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Geography Degrees
Ever seen a strange rock formation and wondered how it got that way? Or watched a documentary abo…Read More
- COURSE STRUCTURE & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
- GEOGRAPHY SPECIALIZATIONS
- CAREER OPTIONS
What do geography degrees cover?
The geography topics you cover will largely depend on whether you’ve opted for a degree focused on physical geography or human geography, though at undergraduate (bachelor’s) level it is often possible to cover aspects of both before choosing a specialization.
Human geography is concerned with the study of human societies – how they operate, develop, and the challenges they face. So if you choose a human geography course, you may cover issues such as population change, cultural and religious practices, or various aspects of globalization. Physical geography, on the other hand, is about understanding the Earth’s physical processes – from climates and weather systems, to earthquakes and rock formations, right down to what’s happening on the ocean floor.
Reflecting the broad scope of geography degrees, you’ll find them titled either as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc), or at postgraduate level, a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MSc). Often the BA and MA options correspond to a human geography focus while BSc/MSc are in the physical geography field – but this isn’t always the case, so always check the course details.
Entry requirements for geography degrees
Again reflecting the diversity of geography topics, entry requirements for geography degrees can vary, and are often relatively flexible in terms of the academic background required. Applicants will typically be expected to have studied some aspects of geography and achieved good grades at secondary level. Related science and social science subjects may also be an asset, including physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, sociology, economics, politics and history. You’ll need to be able to explain why you want to study geography, perhaps with reference to potential future geography careers or topics you’re especially passionate about. You may be asked to attend an admissions interview, while international students may need to submit proof of proficiency in the language used to teach the course.
Course structure and assessment methods
An undergraduate-level (bachelor’s) geography degree will usually last three or four years, depending on the country of study, while master’s programs take one or two years. Teaching methods will include lectures, seminars and field work, often involving extended trips to different locations. As geography is such a broad subject, students have the opportunity to choose from a wide variety of optional modules. This doesn’t necessarily mean simply choosing between physical geography or human geography; often it’s possible to combine elements of both. Assessment is based on exams, course work, and field work projects. At the end of the course, students are usually expected to write a dissertation on a topic of their choice.
Discover the world’s top universities for geography
Key Skills
Common skills gained from a geography degree include:
- Ability to analyze different types of data, and identify patterns and implications
- Understanding of academic publications and how to use them
- Field work skills, including mapping and sample analysis
- Data-collection, including survey design and interpretation
- Lab-based and technical skills, including mathematical modelling
- Excellent written and spoken communication
- Ability to approach issues from multiple perspectives (including ethical, social, economic, and scientific)
- Understanding of key issues in contemporary human and/or physical geography
Geography, Bsc
Geography is key to understanding and resolving many of the most pressing problems faced by society, including climate change, poverty, energy transitions, sustainable development and environmental conservation. Our degree programmes reflect these modern-day challenges, with core and optional courses aimed at producing highly skilled graduates who can think critically and develop solutions to tackle these problems.
The University of Aberdeen is ranked 1st in Scotland and 6th in the UK for Geography & Environmental Science by the Complete University Guide, 2022.
Study Information
At a Glance
Learning ModeOn Campus Learning Degree QualificationBSc Duration48 months Study ModeFull Time Start MonthSeptember UCAS CodeF800 Pathway Programme AvailableUndergraduate Foundation Programme
Our teaching is research-led, delivered by staff who are actively investigating some of the most important problems facing the world today – problems with social and environmental dimensions which geographical knowledge can help us understand and resolve.
In the First Year of your Geography degree, you will study two courses that provide an introduction to Geography in all its diversity. Both courses incorporate a workgroup programme alongside a lecture series covering aspects of Human and Physical Geography.
- Creating the Anthropocene reflects upon the role humans have played in creating the Anthropocene (the epoch we are now living in), a time period during which Human actions have become more significant than natural processes in shaping the world we currently live in.
- The UN Sustainable Development Goals looks at how we address the contemporary global challenges that we are facing today? This course builds on the challenges that have arisen during the Anthropocene, and introduces the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals as a global call for action.
In Second Year and Third Year, you will begin specialising in the areas of Geography that most interest you or align with your career aspirations. In the Fourth Year, you will pursue an individual piece of geographical research in your Dissertation Project and choose courses that reflect the truly cutting-edge research strengths of Geography and Environment in Aberdeen.
BSc or MA?
At Aberdeen, you can choose to study Geography through either the Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Master of Arts (MA) degree programmes. The main difference between the BSc and MA programmes is the other subjects you will study alongside Geography. For the BSc, these will be mainly science subjects, while MA students can choose subsidiary courses from across the humanities and social sciences. Both the BSc and MA Geography degrees are accredited by the Royal Geographical Society.
