographies. It will explore material and representational geographies of children and young people from a global perspective. Different strands of examination may include key issues such as: children’s and young people’s social and spatial identities; the complexities of growing up global; young people and social and cultural development; mediated representations of younger people; youthful politics and activism; contexts of education, employment and aspirations.
C.A.: 125%; Duration of examination: Nil
Units: 4
Workload: 0-0-0-2-3-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4226HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards: Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE.
Description:
This course offers students theoretical and applied understandings of mobilities as sites of social life. Drawing from the ‘new’ mobilities paradigm, this course demonstrates how movement is an activity replete with meaning, purpose and politics. To exemplify this point, this course takes transport and communications as a lens of analysis, and interrogates different manifestations of mobilities across historical and contemporary contexts. Three aspects will be emphasized: the socialities and experiences of transport spaces; the infrastructures of circulation; and the digitalization of modern-urban life. The course aims to help students appreciate what is at stake when people and things move.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: Nil
Units: 5
Workload: 0-0-0-4-3-5.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4226
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2019 and before:
- Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- Global Studies students:
Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE or 28 Units in GL/GL-recognised non-language modules, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Cohort 2020 :
- Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Description:
This course offers students theoretical and applied understandings of mobilities as sites of social life. Drawing from the ‘new’ mobilities paradigm, this course demonstrates how movement is an activity replete with meaning, purpose and politics. To exemplify this point, this course takes transport and communications as a lens of analysis, and interrogates different manifestations of mobilities across historical and contemporary contexts. Three aspects will be emphasized: the socialities and experiences of transport spaces; the infrastructures of circulation; and the digitalization of modern-urban life. The course aims to help students appreciate what is at stake when people and things move.
C.A.: 125%; Exam: Nil
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4227HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.50 or be on the Honours track.
- BES XDP students:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Descriptions:
This course investigates geographical aspects of recent and future climate change, especially at regional and local spatial scales.
The following major topics will be introduced, with greater focus in places depending on the specialisation of the lecturer(s).
1. The physical science of climate change, which include observational and modelling techniques and evidence;
2. Sectorial and multi-scale impacts on natural and human systems, which include vulnerability frameworks, and communicating aspects of climate change;
3. Adaptation, mitigation measures and sustainable development, which include technological developments, risk and decision making under uncertainty, governmental responses and socio-economic assessments of climate change mitigation.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: Nil
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-4.5-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4227
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.50 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Descriptions:
This course investigates geographical aspects of recent and future climate change, especially at regional and local spatial scales.
The following major topics will be introduced, with greater focus in places depending on the specialisation of the lecturer(s).
1. The physical science of climate change, which include observational and modelling techniques and evidence;
2. Sectorial and multi-scale impacts on natural and human systems, which include vulnerability frameworks, and communicating aspects of climate change;
3. Adaptation, mitigation measures and sustainable development, which include technological developments, risk and decision making under uncertainty, governmental responses and socio-economic assessments of climate change mitigation.
C.A.: 125%; Duration of examination: Nil
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4228HM, GE3206
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- GE3206
Description:
This course explores the co-constitutive relationship between gender and the city. Drawing from theoretical arguments made by geographers on feminist interventions into the urban, the module provides a gendered re-orientation of critical issues for the city such as transport, housing, uneven development, regeneration and social exclusion.
Students will draw from their understanding of key spatial concepts covered in GE3206 Gender, Space and Place to further develop their understanding of the socio-spatial dialectic and the politics that underpin the social (re)production of built environments and their impact on gendered representations and (re)distribution in cities.
C.A.: 70%; Duration of examination: 2hrs
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-4.5-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4228, GE3206
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2019 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- GE3206
Cohort 2020:
- Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- GE3206
Description:
This course explores the co-constitutive relationship between gender and the city. Drawing from theoretical arguments made by geographers on feminist interventions into the urban, the module provides a gendered re-orientation of critical issues for the city such as transport, housing, uneven development, regeneration and social exclusion.
Students will draw from their understanding of key spatial concepts covered in GE3206 Gender, Space and Place to further develop their understanding of the socio-spatial dialectic and the politics that underpin the social (re)production of built environments and their impact on gendered representations and (re)distribution in cities.
C.A.: 95%; Exam: 30% ; 2hrs
Total: 125%
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4230HM
Pre-requiste(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE.
