Geography, BSc

Introduction

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.

Study Information

At a Glance

• Learning Mode: On Campus Learning
• Degree Qualification: BSc
• Duration: 48 months
• Study Mode: Full Time
• Start Month: September
• UCAS Code: F800
• Pathway Programme Available: Undergraduate Foundation Programme

Year 1

Compulsory Courses

• Creating the Anthropocene (GG1010): This course 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 our world.
• The UN Sustainable Development Goals: Transforming Our World (GG1512): This course interrogates the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals. These encompass contemporary global challenges such as responsible consumption and production, no poverty, clean water and climate action.
• Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (PD1002): This course, which is prescribed for level 1 undergraduate students and articulating students who are in their first year at the University, is studied entirely online.

Optional Courses

• Plus 90 credit points from courses of choice.

Year 2

Compulsory Courses

• Skills and Techniques in Geosciences (GG2508): This course introduces students to a range of scientific and social scientific skills and techniques used in Geography.

Optional Courses

• Plus further credit points from courses of choice to gain a total of 120 credits
• Physical Environments (GG2013): This course provides an understanding of environmental processes and landscape change through time and space.
• Space, Economy and Society (GG2014): This course examines political, economic, social and cultural change from a geographical perspective.
• Environment and Society (GG2509): This course explores the complex and dynamic relationship between the environment and human societies.
• Mapping and Monitoring the Environment (GG2510): This course covers the practical aspects of remote sensing and GIS.

Year 3

Optional Courses

• Approaches to Geography (GG3031): This core course is designed to introduce Honours students to key debates on the nature and scope of academic geography.
• Approaches to Geography (GG3071): This core course is designed to introduce Honours students to key debates on the nature and scope of academic geography.
• Data Analysis (GG3068): This course is a mix of 1 hour lectures and 1 hour practical sessions using statistical analysis software (SPSS).
• Remote Sensing and Geographical Information Systems (GG3069): This course covers the practical aspects of remote sensing and GIS.
• Research Design (GG3573): This core course builds on GG2508 to provide an introduction to the conduct of research in the Geosciences at an advanced level.
• Research Design (GG3574): This core course builds on GG2508 to provide an introduction to the conduct of research in the Geosciences at an advanced level.
• Montane Environments (GG3577): The fieldtrip explores the physical geography of a montane area, at present the Italian Alps.
• Human Geography: Honours Field Course (GG3578): The course is based around a one week residential field-course supported by taught and student-led sessions on campus.

Year 4

Compulsory Courses

• Geography Dissertation (GG4023): The Honours dissertation provides students with the opportunity to produce a piece of independent and original research on an approved topic.
• Geographical Issues (GG4537): This core, 'capstone' course is designed to develop further students' critical understanding of the contemporary intellectual and real-world contexts in which the academic discipline of geography - and its graduates! - operates.

Optional Courses

• Plus 60 credit points from courses of choice, of which at least 30 credits must be from level 4 courses.

Learning Methods

• Field Trips
• Field Work
• Group Projects
• Individual Projects
• Lab Work
• Lectures
• Research
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Workshops

Assessment Methods

• Coursework such as essays and reports completed throughout the course
• Practical assessments of the skills and competencies learnt on the course
• Written examinations at the end of each course

Why Study Geography?

• Human Geography at Aberdeen is ranked 1st in the UK for student satisfaction by the 2024 National Student Survey, with an overall satisfaction score of 100%
• 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

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 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

Accreditation

• This degree holds accreditation from the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)

Entry Requirements

• SQA Highers: AABB (or better)
• A LEVELS: BBB
• 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

Fees and Funding

• England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland: £9,535
• EU / International students: £24,800
• Self-funded international students commencing eligible undergraduate programmes in 2025/26 will receive a £6,000 tuition waiver for every year of their programme
• Home Students: £1,820

