About this course
Develop an in-depth understanding of the processes that created the physical world in this hands-on, BSc Geography course. It's distinct from our BA Geography course, which focuses on human geography. This course will prepare you for work in a range of fields, from economic development to environmental management, engineering or finance.
Explore and study a range of human-impacted environments whilst you address current and future sustainability challenges. You’ll learn how to 'read' a landscape, analyse geographical data and use satellite images to understand our dynamic and changeable world.
As part of this course you can:
- study specialist computing and geographical information systems
- undertake fieldwork trips to places like Tenerife, Switzerland and Cambodia
- use specialist facilities including a purpose-built teaching lab and research-grade field equipment
- enhance your degree by studying one of 33 different minor subjects in an unrelated academic area (e.g. you can graduate with a degree in BSc Geography with Applied Economics)
- discover a new culture by studying abroad for a semester at one of our partner institutions (including Canada and Australia)
- boost your employability by spending a year in employment
You’ll analyse environments that range from coastal to volcanic as you discover how past climate change might hold the key to our planet's future.
During your second year you'll spend a week in Tenerife with your peers. Here, you'll learn about life on a volcanic island and how to design and execute your own field project. This is compulsory and there is no cost to attend.
We use the latest research to underpin our teaching. Our small-group approach means you'll spend plenty of time with academics and fellow students.
This course combines theory modules, practical fieldwork (both locally and abroad) and project work. You can shape the course to your personal interests or career plans by choosing from optional subjects such as:
- glaciers
- global water resources
- desert landscapes
- coastal and human interactions
- climate change
You'll carry out an individual research project with an academic supervisor which will develop sought-after skills and knowledge.
This course is accredited by the Royal Geographical Society with the Institute of British Geographers.
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2022 to 2023. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
Entry requirements
For Academic year 202223
A-levels
AAB if no prefered subjects are included or ABB if one or more preferred subjects are included.
A-levels additional information
Preferred subjects are Geography, Biology, Maths, Psychology, English Literature, Economics, History, Chemistry, Sociology, Environmental Science, Geology, Physics, Politics, Business, Art. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, your offer will be; ABB and Grade A in the EPQ, if no prefered subjects are included or BBB and Grade A in the EPQ, if one or more preferred subjects are included.
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows: ABB if no prefered subjects are included or BBB if one or more preferred subjects are included.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with minimum 34 points overall with 17 points at Higher Level if no prefered subject taken at Higher Level or Pass, with minimum 32 points overall with 16 points at Higher Level if one or more prefered subjects taken at Higher Level.
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Preferred subjects include Geography, Biology, Maths, Psychology, English Literature, Economics, History, Chemistry, Sociology, Environmental Science, Geology, Physics, Politics, Business, Art.
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements.
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
DDD in the BTEC National Extended Diploma DD in the BTEC National Diploma plus A in one A-level subject, D in BTEC National Extended Certificate plus grades AA from 2 A-levels
RQF BTEC
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience.
Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Additional information
BTEC Extended Diploma must be in a relevant subject area
QCF BTEC
DDD in the BTEC Extended Diploma DD in BTEC Diploma plus A in A-level subject D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus A A from 2 A-level subjects
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, of which 39 must be at Distinction and 6 credits at Merit or 60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, or which 30 must be a Distinction and 15 credits at Merit if a preferred subject.
Access to HE additional information
There are no additional requirements
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
A2 A2 A2 A2 B1 B1 if no preferred subject is included or A2 A2 B1 B1 B1 B1 if one or more preferred subjects included
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
AAAABB
Irish certificate additional information
Prefered subjects are Geography, Biology, Maths, Psychology, English Literature, Economics, History, Chemistry, Sociology, Environmental Science, Geology, Physics, Politics, Business, Art
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3 D3 M2 if no prefered subject included or D3 M2 M2 if one or more preferred subject is included.
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A Levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer where grade D3 can be used in lieu of grade A or M2 can be used in lieu of grade B. Preferred subjects are Geography, Biology, Maths, Psychology, English Literature, Economics, History, Chemistry, Sociology, Environmental Science, Geology, Physics, Politics, Business, Art.