Description:
This course focuses on the political economy and contemporary transformation of Greater China (broadly defined to include the mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau SARs, Taiwan and overseas Chinese communities in Asia) in the contemporary period. By adopting an institutional analysis from new economic geographies, it examines the ways in which state formation (and transformation), business systems, organisational structures and socio-cultural factors account for the geographical processes and outcomes of economic and political changes at various spatial scales. Issues covered include economic development and reforms, the financial and banking system, national business systems, financial crises, technology, foreign direct investment and international trade, government-business relations, mobility and urbanisation, and geopolitics.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: NA
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-3.5-6
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4230
Pre-requiste(s):
Cohort 2019 and before:
- Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- Global Studies students:
Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE or 28 Units in GL/GL-recognised non-language courses, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Cohort 2020 :
- Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Description:
This course focuses on the political economy and contemporary transformation of Greater China (broadly defined to include the mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau SARs, Taiwan and overseas Chinese communities in Asia) in the contemporary period. By adopting an institutional analysis from new economic geographies, it examines the ways in which state formation (and transformation), business systems, organisational structures and socio-cultural factors account for the geographical processes and outcomes of economic and political changes at various spatial scales. Issues covered include economic development and reforms, the financial and banking system, national business systems, financial crises, technology, foreign direct investment and international trade, government-business relations, mobility and urbanisation, and geopolitics.
C.A.: 125%; Duration of examination: NA
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4231HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE.
Description:
This course examines the dynamics of urban and regional development from the perspectives of economic and political geography. It is primarily concerned with contemporary issues such as urban assemblages and clusters, regional networks and institutions, and their relationships with the evolving global political economy. Uneven geographical development is both underpinned by, and contributes to, these urban and regional development dynamics around the world. The course will draw upon a wide variety of examples from across Asia.
C.A.: 70%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Total: 100%
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-3.5-6
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4231
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Description:
This course examines the dynamics of urban and regional development from the perspectives of economic and political geography. It is primarily concerned with contemporary issues such as urban assemblages and clusters, regional networks and institutions, and their relationships with the evolving global political economy. Uneven geographical development is both underpinned by, and contributes to, these urban and regional development dynamics around the world. The course will draw upon a wide variety of examples from across Asia.
C.A.: 95%; Exam: 30% ; 2 hrs
Total: 125%
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4232HM
Prerequisites:
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE. Must read and passed GE1101E.
- BES XDP students:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
This course explores the relationships between politics (broadly defined) and the environment at a global level.
Global political ecologies will examine environmental issues that have explicit global impact. It is also interested in issues that have comparatively less global impact but are nonetheless considered “global” because they are endemic in many places around the world.
Drawing on the theoretical underpinnings of political ecology and case studies around the world, this course will explore themes such as: environmental ideology and discourse; politics and livelihoods; energy and natural resource management; production and consumption of food, nature conservation and climate change.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-3.5-6
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4232
Prerequisites:
Cohort 2020 :
- Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours Track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS modules before they can read any level-4000 GE modules. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE modules before they can read any level-4000 GE modules. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE modules.
Description:
This course explores the relationships between politics (broadly defined) and the environment at a global level.
Global political ecologies will examine environmental issues that have explicit global impact. It is also interested in issues that have comparatively less global impact but are nonetheless considered “global” because they are endemic in many places around the world.
Drawing on the theoretical underpinnings of political ecology and case studies around the world, this course will explore themes such as: environmental ideology and discourse; politics and livelihoods; energy and natural resource management; production and consumption of food, nature conservation and climate change.
C.A.: 125%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): GE4233HM
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2011 and before: Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.50 or be on the Honours track.
Cohort 2012 onwards: Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE.
- BES XDP students :
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Descriptions:
Through this course, students engage with key contemporary global/regional events, issues and changes through geographical lenses. The events, issues and changes selected for geographical analysis will vary each year so the course remains contemporary. Students will draw upon their accumulated geographical knowledge to research, analyse and interpret the selected events.
Working in self-defined sub-disciplinary groups (climate change geography, geomorphology, social, economic, political geography, etc) students will be assigned research and evaluation tasks to bring their particular critical perspective (connected with academic debates) to a selected event, for example, the 2010 earthquake in Haiti or food insecurities.
C.A.: 100%
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-3-6.5
Preclusion(s): GE4233
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2019 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations :
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. - Global Studies :
Completed at least 80 Units, including 28 Units in GL/GL-recognised non-language courses, with a minimum CAP of 3.20 or be on the Honours track
Cohort 2020:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations -
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Descriptions:
Through this course, students engage with key contemporary global/regional events, issues and changes through geographical lenses. The events, issues and changes selected for geographical analysis will vary each year so the course remains contemporary. Students will draw upon their accumulated geographical knowledge to research, analyse and interpret the selected events.
