Geography BSc (Hons)

Course Content

• Course Details

  This course has been designed to contribute towards achieving the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:

  SDG7: Affordable and Clean Energy and SDG13: Climate Action, SDG11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and SDG15: Life on Land

  Our Geography degree includes a mix of human geography and physical geography modules. Topics may include social and economic inequalities, climate change, migration, sustainable development, weather, water resource management, geographies of sport. There is a choice of modules at Stages 2 and 3.

  Stage 1

  There are six compulsory modules at Stage 1, ensuring students have a solid foundation in key aspects of the subject:

  Introducing Human Geographies. Provides an introduction to key geographical issues such as place, scale and social relations, drawing upon examples from migration, tourism and social geography.

  The Physical Environment. Outlines the principal processes operating at the surface of the Earth.

  A Sustainable Community. Introduces the goals of sustainable development and how they can be addressed at local scales.

  Geohazards. Explores the main causes of and responses to a broad range of natural hazards.

  Geography and Development. Considers social and economic inequalities at regional, national and international scales.

  Geographical Techniques. Introduces methods of data collection and analysis used in geographical research.

  Stage 2

  There are three compulsory modules at Stage 2:

  Geography Field Module. Develops field skills in both human geography and physical geography.

  Issues in Human Geography. Provides insights into contemporary issues within the UK and Europe, with a focus on social inequalities, deprivation, and changing urban spaces.

  Research Methods. Develops skills essential for the presentation, analysis and interpretation of data.

  In addition, you choose three from the following modules:

  • Weather and Climate.
  • Populations and Migrations.
  • Landscape Processes.
  • Biogeography.
  • Transport and Mobility.

  Stage 3

  There are two compulsory modules:

  Geography Dissertation. An opportunity to undertake a personal study of a geographical topic you want to investigate.

  Career Planning and Employability. Develops awareness of jobs you can do with a Geography degree, recruitment processes, and your own subject-specific and transferable skills.

  You choose three of the following modules:

  • Communicating Climate Change.
  • Geographies of Sport.
  • Water Resource Management.
  • Children’s Geographies.
  • Sustainable Development: Land Use and Planning.

  Please note the modules shown here relate to the academic year 21/22. The modules relating to the academic year 22/23 will be available from June 2022.

  • Stage 1
    • Introducing Human Geographies (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO1006

      Status: Compulsory
      TThe purpose of this module is to provide an introduction to a range of issues within human geography, and provide a basis for more specialised modules at Levels 5 and 6. The module familiarises students with the language and history of the subject, and explores key characteristics of geographical research..
    • Geography and Development (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO1010

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the study of the geography of development. Students will gain an understanding of theories of development, identify key social inequalities, and explore a range of case studies. The module provides a grounding in key issues that provide a context to further study on development issues incorporated into modules at Levels 5 and 6.
    • Geographical Techniques 1 (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO1013

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to provide an introduction to a range of data collection and analysis methods used in geographical research. Students undertake two projects, enabling them to learn about, use, and evaluate some key research techniques. The module provides a foundation for research-based tasks at Levels 5 and 6.
    • The Physical Environment (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO1107

      Status: Compulsory
      The Physical Environment provides an introduction to the study of the physical (abiotic) environment, familiarising students with the language of the subject and looking at processes which affect the atmosphere, the solid Earth and the Earth's surface, as well as the ways in which these processes interact to produce environments and landscapes.
    • Geohazards (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO1108

      Status: Compulsory
      This module provides an overview of the main causes of and responses to a broad range of natural hazards, introduces the key principles, concepts and terminology associated with the analysis of hazard and risk from geophysical events and explains the nature of a range of geohazards using recent case studies.
    • A Sustainable Community (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO1110

      Status: Compulsory
      In this module students develop an understanding of sustainable development, its underpinning values and what it could mean to them. Students will explore local and global dimensions of sustainable development through student-led project work, discussion and critical reflection.
  • Stage 2
    • Biogeography (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENV2103

      Status: Designate
      Biogeography combines ecology and geography to help us understand spatial patterns of biodiversity. `It is the study of distributions of organisms, habitats and biomes, both past and present, and of related patterns of variation over the earth in the numbers and kinds of living things' (Brown & Lomolino, 1998).
    • Issues in Human Geography (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO2028

      Status: Compulsory
      This module introduces research about a range of contemporary geographical issues in diverse contexts in the UK and Global North. Issues to be explored may include deprivation, social exclusion and changing urban spaces. The module includes UK-based fieldwork.
    • Transport and Mobility (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO2030

