Program Overview

Introduction to the Geography BSc Program

The University of Sussex offers a Geography BSc program that explores the connections between people, places, and environments. This program focuses on the physical side of geography, covering themes such as climate change, geomorphology, hazards, and biogeography.

Key Information

• Duration: 3 years full-time
• Typical A-level offer: ABB
• UCAS code: F801
• Start date: September 2026
• The program is ranked 3rd in the UK for research impact in Geography and Environmental Studies (REF 2021) and 10th in the UK for Social Sciences (The Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025).

Program Structure

The Geography BSc program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of geographical concepts and techniques. The program includes:

• Core modules in Year 1, such as Human Geographies of the Modern World, Skills and Concepts in Geography, and The Natural World.
• Options in Year 1, including Biodiversity & Ecology and Geographies of Cities and Mobilities.
• Core modules in Year 2, such as Environmental Research Skills, Geographical Information Systems, and Global Climate Change.
• Options in Year 2, including Conservation Biology, Global Geographies of Economic Change, and Introduction to Sustainable Development.
• A Geography Thesis in Year 3.

Field Trips and Study Abroad

• The program includes assessed field classes, with options for overseas field trips (e.g., to the USA, China, and Greece) or a UK-based field trip.
• Students can also apply for an optional study abroad period or a placement year.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Geography BSc program can pursue careers in various sectors, including environmental conservation and planning, civil service and government, and business sustainability. The program develops strong research, numerical, technical, and resource-management skills, making graduates highly employable.

Fees and Funding

• Home students: ｣9,535 per year (2025/26)
• International students: ｣27,300 per year (2025/26)
• Additional costs may include field trip expenses, equipment, and materials.
• Scholarships are available, such as the Chancellor's International Scholarships and the Climate Leaders Scholarship.

Entry Requirements

• A-levels: Typical offer ABB
• GCSEs: Mathematics grade 4 (or C) and a broad range of GCSEs 9-4 (A*-C)
• International Baccalaureate: 32 points overall from the full IB Diploma
• Other qualifications: Acceptance of other qualifications, such as BTEC and Access to HE Diploma, on a case-by-case basis
• English language requirements: IELTS (Academic) 6.0 overall, with at least 5.5 in each component

English Language Requirements

• IELTS (Academic): 6.0 overall, with at least 5.5 in each component
• Other English language qualifications: Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English, Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English, Pearson (PTE Academic), and TOEFL (iBT)
• Country exemptions: Students from certain countries may be exempt from English language requirements

Our Staff

The Department of Geography at the University of Sussex has a team of experienced and research-active staff, including:

• Prof Joseph Alcamo
• Dr Alexander Antonarakis
• Dr David Armstrong McKay
• Dr John Barlow
• Prof Dominic Kniveton
• Dr Melissa Lazenby
• Prof Julian Murton
• Prof David Ockwell
• Dr Pedram Rowhani
• Prof Martin Todd
• Dr Yi Wang

Conclusion

The Geography BSc program at the University of Sussex offers a comprehensive and engaging education in geographical concepts and techniques. With its strong research focus, excellent career prospects, and supportive staff, this program is an ideal choice for students interested in pursuing a career in geography or related fields.