Working in self-defined sub-disciplinary groups (climate change geography, geomorphology, social, economic, political geography, etc) students will be assigned research and evaluation tasks to bring their particular critical perspective (connected with academic debates) to a selected event, for example, the 2010 earthquake in Haiti or food insecurities.
C.A.: 125%
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4234HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in Major, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES XDP students:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
The tropics are presently the hotspots of global environmental changes. This course aims to examine the causes and consequences of key environmental changes in the tropics. Environmental change will be mainly looked at from two different perspectives:
1) climate change (including rising temperature, more variable precipitation and elevated CO2) and
2) anthropogenic change (including deforestation, agriculture and urbanization).
Particular focus will be given to recent literatures on climate change, tropical ecosystem dynamics and land use and land cover change. Current high rates of changes in these processes, and their nature, are placed within a contemporary context with a particular focus on Asia.
C.A.: 100%
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-2.5-7
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4234
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
The tropics are presently the hotspots of global environmental changes. This course aims to examine the causes and consequences of key environmental changes in the tropics. Environmental change will be mainly looked at from two different perspectives:
1) climate change (including rising temperature, more variable precipitation and elevated CO2) and
2) anthropogenic change (including deforestation, agriculture and urbanization).
Particular focus will be given to recent literatures on climate change, tropical ecosystem dynamics and land use and land cover change. Current high rates of changes in these processes, and their nature, are placed within a contemporary context with a particular focus on Asia.
C.A.: 125%
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4235HM, GE3227
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE.
- BES XDP students:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Descriptions:
Modifications made by humans to the surface of the Earth during urbanization alter just about every element of climate and weather in the atmosphere above the city. This course examines how these changes affect environmental variables such as solar radiation, surface and air temperature, evaporation, storage of heat, wind climates, emissions of pollutants and greenhouse gases and the wider implications for air quality and environmental change. Students are expected to read widely and conduct an empirical research project. This course is suited for students reading geography, climatology, ecology, engineering and planning.
C.A.: 100% Exam: 0 hrs
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-2.5-7
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4235, GE3227
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.50 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Descriptions:
Modifications made by humans to the surface of the Earth during urbanization alter just about every element of climate and weather in the atmosphere above the city. This course examines how these changes affect environmental variables such as solar radiation, surface and air temperature, evaporation, storage of heat, wind climates, emissions of pollutants and greenhouse gases and the wider implications for air quality and environmental change. Students are expected to read widely and conduct an empirical research project. This course is suited for students reading geography, climatology, ecology, engineering and planning.
C.A.: 125%
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): GE3237, GE4236HM
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE. Must have read and passed GE1101E.
- BES XDP students:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
This course explores conceptual and empirical approaches to the geographies of migration, investigating diverse spaces, processes and mobilities associated with being and becoming a migrant. Tracing migration stories through states of transition, we will explore the uncertain existence of the migrant across figures (such as the stranger, the student, the refugee) and spaces (such as the border, the city and the home). These ideas will be unfolded alongside contemporary examples of internal, transnational and international migration, and diverse topics such as regulatory regimes, gender, labour, diversity, citizenship, development and class.
C.A.: 100%
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-2.5-7
Preclusion(s): GE3237, GE4236
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in Major, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
This course explores conceptual and empirical approaches to the geographies of migration, investigating diverse spaces, processes and mobilities associated with being and becoming a migrant. Tracing migration stories through states of transition, we will explore the uncertain existence of the migrant across figures (such as the stranger, the student, the refugee) and spaces (such as the border, the city and the home). These ideas will be unfolded alongside contemporary examples of internal, transnational and international migration, and diverse topics such as regulatory regimes, gender, labour, diversity, citizenship, development and class.
C.A.: 125%
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): GE3246, GE4237HM
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in Major, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES XDP students:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
Environmental pollution, the introduction of pollutants to the environment through human activity in amounts that can have adverse effects on biota, including humans, and ecosystem services, has in recent years become both more widespread and, in places, more acute. The fundamental principles of environmental pollution are used as a basis for an in-depth examination of the production and release of pollutants and their eventual pollution of the environment, and how pollution processes and effects have varied over time. Students will also consider how problems of environmental pollution can best be addressed - both in terms of their sources and their effects.
C.A.: 100%
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-2.5-7
Preclusion(s): GE3246, GE4237
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in Major, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
Environmental pollution, the introduction of pollutants to the environment through human activity in amounts that can have adverse effects on biota, including humans, and ecosystem services, has in recent years become both more widespread and, in places, more acute. The fundamental principles of environmental pollution are used as a basis for an in-depth examination of the production and release of pollutants and their eventual pollution of the environment, and how pollution processes and effects have varied over time. Students will also consider how problems of environmental pollution can best be addressed - both in terms of their sources and their effects.