Welsh Baccalaureate
AAB from 3 A Levels if no prefered subjects are included or AA from 2 A levels if one or more preferred subjects are included and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate. or ABB from 3 A Levels if one or more preferred subjects are included. or AB from 2 A levels if one or more preferred subjects are included and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate.
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Preferred subjects are Geography, Biology, Maths, Psychology, English Literature, Economics, History, Chemistry, Sociology, Environmental Science, Geology, Physics, Politics, Business, Art. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
European Baccalaureate
80% overall
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 5.5
- writing
- 5.5
- speaking
- 5.5
- listening
- 5.5
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
-
our Access to Southampton scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
-
skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
For Academic year 202324
A-levels
AAB if no prefered subjects are included or ABB if one or more preferred subjects are included.
A-levels additional information
Preferred subjects are Geography, Biology, Maths, Psychology, English Literature, Economics, History, Chemistry, Sociology, Environmental Science, Geology, Physics, Politics, Business, Art. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, your offer will be; ABB and Grade A in the EPQ, if no prefered subjects are included or BBB and Grade A in the EPQ, if one or more preferred subjects are included.
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows: ABB if no prefered subjects are included or BBB if one or more preferred subjects are included.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with minimum 34 points overall with 17 points at Higher Level if no prefered subject taken at Higher Level or Pass, with minimum 32 points overall with 16 points at Higher Level if one or more prefered subjects taken at Higher Level.
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Preferred subjects include Geography, Biology, Maths, Psychology, English Literature, Economics, History, Chemistry, Sociology, Environmental Science, Geology, Physics, Politics, Business, Art.
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
DDD in the BTEC National Extended Diploma DD in the BTEC National Diploma plus A in one A-level subject, D in BTEC National Extended Certificate plus grades AA from 2 A-levels
RQF BTEC
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Additional information
BTEC Extended Diploma must be in a relevant subject area
QCF BTEC
DDD in the BTEC Extended Diploma DD in BTEC Diploma plus A in A-level subject D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus A A from 2 A-level subjects
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, of which 39 must be at Distinction and 6 credits at Merit or 60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, or which 30 must be a Distinction and 15 credits at Merit if a preferred subject.
Access to HE additional information
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 H2 if no preferred subject is included or H1 H2 H2 H2 H3 H3 if one or more preferred subjects included.
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
A2 A2 A2 A2 B1 B1 if no preferred subject is included or A2 A2 B1 B1 B1 B1 if one or more preferred subjects included
Irish certificate additional information
Prefered subjects are Geography, Biology, Maths, Psychology, English Literature, Economics, History, Chemistry, Sociology, Environmental Science, Geology, Physics, Politics, Business, Art
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3 D3 M2 if no prefered subject included or D3 M2 M2 if one or more preferred subject is included.
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A Levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer where grade D3 can be used in lieu of grade A or M2 can be used in lieu of grade B. Preferred subjects are Geography, Biology, Maths, Psychology, English Literature, Economics, History, Chemistry, Sociology, Environmental Science, Geology, Physics, Politics, Business, Art.
Welsh Baccalaureate
AAB from 3 A Levels if no prefered subjects are included or AA from 2 A levels if one or more preferred subjects are included and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate. or ABB from 3 A Levels if one or more preferred subjects are included. or AB from 2 A levels if one or more preferred subjects are included and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate.
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Preferred subjects are Geography, Biology, Maths, Psychology, English Literature, Economics, History, Chemistry, Sociology, Environmental Science, Geology, Physics, Politics, Business, Art. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
European Baccalaureate
Minimum of 79% overall or Minimum of 76% overall if studying a preferred subject.
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
-
our Access to Southampton scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
-
skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
This degree consists of a set of core and compulsory modules and a selection of optional modules. You can choose your options from:
-
geography
-
related disciplines such as environmental science, geology, oceanography, sociology and politics
-
other subjects, such as modern languages
A major part of all our degree programmes is the research project. This involves personal fieldwork or documentary research, in the UK or abroad. You'll develop your topic with a member of staff who will give ongoing supervision. You'll start the project in your second year, and complete it in your final year.