How You’ll Study
Learning Methods
- FIELD TRIPS
- FIELD WORK
- GROUP PROJECTS
- INDIVIDUAL PROJECTS
- LAB WORK
- LECTURES
- RESEARCH
- SEMINARS
- TUTORIALS
- WORKSHOPS
Assessment Methods
Students are assessed by any combination of three assessment methods:
- coursework such as essays and reports completed throughout the course;
- practical assessments of the skills and competencies learnt on the course; and
- written examinations at the end of each course.
The exact mix of these methods differs between subject areas, year of study and individual courses.
Honours projects are typically assessed on the basis of a written dissertation.
Why Study Geography?
- Our degree programmes focus upon the key environmental, economic, societal and technological challenges we currently face in the world.
- Suited to those looking to study Geography, who have a personal interest in the physical sciences.
- Many courses in human and physical geography, including specialist Honours options, draw directly on the staff’s own research into sustainability transitions, the use of digital technologies, environmental conservation, land management urban development, rural change, water management, climate change, glaciology, remote sensing and past environmental change.
- In years 1 and 2, you are taught across the full breadth of the subject. Courses are designed to provide an introduction to 21st century Geography, and cover major contemporary challenges including climate change, uneven development, societal inequalities and environmental conservation. The modular structure brings great flexibility; you can choose from a range of courses from across the university to complement your core Geography studies.
- Honours years (years 3 and 4) allow for specialisation, where you engage with the subject in greater depth and various pathways are possible. Courses offered include our courses on Human Geography, which introduce you to topics such as the development of cities and processes such as gentrification, uneven development and inequalities, to environmental problems (and how to solve them). Our physical geography courses cover topics that include hydrology, glaciology and palaeoecology using practical exercises to build relevant data analysis skills.
- Aberdeen is a great place to study Geography, with the region’s spectacular mountain and coastal areas, a vibrant city and rural communities, providing perfect field sites for the study of geography.
- Our Royal Geographical Society accredited degree in Geography is designed to provide you with key skills and knowledge (e.g. data analysis, GIS) appreciated and often required by employers.
- Fieldwork is integral to Geography, and at the same time provides some of the most memorable experiences of your degree. Our fieldwork options also provide core skills for your future career, giving you vital transferable skills and experience of working in teams and independently in some of the world’s most dynamic environments.
- Engage outside the classroom through our very active Geography Society.
What Our Students Say
Previous
Erin Gilchrist
I have loved studying Geography at Aberdeen. 1st and 2nd year courses are a mixture of physical and human geography which allow time to decide what your interests are before selecting more specific courses into 3rd and 4th year.
Jennifer Pirie
Studying Geography at Aberdeen is great! Courses are diverse and opportunities are made available to you which helps enhance your studies.
Joanne McDonald
The geography staff are great and really take the time to get to know you, the department offers a diverse range of interesting courses and best of all there are plenty of opportunities to study abroad!
Nurah Niazy
As a Geography student at Aberdeen, I’ve been able to engage in interdisciplinary approaches and develop skills in geographical research. The staff members create a supportive environment that continues to be a great source of inspiration to me.
Simone Arvid
Studying MA Geography at UoA has been my best decision ever. It has offered a great sense of community and friendships across different years, an interesting range of courses as well as dedicated members of staff.
Entry Requirements
Qualifications
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
General Entry Requirements
- 2021 Entry
- 2022 Entry
SQA Highers
Standard: AABB*
Applicants who have achieved AABB (or better), are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/ Advanced Highers may be required.
Minimum: BBB*
Applicants who have achieved BBB (or are on course to achieve this by the end of S5) are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will normally be required.
Adjusted: BB*
Applicants who have achieved BB, and who meet one of the widening participation criteria are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will be required.
* Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
A LEVELS
Standard: BBB*
Minimum: BBC*
Adjusted: CCC*
* Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
International Baccalaureate
32 points, including 5, 5, 5 at HL, with two Mathematics/ Science subjects at HL.
Irish Leaving Certificate
5H with 3 at H2 AND 2 at H3 including a minimum of H3 from two Science or Mathematics subjects.
Entry from College
Advanced entry to this degree may be possible from some HNC/HND qualifications, please see www.abdn.ac.uk/study/articulation for more details.
The information displayed in this section shows a shortened summary of our entry requirements. For more information, or for full entry requirements for Sciences degrees, see our detailed entry requirements section.
