Program Overview

Course Overview

The University of Sheffield offers a BSc in Geography, a three-year physical geography course that is a blend of field-based learning, technical training, and building practical skills. The course is accredited by the Royal Geographical Society and provides a solid academic foundation in geographical knowledge and skills, preparing students to address the needs of the world beyond higher education.

Course Description

The course covers field trip costs, ensuring everyone has the chance to carry out fieldwork. It is fully accredited and ranked 1st for 'teaching on my course' in the subject of physical and geographical sciences. The course explores the natural environment and learns how to tackle contemporary global issues, such as natural hazards, climate change, and rising sea levels.

Modules

The course includes a range of modules, such as:

• Earth, Wind, Ice and Fire
• Critical Inquiry
• Global Challenges
• Physical Geography and Environmental Science in the Field
• Maps and Stats
• GIS, Earth Observation and Data Analysis
• Understanding Dynamic Landscapes
• Glacial Processes and Hazards
• Physical Geography Research Design and Fieldwork
• Dissertation

Learning and Assessment

The course combines theory and concepts with hands-on, practical experience. Fieldwork is at the heart of the course, with multiple fieldwork opportunities allowing students to design, conduct, and present their own research projects. Assessment is through a combination of coursework and exams, with coursework including essays, reports, policy briefs, stakeholder analysis, and science communication activities.

Entry Requirements

The standard offer for the course is AAB at A Level, with alternative offers for students with other qualifications. The course also has specific requirements, such as GCSE Maths grade 4/C.

Graduate Careers

Graduates from the course develop the scientific skills to discover and understand the physical and environmental processes that shape our world, and to communicate this specialist knowledge to a broad range of audiences. They are employed across a range of sectors, including meteorology, hydrology, geotechnical engineering, environmental consultancy, GIS analysis, conservation, and land management.

Department

The School of Geography and Planning at the University of Sheffield is a world leader in teaching and research, ranked within the top 40 universities in the world for geography. The school has a high staff-to-student ratio, ensuring excellent quality teaching and pastoral support throughout studies.

University Rankings

The University of Sheffield is a world top-100 university, ranked 92nd in the QS World University Rankings 2026. It is also ranked number one in the Russell Group for student experience and has a top 20 university targeted by employers.

Fees and Funding

The tuition fees for the course are £9,535 for home students and £26,820 for overseas students. The course also has additional costs, such as field trip costs, which are met by the school. The university offers scholarships and bursaries to support students, including a £2,500 per year scholarship for international students.

Placements and Study Abroad

The course offers optional placements and study abroad opportunities, allowing students to gain experience and develop their skills in a range of settings. The university has partnerships with over 250 universities worldwide, providing opportunities for students to study abroad. The course also includes field trips and residential field classes, which are an integral part of the course.