Scholarships and Funding

• UK Scholarship
• Aberdeen Global Scholarship
• Funding Database

Our Experts

• Prof Matteo Spagnolo
• Dr Josie Geris
• Dr Anshuman Bhardwaj
• Dr Jean-Christophe Comte
• Dr David Green
• Dr David Haro
• Dr Dimitri Mauquoy
• Dr Tim Mighall
• Prof Brice Rea
• Dr Lydia Sam
• Dr Ed Schofield
• Dr Shaktiman Singh

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Degree Overview

The Geography program at the University of Aberdeen is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and understanding to tackle contemporary challenges related to environmental change, sustainability, and societal development. The program's overarching objective is to prepare students for careers in diverse fields, including environmental management, conservation, planning, research, business, education, and more. It aims to cultivate critical thinkers who can effectively analyze and address complex environmental and societal issues, with a focus on practical solutions and real-world application.

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Key features of the program:

• Focus on contemporary challenges: The curriculum addresses critical issues like climate change, global inequality, resource management, and environmental conservation.
• Emphasis on practical skills: The program equips students with hands-on skills in data analysis, GIS, field research, communication, and problem-solving, preparing them for diverse career paths.
• Global perspective: The program incorporates international case studies, diverse perspectives, and opportunities for global engagement.
The first two years of the program provide a strong foundation in both physical and human geography, while the later years allow for specialization in areas of particular interest.

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Year 1:

• Compulsory Courses: Students take two core courses, "Creating the Anthropocene" and "The UN Sustainable Development Goals," which introduce them to the key concepts and challenges of contemporary geography.
• Optional Courses: Students select 90 credits worth of optional courses from a wide range across the humanities and social sciences, allowing them to tailor their studies to their individual interests and career aspirations.

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Year 2:

• Compulsory Courses: Students take a core course on "Skills and Techniques in Geosciences," which provides them with essential research and field skills.
• Optional Courses: Students select THREE courses from a selection focusing on specific aspects of physical and human geography.
Additionally, they select further courses to reach a total of 120 credits.

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Year 3:

• Compulsory Courses: Students choose ONE specialization pathway, focusing on either "Approaches to Geography" or "Research Design."
• Optional Courses: Students select ONE course related to their chosen pathway and additional courses from a diverse range of options to reach a total of 120 credits.

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Year 4:

• Compulsory Courses: Students complete a research-based "Geography Dissertation" and a capstone course titled "Geographical Issues."
• Optional Courses: Students select 60 credits from a range of level 4 courses, allowing them to further specialize or explore new areas of interest.

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Overall, the program provides:

• A strong foundation in core geographical concepts and methods.
• Opportunities to specialize in areas of specific interest.
• Flexibility to choose from a wide range of optional courses.
• Hands-on experience through fieldwork, research projects, and practical exercises.

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Assessment

The assessment methods in the Geography program vary depending on the individual courses and modules. However, the program utilizes a combination of approaches, typically including:

• Coursework: Essays, reports, and assignments completed throughout the course.
• Practical assessments: Evaluating students' skills and competencies in applying geographical concepts and techniques.
The specific weight of each assessment type may vary depending on the course, and the program aims to provide a balanced and comprehensive assessment approach that tests students' knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities.

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Teaching

The Geography program at the University of Aberdeen utilizes various teaching methods to engage students and foster their learning. These include:

• Lectures: Providing introductions to key concepts, theories, and case studies.
• Seminars and tutorials: Smaller group sessions for in-depth discussion, analysis, and critical thinking.
• Practical classes and workshops: Hands-on activities and exercises to develop practical skills in data analysis, field research, mapping, and GIS.
• Independent study and research: Individual projects and dissertations that allow students to explore specific areas of interest in depth.
• Fieldwork: Opportunities for real-world application of knowledge and skills through field trips and research projects.
• Guest lectures and seminars: Engaging with visiting experts and scholars to broaden perspectives and deepen understanding.
The program also prides itself on its dedicated faculty, who are actively involved in research and bring real-world expertise and passion to their teaching. This creates a stimulating and supportive learning environment for students.