C.A.: 125%
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-3-4
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4238HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE Must have read and passed GE1101E.
Description:
This course will examine the transformation of the modern Middle East. The focus will be on the evolution of the state systemin the region, political geographies and their relationship to nations, empire, war and peace. A key analytical lens will be urban geographies. Although not a primary focus, the course will also consider the resource geographies of the region and their intersection with social, urban, economic and political geographies. The course also affords an opportunity to review the status of and approaches to area studies, the complexities of defining macro-regions, and the evolving relationship between geography and area studies.
C.A.: 60% Exam: 40%
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-4.5-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4238
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
Description:
This course will examine the transformation of the modern Middle East. The focus will be on the evolution of the state systemin the region, political geographies and their relationship to nations, empire, war and peace. A key analytical lens will be urban geographies. Although not a primary focus, the course will also consider the resource geographies of the region and their intersection with social, urban, economic and political geographies. The course also affords an opportunity to review the status of and approaches to area studies, the complexities of defining macro-regions, and the evolving relationship between geography and area studies.
C.A.: 85% Exam: 40%
Total: 125%
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-3-4
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4239HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE. Must have read and passed GE1101E.
- BES XDP students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 courses.
Description:
Located at the land-ocean interface, coastal landforms are among the most dynamic landscapes on earth and provide the substrate for 80% of the world’s population. This course examines the diversity and evolution of different coastal landforms, and the rates and magnitude of coastal change. Focusing on tropical coastal landforms, the course uses morphodynamics as an integrating framework to examine process drivers and morphological feedbacks that modulate coastal change across a range of temporal and spatial scales. Knowledge and skills gained in the course provide the science basis that contributes to management of the coast.
C.A.: 100% Exam: 0%
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-5.5-4
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4239
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
Located at the land-ocean interface, coastal landforms are among the most dynamic landscapes on earth and provide the substrate for 80% of the world’s population. This course examines the diversity and evolution of different coastal landforms, and the rates and magnitude of coastal change. Focusing on tropical coastal landforms, the course uses morphodynamics as an integrating framework to examine process drivers and morphological feedbacks that modulate coastal change across a range of temporal and spatial scales. Knowledge and skills gained in the course provide the science basis that contributes to management of the coast.
C.A.: 125% Exam: 0%
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-4-3
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4240HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE. Must have read and passed GE1101E.
- BES XDP students:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses.
Description:
A rational decision is made through a systematic approach, method and practice of decision-making processes. Spatial decision making is the process of generating, evaluating alternatives and choosing the best or optimal course of action to solve a spatial decision problem. The tools, techniques, models and procedures relevant to spatial decision making are integrated to support the process of spatial decision making. This course explores the paradigms, models, tools, techniques and processes for spatial decision-making and schema of spatial decision support systems and delves into the uncertainty in spatial decision-making process and framework of collaborative and online spatial decision support systems.
C.A.: 100% Exam: 0%
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-4-5.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4240
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses
Description:
A rational decision is made through a systematic approach, method and practice of decision-making processes. Spatial decision making is the process of generating, evaluating alternatives and choosing the best or optimal course of action to solve a spatial decision problem. The tools, techniques, models and procedures relevant to spatial decision making are integrated to support the process of spatial decision making. This course explores the paradigms, models, tools, techniques and processes for spatial decision-making and schema of spatial decision support systems and delves into the uncertainty in spatial decision-making process and framework of collaborative and online spatial decision support systems.
C.A.: 125% Exam: 0%
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-3-4
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4241HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE. Must have read and passed GE1101E.
- BES XDP students:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
This course covers the principles and methods of using geospatial technologies to address health issues, focusing on human-health-environment relationship. Geospatial concepts and data for health and disease ecology are explained. Methods and considerations are introduced with case studies for mapping population and health data, quantifying spatial patterns and detecting spatial clusters in health events, measuring exposure to risk factors, and evaluating spatial accessibility to health care. The combination of seminar discussion and practical work will provide students the opportunities to gain a thorough understanding of the roles of the environmental factors, social-economic conditions, and behavioural responses on health outcomes.
C.A.: 100% Exam: 0%
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-4.5-5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4241
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2020 and before:
- Completed 80 Units, including 28 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20 or be on the Honours track.
