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 offered:
Semester 1 - AY2023/24
DR GRETCHEN COFFMAN
DR MENUSHA DE SILVA
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-1-3-3
Preclusion: GE1101E/GEK1001
Cross-listing: GE1101E/GEK1001
Description:
This course introduces contemporary issues shaping our world and the geographical perspectives needed to understand them.
Starting with ‘how geographers view the world’, the course offers a lens to analyse issues like climate change, urban flooding, human-environment relations, challenges of migration, cultural diffusion, economic integration and so forth.
Each lecture will touch on contemporary scenarios and geographical analyses of issues. Students will also be exposed to field work techniques and strategies of project management in group discussions and project assignments.
The goal is to develop students with strong ‘geographical imaginations’ better able to understand the world and all its complexities.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
DR MUHAMMAD NAWAZ
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 module 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 module 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.: 60%; Exam duration: 2 hrs
DR YAN YINGWEI
Units: 4
Workload: 2-0-2-3-3
Preclusion(s)/Pre-requisites: Nil
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
ASSOC PROFESSOR KAMALINI RAMDAS
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Pre-requisite(s)/ Co-requisite(s)/ Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion(s):
Description:
This course will examine the fundamentals of Social and Cultural Geography. Designed as an introductory platform, its primary aim will be to provide students with the knowledge and skills to undertake more specialised courses in Social and Cultural Geography. The course will provide the historical, conceptual and methodological underpinnings that will enhance students’ understanding of the relationship between culture, space, place and society.
C.A.: 60%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
DR SHAUN TEO
Units: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): GE3203
Pre-requisite(s)/ Cross-listing(s): Nil
Description:
This course provides an introduction to the basic ideas and context of both urban and regional planning. Key planning systems, policy agendas and perspectives are critically assessed. Examples are drawn mainly from rapidly changing regions in Asia. Challenges addressed include infrastructure, land policy, housing, poverty, governance dilemmas and environmental problems. Planning in regions and cities is viewed in light of wider social, political and economic trends as well as the geographical context. Planning is placed into perspective relative to other forces that influence development patterns. The course is aimed at students wanting to understand planning and its place in society.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: 0 hrs
DR HAO TANG
Units: 4
Workload: 2-0-2-4-2
Pre-requisite(s)/Preclusion (s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
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 course 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%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
DR MAX LUPASCU
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
DR DYLAN BRADY
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 module 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
DR VANESSA BANTA
Modular credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Pre-requisite(s)/Cross-listing(s): Nil
Preclusion: GE2224
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
ASSOC PROFESSOR GODFREY YEUNG
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
DR MILES KENNEY-LAZAR
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
DR MUHAMMAD NAWAZ
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 have significant environmental, social, political, and economic impacts. These impacts are multi-scalar, ranging from global climate change to socio-cultural disruption at the local and national scale. This course exposes students to these impacts with detailed case studies. The course also gives students a comprehensive background on the development and use of promising future post-carbon alternative energy sources such as wind, solar, geothermal, tidal, and biofuels. It also discusses how to build the architecture of a post-carbon economy.
C.A.: 70%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
DR GRETCHEN COFFMAN
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 course 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
PROFESSOR DAREK WOJCIK
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
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%;
PROFESSOR HENRY YEUNG
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%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
Total: 100%
PROFESSOR HENRY YEUNG
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-3-9.5
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% ; 2 hrs
Total: 125%
DR MENUSHA DE SILVA
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.
Description:
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 reconceptualised notions of culture (in particular, ‘cultural politics’ and ‘cultural economy’).
The module will appeal to advanced students in Geography and related disciplines interested in interrelationships between culture and space.
C.A.: 100%; Duration of examination: NA
DR MENUSHA DE SILVA
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.
Description:
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 reconceptualised notions of culture (in particular, ‘cultural politics’ and ‘cultural economy’).
The module will appeal to advanced students in Geography and related disciplines interested in interrelationships between culture and space.
C.A.: 125%; Duration of examination: NA
ASSOC PROFESSOR WOON CHIH YUAN
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%; Exam: 50% ; 2 hrs
ASSOC PROFESSOR WOON CHIH YUAN
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%
DR CARL GRUNDY-WARR
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Preclusion: GE4219HM
Cross-listing(s): Nil
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 module 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
DR CARL GRUNDY-WARR
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-3-6.5
Preclusion: GE4219
Cross-listing(s): Nil
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 module 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
DR CARL GRUNDY-WARR
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
DR CARL GRUNDY-WARR
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
PROFESSOR LU XI XI
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: NA
PROFESSOR LU XI XI
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: NA
DR ALLEN XIAO
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
DR ALLEN XIAO
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
ASSOC PROFESSOR LIN WEIQIANG
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
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 a productive site of social life and culture. Drawing perspectives from the 'new' mobilities paradigm, it demonstrates how movement is not a sterile activity or zone, but a space replete with meaning.
To exemplify this point, this course takes transportation as a lens of analysis, and interrogates its socio-cultural organisation and experience.
Three aspects will be emphasised, namely the identities and embodiments latent in transportation; the infrastructures of transit; and the (geo)politics of mobility.
Case studies will be drawn internationally, including Asia.
C.A.: 70%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
ASSOC PROFESSOR LIN WEIQIANG
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-4-5.5
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 a productive site of social life and culture. Drawing perspectives from the 'new' mobilities paradigm, it demonstrates how movement is not a sterile activity or zone, but a space replete with meaning.
To exemplify this point, this course takes transportation as a lens of analysis, and interrogates its socio-cultural organisation and experience.
Three aspects will be emphasised, namely the identities and embodiments latent in transportation; the infrastructures of transit; and the (geo)politics of mobility.
Case studies will be drawn internationally, including Asia.
C.A.: 70%; Duration of examination: 2 hrs
DR NATHAN GREEN
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
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
DR NATHAN GREEN
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-3.5-6
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
DR REMI LUO
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%
DR REMI LUO
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%
PROFESSOR MATTHIAS ROTH
Units: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): GE3227, GE4235HM
Cross-listing(s): Nil
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%
PROFESSOR MATTHIAS ROTH
Units: 5
Workload: 0-3-0-2.5-7
Preclusion(s): GE3227, GE4235
Cross-listing(s): Nil
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%
PROFESSOR BRENDA YEOH
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 focuses on theoretical and applied perspectives on international migration, with particular reference to the Asia-Pacific region. It covers conceptual approaches to the drivers and effects of migration, and examines the relationship between migration and development, as well as between migration and diversity. It includes analyses of migration regulatory regimes and the migration industry, while also giving attention to migrant outcomes and experiences in relation to transnational circuits of skilled and unskilled labour migrants, marriage migration and international student mobilities. The consequences of migration for gender relations, class mobility, family dynamics and citizenship will also be discussed.
C.A.: 100%
PROFESSOR BRENDA YEOH
Units: 5
Workload: 0-0-0-5.5-7
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%
PROFESSOR PAUL KENCH
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%
PROFESSOR PAUL KENCH
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%
All Faculty members
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.
All Faculty members
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.
Description:
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.
All Faculty members
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 course 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 module. 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
All Faculty members
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 course 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 module. 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