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Darrel Hess
Professor Emeritus of Geography
Earth Sciences Department
City College of San Francisco
After 31 years teaching at City College of San Francisco, I retired at the end of the Spring 2021 semester. I may be contacted through my City College email (dhess@ccsf.edu). In this website I've retained information about the courses I have taught.
Teaching Schedule -- No current teaching schedule
My Courses:
GEOG 1 is an introduction to Earth’s physical environment. The course focuses on processes and patterns of weather and climate, the development of landforms, and map interpretation. Special attention is given to the physical geography and natural hazards of the Bay Area and California. This course has no prerequisites.
GEOG 1L--Physical Geography Laboratory
GEOG 1L is an introductory laboratory course in Physical Geography. GEOG 1L complements the GEOG 1 lecture course in the study of weather and climate, tectonic processes, and the development of landforms. The emphasis of the laboratory work is on the interpretation of weather maps, climatic data, aerial photographs and topographic maps. Two afternoon field trips are also required. Course prerequisite: GEOG 1, which may be taken concurrently.
GEOG 4 is an introduction to human geography. Through the use of basic themes and concepts in geography, we explore the imprint of different cultures on the human landscape. Topics include the dynamics of population growth, patterns of migration, the historical development and spread of religion and language, differing systems of agriculture, uneven economic development, and the legacy of colonialism. Special attention is given to contemporary issues such as the globalization of culture and the economy, and resurgent nationalism within countries. This course has no prerequisites.
GEOG 7 is an introduction to the factors shaping the economic and urban landscapes of the world. Through the use of case studies and theoretical models, we investigate the historical patterns and processes of urbanization, industrialization, and the interlinked global economy. Special attention is given to contemporary issues such as globalization, the changing patterns of manufacturing in the United States, and the increasing importance of multinational corporations. This course has no prerequisites.
Geography Major at City College of San Francisco:
Students wishing to earn the Associate in Arts in Geography for Transfer degree (AA-T in Geography) must complete 60 CSU transferable units that include the full completion of IGETC or the CSU general education curriculum and at least 19 units of coursework in the geography major. Link to AA-T Degree in Geography requirements.
About Me:
Link to my Biography Page.
About Geography:
To learn more about the discipline of geography, visit the Website of the American Association of Geographers (AAG)--the largest organization of professional and academic geographers in the country (link to AAG Website). The AAG provides scholarships for community college students transferring to four-year colleges and universities (link to the AAG Hess Community College Scholarship), as well as travel funds for community college students to attend the AAG Annual Meeting (link to AAG Community College Travel Grants). The 2024 AAG Annual Meeting is being held in Honolulu from April 16 to 20 (link to AAG Annual Meeting).