      Status: Designate
      This module outlines the principles of transport geography and examines the important discourses. Students examine some topical issues such as neo-liberalism, globalization, social justice, rising income and demand, environmental degradation, resources issues). Transport is a multidimensional activity with clear importance to historical economic development, social interaction and political governance.
    • Populations and Migrations (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO2032

      Status: Designate
      The purpose of this module is to provide an introduction to population studies and provide a specific focus on the study of migration. The movement of people will be studied and examples of human migration will include local, national and international case studies.
    • Landscape Processes (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO2037

      Status: Designate
      The purpose of this module is to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for the scientific study of processes, landforms, and deposits, an awareness of how the discipline has developed and an understanding of how geomorphological concepts may be applied to assist in the solution of environmental problems.
    • Research Methods (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO2038

      Status: Compulsory
      This module will focus on developing skills essential for the presentation and interpretation of data. It will focus on making sense of data, through statistical analysis and its interpretation, and maps and mapping, including the use and application of Geographical Information Systems (GIS).
    • Geography Field Module (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO2104

      Status: Compulsory
      This module develops field skills by examining aspects of both physical and human geography. The module is taught in a detailed lecture and seminar programme and in a field visit.
    • Weather and Climate (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO2111

      Status: Designate
      Weather and Climate equips the learner with a sound knowledge and understanding of atmospheric processes which are relevant to a broad range of environmental sciences.
  • Stage 3
    • Sustainable Development: Land Use and Planning (20 Credits)
      Module code: ENV3013

      Status: Designate
      This module explores social, economic and environmental issues associated with land use. Ethical consumerism will be linked to contemporary land use. Techniques for the evaluation of landscapes (including GIS) will be introduced and the effectiveness of policies and legislation that aim to facilitate sustainable development will be critically evaluated and discussed.
    • Children's Geographies (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO3007

      Status: Designate
      The purpose of this module is to provide students with an opportunity to critically investigate the geographical worlds of children and young people. Students will explore a range of case studies, review key concepts, and carry out a mini research project.
    • Geographies of Sport (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO3031

      Status: Designate
      The purpose of this module is to explore geographical approaches to studying recreational and professional sport at a range of spatial scales. Drawing on a wide range of contemporary and historical sports case studies this module will explore issues including globalization, migration, the body and global mega-events.
    • Climate (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO3108

      Status: Designate
      Climate change is a complex scientific topic that can affect all aspects of environmental and human systems. It is essential that debate and policy is driven by informed specialists and not by the media or political agenda. In this module we explore all apsetc of the climate change issue.
    • Water Resource Management (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO3124

      Status: Designate
      The purpose of this module is to enhance students? employability through the development of key employability skills. Students participate in career planning activities and reflect on their experiences.
    • Career Planning and Employability (20 Credits)
      Module code: GEO3131

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to enhance students? employability through the development of key employability skills. Students participate in career planning activities and reflect on their experiences.
    • Geography Dissertation (40 Credits)
      Module code: GEO4008

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is for the student to select, plan, undertake, report and evaluate an original piece of geographical research. Through this the student will acquire and develop subject-specific and key skills.

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• Entry Requirements

  Standard entry requirements apply. A typical offer would be BCC at A-Level or DMM at BTEC. We welcome international applicants and applications from students with a range of non-traditional educational or professional qualifications.

  For more more information on how to make an application, please visit our How to Apply page.

  If you are an International student and would like information on making an application, please see our How to Apply page.

  Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) Entry Requirements

  Admission to this foundation programme is normally DEE at A Level or MPP at BTEC. However, we would also like to hear from you if you have professional or industry experience instead, a range of other qualifications or self-developed subject knowledge that relates to the programme you wish to study.

   

  English Language Requirements

  All International and EU students applying for a course with us must meet the following minimum English language requirements:

  • IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands
    for study at undergraduate level

  For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our IELTS page.

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• Fees and Funding

  22/23 Tuition Fees
  

  Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 22/23 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  • • UK Full Time: £9,250
    • UK Part Time: £1,500 per 20 credit module
    • UK Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply
    • International Full Time: £14,000
    • International Integrated Foundation Year: £14,000 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply

  Additional Costs

  This course includes residential and day fieldwork trips within the UK. These opportunities help you to develop your skills and also visit sites that may be restricted for the general public.

  As well as local area visits, there may be opportunities for overseas fieldwork.

  There is no charge for compulsory field visits within the UK, however the optional overseas trip would incur an additional to be confirmed by your tutor.

