Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - GEOG 221 D100

Economic Worlds (3)

Class Number: 1299

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 7, 2026: Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    GEOG 100.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

The fundamentals of economics geography, the study of the forces that shape the arrangement of economic activity in the real world. Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of economic geography: the study of how and why economic activity is distributed unevenly across space. Rather than treating markets, trade, and production as abstract forces, the course examines how economic processes are shaped by place, history, politics, and social relations, and in turn how those processes reshape the landscapes and communities in which they unfold. Students will engage with a range of articles, book chapters, and case studies exploring topics such as globalization, labour markets, urban and regional development, and the changing geography of industry and capital. Building on the foundation established in GEOG 100, students will develop skills in critical reading, discussion, and analytical writing as they apply geographic concepts to real-world economic questions.

Grading

  • Attendance and Participation: 20%
  • Assignment One: 20%
  • Assignment Two: 20%
  • Final Report: 40%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

There are no required textbooks for this course, which draws on articles, book chapters, and other texts. A complete list of readings will be provided in the full syllabus and through Canvas.


Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.