Entry requirements for applicants from
English Language Requirements
To study for an Undergraduate degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL – 6.0 with: Listening – 5.5; Reading – 5.5; Speaking – 5.5; Writing – 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL – 78 with: Listening – 17; Reading – 18; Speaking – 20; Writing – 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL – 59 with: Listening – 59; Reading – 59; Speaking – 59; Writing – 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL – 169 with: Listening – 162; Reading – 162; Speaking – 162; Writing – 169
International Applicants
International Applicants who do not meet the Entry Requirements
The University of Aberdeen International Study Centre offers preparation programmes for international students who do not meet the direct entry requirements for undergraduate study. Discover your foundation pathway here.
Fees and Funding
You will be classified as one of the fee categories below.
| Fee category | Cost |
|---|---|
| RUK | £9,250 |
| Students Admitted in 2021/22 | |
| EU / INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS | £20,700 |
| Tuition Fees for 2021/22 Academic Year | |
| HOME STUDENTS | £1,820 |
| Tuition Fees for 2021/22 Academic Year |
Scholarships and Funding
Students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland, who pay tuition fees may be eligible for specific scholarships allowing them to receive additional funding. These are designed to provide assistance to help students support themselves during their time at Aberdeen.
International Applicants
Additional Fees
- In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips. Any additional fees for a course can be found in our Catalogue of Courses.
- For more information about tuition fees for this programme, including payment plans and our refund policy, please visit our InfoHub Tuition Fees page.
Our Funding Database
View all funding options in our Funding Database.
Careers
Studying Geography develops a range of transferable skills such as: critical thinking, research design, data analysis skills, proficiency in IT (GIS and remote sensing in particular) and the ability to communicate effectively in various formats. Geographers also acquire specialist knowledge of cultural, political, economic and environmental issues and the ability to evaluate these from different perspectives – local, national and international.
Employers value these attributes and with our Royal Geographical Society accredited degrees, Aberdeen Geography graduates enter a wide range of careers including: environmental management, conservation and planning, government agencies, business and commerce, and work involving technical skills such as surveying, GIS and remote sensing.
72% of Aberdeen geography graduates find employment within 6 months, while a further 22% go on to further study. An Honours degree in geography can also lead on to a higher degree, and a significant proportion of our graduates study for a Masters and PhD degree.
Geography graduates have gone onto work for a number of leading organisations, including:
- Delta Energy & Environment
- Emirates Park Zoo
- Highlands & Islands Enterprise
- ServGroup
- Stork Technical Services
- AECOM
- HW Energy
- Shell
- Scottish Environment Protection Agency
- Grampian Soil Survey
- ScientificDrilling
- Aberdeenshire Council
Career Opportunities
- Environmental Consultant
- GIS Technician
- Graduate Ecologist
- Graduate Environmental Planner
- Graduate Trainee – Waste Services
- Supply Chain Management Trainee
- Sustainability Consultant
- Trainee Technician
Accreditation
This degree holds accreditation from
Previous
Ranked 1st in Scotland and 6th in the UK
The University of Aberdeen is ranked 1st in Scotland and 6th in the UK for Geography & Environmental Science by the Complete University Guide, 2022.
Introduction to Geography
An introduction into The University of Aberdeen Geography Department for undergraduate students.
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What our Alumni Say
Previous
Robert Hobkirk
Job DetailsHead of Sustainability Compliance & Risk, NHS GrampianGraduated 2016
I gained a large skill set which has served me well, both gaining my current job, acquiring environmental skills, writing skills the dissemination of large bodies of information.
Joanna Duck
Job DetailsGraduate Consultant, AECOMGraduated 2016
The skills acquired through my undergraduate Geography degree placed me ideally for beginning a career in transportation.
Katie Black
Job DetailsGraduate Development Programme, Scottish EnterpriseGraduated 2016
The various field trip opportunities offered are fantastic, I was lucky enough to spend these trips with a great group of friends.
Matthew Cook
Job DetailsGraduate PlannerGraduated 2016
I particularly enjoyed discovering and researching elements within the subject which I did not initially think were geographic.
Information About Staff Changes
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. Staff changes will occur from time to time; please see our InfoHub pages for further information.
Features
GEOGRAPHY SOCIETY
Student-led Geography societyFind out more
GEOGRAPHY FIELD TRIPS
The Geography degree takes students on a range of local, national and international field trips.Find out more
DEPARTMENT OF GEOGRAPHY AND ENVIRONMENT WEBSITE
Visit the Department of Geography and Environment website for more information about our staff, teaching and research.Find out more
Related Undergraduate Degrees
- MAAnthropology and Geography
- MABusiness Management and Geography
- MAFrench and Geography
- MAGaelic Studies and Geography
- MAGeography
- MAGeography and German
- MAGeography and Spanish & Latin American Studies
- BScGeoscience
Discover Uni
Discover Uni draws together comparable information in areas students have identified as important in making decisions about what and where to study. You can compare these and other data for different degree programmes in which you are interested.