  21/22 Tuition Fees
  

  Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 21/22 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  • • UK Full Time: £9,250
    • UK Part Time: £1,465 per 20 credit module
    • UK Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply
    • International Full Time: £13,000
    • International Integrated Foundation Year: £13,000 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply

  Additional Costs

  This course includes residential and day fieldwork trips within the UK. These opportunities help you to develop your skills and also visit sites that may be restricted for the general public.

  As well as local area visits, there may be opportunities for overseas fieldwork.

  There is no charge for compulsory field visits within the UK, however the optional overseas trip would incur an additional to be confirmed by your tutor.

  For information on the scholarships available to you, please see our scholarships page.

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• Accreditation

  This programme has been accredited by the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG). Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in geographical knowledge and skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of the world beyond higher education. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

  

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• Integrated Foundation Year (IFY)

  The Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) offers a new and exciting route into studying for a degree, attracting ambitious and driven students who are willing to learn and advance.

  If you have non-standard qualifications or do not quite meet the admissions requirements we can offer you a fantastic opportunity to study a four year programme which includes an Integrated Foundation Year. The Integrated Foundation Year will help you develop the theoretical/practical and academic skills you need, in order to successfully progress to the full award.

  Featuring a reduced tuition fee in the first year, our four-year courses will enable you to successfully follow the degree pathway of your choice while gaining essential study skills. The foundation year of your chosen degree will be studied on a full-time basis and is aimed at supporting the transition to higher education. Years two, three and four are then studied as a standard degree programme.

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• GeoNight 2022

  The Geography department are taking part in GeoNight 2022, with an activity about geography, sport and climate change; this features issues and case studies studied in our Geographies of Sport final year undergraduate module.

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• Amie's Student Story

  

  Amie is a Geography graduate:

  “My personal development has been incredible at the University. Practical elements of the course, such as fieldtrips, as well as extracurricular activities such as societies, have helped me hugely.”

  “If you love geography, this course is amazing! It covers so much and has so many module choices to suit everyone. I feel extremely confident that this course has set me up for my future career.”

  “I wouldn’t change my time at the University for anything. I can honestly say this University has changed my life!”

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• FAQs

  How will I be taught?

  Face-to-face sessions are organised as interactive classes with discussion and activities. For some modules, there are workshops in the laboratory or computer room. Classes are supported by online and technology-enhanced learning to ensure you have the best possible study experience to achieve your potential.

  How many hours per week of teaching/personal tutoring?

  Students typically have 12 hours contact time per week, in addition to 20-25 hours per week of independent study. Students are encouraged to meet with staff on a one-to-one basis to get additional study support, and also receive timetabled personal tutor meetings each term.

  How will I be assessed?

  Each module generally has two items of assessment. Assignments are designed to develop your skills, as well as test your knowledge and understanding. There is a range of written assignments, including reports and essays. You may also be asked to analyse data or reflect on your learning. In some written assignments you will be tasked with writing in a style appropriate to a particular audience. Presentations, debates and discussions are used to assess your verbal communication skills. There are no formal examinations, but there are a small number of class-based tests. A detailed set of instructions is provided for every assignment. Students are encouraged to meet with academic staff to get one-to-one support.

  What careers can I go into from studying this course?

  The programme equips students with a broad knowledge base and a wide range of skills that are attractive for many careers requiring graduate skills. Our graduates gain employment in range of sectors such as planning, environment, transport, education, energy, insurance, and local government. Opportunities to network with graduates are incorporated into the programme.

  Are there any study trips?

  Fieldwork is key to understanding geographical issues and developing transferable skills. Many of our modules include part- or full-day field trips. Typical locations include London and the Midlands. In addition, we often conduct fieldwork on and around campus. There are UK residential trips at Stage 2. Recent trips have included five days in Devon studying physical geography techniques and topics, and two days in Sheffield exploring urban geographies. There may be optional overseas trips. Locations in previous years include Barcelona, Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon. We fund travel and accommodation costs on compulsory study trips. There are additional fees for optional trips.

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Careers and Employability

We offer an innovative approach to enhancing your employability. Career planning workshops take place in all years of study. In addition, there is a career planning module, which focuses on developing your awareness of jobs you can do with a Geography degree, recruitment processes, and your own subject-specific and transferable skills.  We work closely with careers advisers to ensure students get one-to-one career guidance and support.  Guest speakers from a range of businesses and organisations – including lots of our own Geography graduates – contribute to the curriculum. This gives students ‘real-world’ insights into current issues, provides up-to-date information about the workplace, and gives opportunities for networking with potential employers. We are confident that this experience gives you the edge when applying for employment or postgraduate training. Our graduates gain employment in a wide range of sectors such as planning, environment, transport, education, energy, insurance, and local government.