Course Overview
Economic Geography is the study of how elements within the economy are spatially arranged, as well as the ways that space, place and spatial scales shape economic activities in different parts of the world.
Through a series of readings, discussions, and research assignments, this course examines the distribution of economic activities on the earth's surface; market resource and transportation factors in location theory, and the role of state, market and civil society's agents in management of the economy.
Students are further introduced to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) through content-focused lab assignments, though no previous experience with GIS is required for this course.
Class Details
- Course: GEOG 30763-045
- Semester: Spring 2026
- Meeting Times: Tu/Th 12:30-1:50 PM
- Location: Palko 227
- Credits: 3 (Writing Emphasis)
Instructor
- Dr. Sean M. Crotty
- Office: SCHAR 2004C
- Virtual Office Hours: Wed 12:30-1:30 PM
- Email: sean.crotty@tcu.edu
Required Materials
- Textbook: Coe, Kelly and Yeung, Economic Geography: A Contemporary Introduction, 3rd edition
- Access to computer with Microsoft Office
- ArcGIS Pro (trial provided)
- Webcam or smartphone camera
Quick Access
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge & Understanding
- Understand characteristics of the capitalist economy and its relations to unevenness through a geographic lens
- Analyze economic processes within global and local environmental, socio-cultural, and political contexts
- Identify factors influencing local economies and their interaction with regional, national, and global influences
- Apply theories to understand local impacts of industrial changes and economic development
Skills Development
- Think and write critically about economic processes
- Analyze economic activity from a geographic perspective
- Discuss causes of uneven economic development at multiple scales
- Use ArcGIS software to analyze spatial dimensions of economic activity
- Conduct qualitative research including participant observation
- Design and complete independent research projects
Course Requirements
Weekly Engagement Activities
150 pointsVideo reflection posts, in-class discussions, and concept application exercises that connect course material to your own experiences and geographic location.
View DetailsPlace-Based Analysis Storymaps
300 points (3 × 100)Create ArcGIS StoryMaps combining spatial analysis with narrative storytelling through local fieldwork, supply chain investigation, and consumer geography analysis.
View AssignmentsGIS Lab Assignments
200 points (4 × 50)Hands-on spatial analysis using ArcGIS Pro examining labor markets, industrial specialization, locational analysis, and business analytics.
View LabsCollaborative Research Project
350 pointsMulti-stage, peer-reviewed group project conducting original research on an economic geography topic, culminating in a StoryMap and research paper.
View ProjectGrading Breakdown
Total: 1000 points
Course Topics
This course covers 15 major topics in economic geography. Each chapter includes video lectures, slides, readings, and discussion activities.
Introduction to Economic Geography
Economic Discourse & Theory
Dynamics of Capitalism
Networks & Connectivity
Transnational Corporations
Labor Geography
Consumer Geography
Geography of Global Finance
The State & Economic Development
International Institutions
Environment & Economy
Clusters & Creative Class
Regional Development
Urban Economic Geography
Future of Economic Geography
Important Information
Student Resources & Policies
Please review the complete syllabus for detailed information on:
- Attendance and participation policies
- Academic integrity and AI usage guidelines
- Student access and accommodation services
- TCU student support resources
Final Project Due Date
Thursday, May 7th, 2026 at 11:00 AM
Final research project is due by the start of our assigned final exam time. Plan accordingly and reach out with questions early!