Geography is a discipline transcending the boundaries of the natural and social sciences.  Central to the development of geographical understanding is the ability to appreciate how physical and human forces interact to give identity to places and to create recognisable spatial patterns.  The study of Geography allows a clear understanding of causal relationships at different geographical scales – local, regional and global.  It facilitates an understanding of many of the central issues emerging from human exploitation of natural resources.

A course in CAPE Geography must cultivate in students an appreciation of the complexity and interrelatedness of the environment in the Caribbean and the vider world.  Specifically, the course in CAPE Geography must respond to the needs of individuals and society.  For individuals, it must respond by deepening their interest in geographical knowledge and skills and enabling them to pursue higher education goals.  It must also equip individuals for the increasing number of work situations in which integrative and graphical skills are important.  For the society, it must respond by creating an awareness and understanding of the inter-relatedness of people and the environment, the need for the sustainable use of environmental resources and the consequences of misuse.

The syllabus aims to:

• Develop an understanding of the location and distribution of geographic phenomena;
• Develop an understanding of the nature of Physical and Human Geography and their interactions;
• Explain the processes at work in Physical and Human Geography;
• Develop and understanding of the environmental consequences of human action;
• Develop an appreciation of the current social and economic problems in their geographical setting;
• Encourage an appreciation of the dynamic nature of Geography;
• Help in the understanding and application of spatial models and concepts to the study of geography;
• Develop an understanding of the range of techniques, the acquisition of practical skills, and an appreciation of information technology that enhance geographical knowledge;
• Create awareness of the variety of Caribbean environment through field activities;
• Promote knowledge and understanding of world geography;
• Develop and understanding of the place of the Caribbean in the wider world;
• Encourage a critical and reflective approach to the study of Geography.

The syllabus is arranged into two Units.  Each Unit consists of three Modules, each Module requiring 50 contact hours.

Unit 1: Population Geography, Geomorphic Processes and Hazards

• Module 1: Population and Settlement
• Module 2:  Hydrological, Fluvial, Coastal and Limestone Environments
• Module 3: Natural Events and Hazards

Unit 2: Climate, Economic Activity and Caribbean Development

• Module 1: Climate, Vegetation and Soils
• Module 2: Economic Activity
• Module 3: Development and Disparity in the Caribbean