A Geography Degree

A Geography Degree covers a broad range of elements making it appeal to people with a wide variety of interests. 

What is Geography?
Geography is unique in bridging the social sciences with the earth sciences.  This is possible through its understanding of the dynamics of cultures, societies and economies (human geography) and its understanding of physical landscapes and environmental processes (physical geography).  Geography’s strength comes from its ability to unite a kaleidoscope of knowledge from different disciplines – for example, ecology, geology, economics and politics – and to interpret the bigger picture within a spatial context.  Over the past century the subject has evolved from a simple descriptive science to a major applied science dealing with issues such as climate change, population trends, globalisation and resource management. 

Who studies geography?
A Geography Degree appeals to those who are interested in understanding the world around them and to people concerned about the impact of humans on the physical environment.  The range of transferable skills, such as team skills, decision-making, IT and communication skills, which are acquired during a geography degree makes it an attractive and sensible option for those who have yet to map out a clear career path.  So, whether you have a desire to contribute to finding solutions to some of the world’s most critical issues or whether you simply have a fascination for people and places, then geography may be the degree for you.

A Geography Degree – Choosing The Right Geography Degree

Geography Degrees are available at most UK universities and colleges. There are approximately 90 institutions in the UK offering courses in geography (or courses with a large geographical component).  Geography degrees can be classified as either BSc or BA, however, there is often little difference between the two in terms of content as both offer combinations of human, physical and environmental geography courses.  Some students choose to specialise in either human geography or physical geography but others wish to retain a broader combination of the two.  A small number of universities offer degree programmes specialising in physical or human geography.

Key geographical concepts are taught across all the institutions but due to the diverse nature of the discipline courses can vary enormously in content.  Modules tend to be based around the research interests and specialisms of departmental staff.  Therfore, have a think about your long term possible career routes and be sure to choose the right programme that suits all your needs as there will be lost of choice.

Fieldwork In Geography Degrees
Fieldwork in a geography degree is an extremely important option to consider.Not only will it provide you new skills and research techniques it will also help with your employment prospects when you graduate. Fieldwork in geography offers a wealth of interesting locations to study topics such as coastal erosion, urban regeneration and tourism.  Fieldtrips outside of the UK may take you to places such as Spain to study European integration and regional identity or to the French Alps to study glacial processes.  In addition to fieldtrips, the majority of degrees include a compulsory or optional dissertation.  This can be an extremely rewarding element as you are expected to carry out an individual research project on a subject of your choice.  Your dissertation can then be used as evidence of your work to show potential employers.

For more information on studying a degree in Geography contact:
The Royal Geographical Society
www.rgs.org

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