Course Information

Instructor: Ian Fowler

Location: Los Angeles / UCLA

Mode: In-person

Dates: August 11–15, 2025

Tuition: $1200.00

Course Description

This course is designed to provide a general overview of the history of mapping in the western world as well as the use of cartographic resources in modern day teaching and research. Topics will include an introduction to maps (projections, scale, visualization of information), the history of map printing; the evolution of European mapping; the role of maps as cultural and social objects; the wide variety and type of maps produced (nautical charts, city views and plans, topographic, land ownership, celestial charts, etc.); reference materials and cartobibliographies, and the role of museums and libraries as stewards of the content. The class will also explore how antiquarian maps are used by present day researchers, teachers, and students. Course participants will interact with physical examples from archives and special collections, as well as examine maps in the larger historical context through a class visit to a highly regarded cultural institution. This class will also explore and critically examine digital cartographic repositories from around the world and the role they can play in education and research."