71%
of students were satisfied overall with their course.
Get in Touch
Contact Details
AddressStudent Recruitment & Admissions Service
University of Aberdeen
University Office
Regent Walk
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX
- EMAIL USstudy@abdn.ac.uk
- CALL US+44 (0)1224 272090
- ENQUIRE NOWUsing an online form
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Reasons to study geography
04 January 2021
Benefits of studying geography
Varied academic knowledge
Studying geography at university means you will gain a wide variety of knowledge that encompasses different subject areas. Although you will primarily be learning about human and physical geography, you will also be touching on history, economic, cultural, social and science subjects. You will gain a varied knowledge that will allow you to keep your options open in regards to any further studies you want to pursue or the career you want to follow.
Shape the direction of your degree
Geography degrees, such as those at Durham University, typically offer a variety of optional modules for you to choose from, both at undergraduate and postgraduate level. From the first year of your undergraduate geography degree, you will be able to start personalising your degree and what areas you want to specialise in, whether you want to learn more about the pressures on the planet or earth’s principles, the choice is yours.
Postgraduate degrees also offer optional modules, but you will typically already be following a specialism from the course you choose to study.
Highly desirable transferable skills
Alongside the varied knowledge you will learn, you will also develop a range of transferable skills that are highly desirable by potential employers. Many degrees help you develop transferable skills, but geography gives you a broad range of skills that will help you in any career path you choose to follow. Some examples of the skills you will develop with a geography degree include:
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving
- Advanced analytical skills
- Communication
- Data evaluation
- Data collection
- Planning
- Creative thinking
- Time management
- Self-motivation and self-reliance
- Report writing and data presentation
- Adaptability
Broad choice of future careers
Thanks to the transferable skills and academic knowledge you gain from studying geography at university, you will have an abundance of career paths to choose from. If you want to pursue a career directly related to your degree you could go on to become a cartographer, environmental manager, town planner or a secondary school teacher to name a few. Other careers you could look at pursuing include astronomer, landscape architect, international aid worker or meteorologist.
You could look at working in the private or public sector, or for a charity or non-governmental organisation and work in industries such as property, environmental, international development, military, business and engineering as a few examples.
Geography is a highly employable degree, with 89% of Durham University geography graduates securing employment or going on to further study within six months of graduating (Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education 2016/17).
Gain practical experience with fieldwork
Geography degrees give you the opportunity to put what you learn into practice before you graduate. You’ll have the opportunity to take part in fieldwork to enhance your studies – as well as conducting your own, related to what you’re interested in. Fieldwork is an excellent tool that allows you to gain practical real-world experiences, develop new skills and immerse yourself in your studies.
Prepare for an international career
Students that study geography tend to be more open-minded and show a clear interest in the world. You will typically have international opportunities throughout your degree. At Durham University, you have the option to conduct fieldwork abroad, which will help you experience other cultures and environments to help expand your global perspective. Alongside this and your academic knowledge, transferable skills and world view, you will be highly prepared for an international career and will stand out in the global employment market.
Make a difference
Graduating with a geography degree means you know about climate change, the environment, sustainability, urban regeneration, human rights, natural disasters, energy and international relations – topics which are becoming more and more important in recent times. With this knowledge, you could pursue a career that can make a difference to human life, whether it’s helping combat global warming, pushing ahead with urban renewal or identifying when a natural disaster may occur.https://www.youtube.com/embed/e5duo9w6d6Q?enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.durhamisc.com
Postgraduate opportunities
Another great benefit of a geography degree is the choice of postgraduate degrees you will have. With the varied knowledge and skills you will develop, you could apply to study a Masters degree in a range of different subject areas. You could continue to develop your geography knowledge, honing your skillset and interests to specialise in a specific area by studying a degree such as MA Risk (offered at Durham University). Alternatively, you could study a masters research degree.
Or you could study a postgraduate course in an area such as teaching, landscape architecture or even business to take your future career in a different or more specific direction.
Study geography at university in the UK
If you want to study geography at university in the UK then Durham University International Study Centre can help you get there. By studying one of our pathway programmes, such as the International Foundation Year or Pre-Masters Programme, you can develop the skills, academic knowledge and your English language ability to meet the requirements to study at Durham University.