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Careers

The Geography program at the University of Aberdeen equips graduates with a diverse range of skills and knowledge that are highly valued by employers across various sectors. Graduates are prepared for careers in:

• Environmental management and consultancy: Working with government agencies, NGOs, and private companies on projects related to sustainable development, resource management, and environmental protection.
• Planning and policy: Contributing to urban planning, regional development, and policy formulation at local, national, and international levels.
• Research and academia: Pursuing further studies and research careers in various fields of geography, environmental science, and related disciplines.
• Education and training: Using their geographical expertise to teach, educate, and train others in schools, universities, or other educational settings.
• GIS and data analysis: Applying their spatial analysis skills in various industries like business, marketing, transportation, or public health.
The program's emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and research skills ensures that graduates are well-prepared to adapt to a changing job market and pursue diverse career paths. Additionally, the program offers career guidance and support to help students identify their career aspirations and develop the necessary skills and experience to achieve their goals.

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Other

• Highly ranked program: The program is ranked 1st in the UK for student satisfaction in Human Geography by the National Student Survey (2022).
• Global opportunities: The program provides opportunities for studying abroad, participating in international field trips, and engaging with global issues.
• Fieldwork: The program emphasizes practical experience through field trips and research projects, providing students with hands-on learning opportunities.
• Royal Geographical Society accredited: The program meets the high standards of the Royal Geographical Society, ensuring its graduates possess recognized expertise in the field.
• Diverse student community: Students benefit from a vibrant and diverse student community, including opportunities for collaboration and peer learning.

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Tuition Fees for 2024/25 Academic Year RUK: £9,250 EU / International students: £24,800 Home Students: £1,820

University of Aberdeen

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Overview:

The University of Aberdeen is a renowned institution of higher learning located in Aberdeen, Scotland. It boasts a rich history, having been established in 1495, making it one of the oldest universities in the UK. The university is known for its commitment to research and teaching, offering a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

The university provides a comprehensive range of services to support students in their academic journey. These include:

Academic Support:

Access to libraries, study resources, and academic advisors.

Student Life:

Opportunities for extracurricular activities, clubs, societies, and sports.

Accommodation:

On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.

Career Services:

Guidance and support for career planning and job hunting.

Financial Aid:

Scholarships, bursaries, and other financial assistance programs.

International Student Support:

Dedicated services for international students, including visa assistance and cultural integration programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Students at the University of Aberdeen can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including:

Sports:

Participation in various sports teams and leagues.

Societies and Clubs:

Joining student-led clubs and societies based on interests.

Events and Activities:

Attending social events, concerts, and cultural performances.

Student Union:

Engaging with the student union for representation and advocacy.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Academic Excellence:

The university is recognized for its high-quality teaching and research.

Global Reputation:

It holds a strong international reputation, attracting students from around the world.

Beautiful Campus:

The university is situated on a picturesque campus with historic buildings and modern facilities.

Vibrant City:

Aberdeen offers a lively city environment with a rich cultural scene.

Strong Research Focus:

The university is a leading research institution, with a focus on innovation and impact.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Aberdeen offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Degrees:

Bachelor's degrees in various disciplines, including Arts, Science, Engineering, Medicine, and Law.

Postgraduate Taught Degrees:

Master's degrees and postgraduate diplomas in specialized fields.

Postgraduate Research Degrees:

PhD programs and research opportunities in various research areas.

Online Learning:

Flexible online programs for students who prefer distance learning.

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Other:

The university is committed to sustainability and has been recognized for its efforts in this area. It is also a member of the Russell Group, a group of leading research-intensive universities in the UK.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

While the context mentions some aspects of student life, it does not provide a detailed description of the campus experience.

Key Reasons to Study There:

The context mentions some advantages, but it does not explicitly highlight the main reasons to study at the University of Aberdeen.