- BES students from both specialisations:
Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE courses. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
Description:
This course covers the principles and methods of using geospatial technologies to address health issues, focusing on human-health-environment relationship. Geospatial concepts and data for health and disease ecology are explained. Methods and considerations are introduced with case studies for mapping population and health data, quantifying spatial patterns and detecting spatial clusters in health events, measuring exposure to risk factors, and evaluating spatial accessibility to health care. The combination of seminar discussion and practical work will provide students the opportunities to gain a thorough understanding of the roles of the environmental factors, social-economic conditions, and behavioural responses on health outcomes.
C.A.: 125% Exam: 0%
Units: 8
Workload: 0-0-0-0-20
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4660, GE4660HM, GE4401HM
Pre-requisite(s): For GE majors/BES NVG students
Cohort 2021 onwards:
To read and pass GE3240. Completed 110 Units including 40 Units of GE major requirements and SJAP of 4.00 and a GPA of 3.50. Students may seek a waiver of the SJAP pre-requisite from the Department if they have a minimum GPA of 4.25 after completing 110 Units.
Cohort 2021: (BES XDP students).
To read and pass GE3240. Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
The Honours Thesis may be on either:
- an aspect of the geography of Singapore or Malaysia; or
- any other approved geography topic.
Honours students in Geography are required to prepare an Honours thesis of 8,000 - 10,000 words. The thesis should feature original research based on primary and secondary sources.
The subject for the thesis is to be chosen in consultation with the faculty of the Department.
More information can be found in the Honours Programme page.
Units: 15
Workload: 0-0-0-0-37.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4401, GE4660, GE4660HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2012 and before:
To read and pass GE3240. Completed 110 Units including 60 Units of GE requirements and GPA of 3.50.
Cohort 2013-2015:
To read and pass GE3240. Completed 110 Units including 60 MCs of GE requirements with a minimum SJAP of 4.00 and GPA of 3.50. Students may seek a waiver of the SJAP pre-requisite from the department if they have a minimum GPA of 4.25 after completing 110 Units.
Cohort 2012 to 2020:
To read and pass GE3240. Completed 110 Units including 44 Units of GE requirements with a minimum SJAP of 4.00 and GPA of 3.50. Students may seek a waiver of the SJAP pre-requisite from the department if they have a minimum GPA of 4.25 after completing 110 Units.
Cohort 2012 to 2020 (BES NVG students):
To read and pass GE3240. Completed 80 Units of NUS courses before they can read any level-4000 GE courses. Do not need to complete 28 Units of GE modules before they can read any level-4000 GE modules. Do not need a minimum GPA of 3.20 before they can read any level-4000 GE courses.
The Honours Thesis may be on either:
- an aspect of the geography of Singapore or Malaysia; or
- any other approved geography topic.
Honours students in Geography are required to prepare an Honours thesis of 10,000 to 12,000 words. The thesis should feature original research based on primary and secondary sources.
The subject for the thesis is to be chosen in consultation with the faculty of the Department.
More information can be found in the Honours Programme page.
Units: 4
Workload: 0-0-0-0-10
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4660HM, GE4401, GE4401HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2021 onwards:
To be offered subject to the agreement of the Supervisor and Department. Completed 100 Units, including 40 Units in GE with a minimum GPA of 3.20.
The Independent Study (Module) is designed to enable the student to explore an approved topic within the discipline in depth.
The student should approach a lecturer to work out an agreed topic, readings, and assignments for the course. A formal, written agreement is to be drawn up, giving a clear account of the topic, programme of study, assignments, evaluation, and other pertinent details.
Head's and/or Honours Coordinator's approval of the written agreement is required. Regular meetings and reports are expected.
Evaluation is based on 100% Continuous Assessment and must be worked out between the student and the lecturer prior to seeking departmental approval.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: Nil
Units: 5
Workload: 0-0-0-0-12.5
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): GE4660, GE4401, GE4401HM
Pre-requisite(s):
Cohort 2012-2015:
Completed 100 Units, including 60 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20.
Cohort 2016 onwards:
Completed 100 Units, including 44 Units in GE, with a minimum GPA of 3.20.
The Independent Study (Module) is designed to enable the student to explore an approved topic within the discipline in depth.
The student should approach a lecturer to work out an agreed topic, readings, and assignments for the course. A formal, written agreement is to be drawn up, giving a clear account of the topic, programme of study, assignments, evaluation, and other pertinent details.
Head's and/or Honours Coordinator's approval of the written agreement is required. Regular meetings and reports are expected.
Evaluation is based on 100% Continuous Assessment and must be worked out between the student and the lecturer prior to seeking departmental approval.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: Nil