Program Overview

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Introduction to the Physical Geography Program

The Physical Geography program at Cardiff University is a three-year full-time degree that explores the Earth's processes and systems. Students will develop a systematic understanding of spatial and temporal processes relating to the Earth's system, including a broad critical comprehension of the inter-relationships between these processes at a range of scales.

Subject Areas and UCAS Code

• Subject areas: Earth and environmental sciences, Geography (physical)
• UCAS code: F843
• Next intake: September 2026
• Duration: 3 years
• Mode: Full time

Why Study This Course

The Physical Geography course offers high-quality facilities, strong connections with local organizations, a flexible course structure, and great location. Students will have access to the latest technologies in surveying and mapping equipment, chemical laboratories, and laboratories with Geographic Information System (GIS) software. The course also provides opportunities for fieldwork, including regular day trips along the coast and to the Brecon Beacons in South Wales, as well as an overseas field trip.

Entry Requirements

We accept a combination of A-levels and other qualifications, as well as equivalent international qualifications subject to entry requirements. Typical offers are as follows:

A Level

• ABB-BBC (with 1 science subject) or BBB-BCC (with 2 science subjects)
• Acceptable science subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, ICT, Maths, Physics, Psychology, Statistics

International Baccalaureate

• 32-30 overall or 665-655 in 3 HL subjects (with 1 HL science subject) or 31-29 overall or 665-655 in 3 HL subjects (with 2 HL science subjects)
• Acceptable science subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Maths, Physics, Psychology

Baccalaureate Wales

From September 2023, there will be a new qualification called the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales (level 3)

Tuition Fees for 2026 Entry

Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on your fee status.

Fees for Home Status

• Year one: £9,535
• Year two: £9,535
• Year three: £9,535

Fees for Overseas Status

• Year one: £30,700
• Year two: £30,700
• Year three: £30,700

Additional Costs

Fieldwork costs are included, but you may need to contribute towards food if it is provided during the trip. You will need suitable clothing, including all-over waterproofs and ankle-supporting walking boots for field activities.

Course Structure

This is a three-year full-time degree. In your first year, you will study core modules and get a strong foundation in physical geography. In year two and three, there are core and optional modules, so you have some flexibility to choose to study the areas that you're interested in.

Year One

• Core modules:
  • World of Dynamic Environments
  • Exploring Planet Earth
  • GIS, Maps and Analytical Skills
  • Geography Field Skills
  • Understanding the Living Planet
  • Fundamentals of Geographical Science

Year Two

• Core modules:
  • Process Geomorphology & Hydrology
  • Geographical Fieldwork and Perspectives
• Optional modules:
  • Remote Sensing and Spatial Analysis
  • Biogeochemistry and Ecosystem Science
  • The Coastal System
  • The Ocean-Atmosphere System

Year Three

• Core modules:
  • Physical Geography Dissertation
  • Hazards, Risk and Resilience
• Optional modules:
  • Extreme Environments: biogeochemical perspectives
  • Marine Environmental Systems
  • Global Climate Change
  • Advanced Geography Fieldwork (Physical Geog)

Learning and Assessment

We are a friendly and informal school, and you will be taught by world-leading experts involved in cutting-edge international research. Our teaching approach is a mix of theory and practical and includes lectures, laboratory work, fieldwork, tutorials, workshops, and seminars.

Careers and Placements

With the planet under increasing pressure from climate change and a changing landscape, the knowledge and skills of a physical geographer are in demand. You can use your understanding of the Earth's processes to find sustainable solutions to many of the complex challenges we face today and in the future.

Fieldwork

Between the impressive mountains in the north and a biodiverse tidal estuary in the south, you will gain a wealth of hands-on experience exploring some of the UK's most unique areas of geographic interest. We take regular day trips along the coast and to the Brecon Beacons in South Wales, as well as a residential trip to Eryri in North Wales, and an overseas trip to Europe.