Year 1 overview
This year provides a broad academic foundation in physical and human geography. Statistical and computing skills are also an important element in the early part of the degree.
You'll study a module called 'Dangerous Worlds'. This module explores aspects of climate change, including:
-
risks
-
exposure
-
vulnerability
-
resilience
-
sustainability
You'll also attend an in-depth, non-residential field course within the UK, looking at both physical and human geography topics.
There is a wide choice of optional modules.
Year 2 overview
You'll take core modules in physical geography. You can learn about remote sensing for earth observation or global water resources.
The highlight is the second year field course, where you will spend a full week in Tenerife with your peers learning about everything from life on a volcanic island (volcanology, biodiversity, hazards and natural resources) to how to design and execute your own field project. This is compulsory and there is no cost to attend.
Beyond the core modules, there are a wide range of other options to choose from. For example, you can learn the basic concepts and techniques behind geographic information systems.
You'll also go on an overseas field course to explore physical environments. Here, you'll get hands-on experience of collecting, analysing and presenting data.
You can take up to 2 modules outside geography. For example, you could explore:
-
environmental impact assessment
-
global health issues
-
social enterprise
Year 3 overview
You'll have a broad range of advanced options to choose from. These are based on the research interests of academic staff, and bring you to the frontier of current knowledge in geography.
You'll also have the option to travel further afield to Switzerland and Cambodia.
Whether fluvial processes, urban geography or health care provision fascinate you, you'll get a sense of cutting-edge issues and debate.
You will also complete a research project in your final year.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2022 to 2023. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
For entry in Academic Year 2022-23
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
The module aims to introduce students to the broad topic of globalisation. As a team-taught module, specific topics may change with occasional changes to the teaching team. At the time of writing, specific topics include: trade and the global economy (e.g...
This module provides an introduction to university level study and geography through curiosity, creativity and communication. There is an emphasis on academic, personal and geographical skills, introduced during lecture sessions and then applied through ...
The module will explore risk, hazard, exposure, vulnerability, resilience, and sustainability, all in the context of climate change: how these concepts relate to the Earth's physical and ecological systems, and to cultural and socio-economic structures of...
To give the student a basic knowledge of the main geomorphological processes involved in the shaping of the landscape. Pre-requisite of GEOG3020. One of the pre-requisites for GEOG2032, and GEOG3057.
This module introduces students to social and economic change, cultural diversity and spatial organisation in cities and western societies. The module also provides an introduction to two main fields in human geography - urban geography and social geograp...
The module will look at the challenges posed to human societies living on a dynamic planet and how these societies adapt (or not) to a range of environmental and socio-economic hazards. Pre-requisite for GEOG2006 One of the pre-requisites for GEOG...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 1:
In this module you will develop an understanding of the England and Wales criminal justice system, with a particular focus on its philosophies, institutional practices and processes and outcomes. You will gain an understanding of how the criminal justice ...
We understand that few students have had the previous opportunity to study social and cultural anthropology. In this introductory module you will consider questions like: What is anthropology? What do anthropologists study? What is it like to do anthropol...
In a world of fast and easy communication, we are increasingly working and studying alongside people from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Understanding our intercultural encounters allows us to develop awareness of ourselves and others, as ...
• Introduce students to the study of structures, actors and policy processes in international politics • Enable students to distinguish between competing explanations of international relations • Develop students’ ability to restate arguments and apply ...
This module aims to introduce students to key population issues in both the UK and world-wide.
This module connects the recent Black Lives Matter protests in the US and UK to histories of slavery, resistance and racism, allowing students to explore the beginnings of slavery, and the history of the institution, how enslaved people resisted slavery, ...
The module will look at key social transformations in the modern world and the way in which these have been analysed by social scientists.
Year 2 modules
You must study the following modules in year 2:
The module takes a problem-based approach in which students are exposed to a real world environmental management challenge and are taught the skills necessary to understand and quantify the key physical parts of the landscape system that contribute to the...
This module introduces students to field-based Physical Geography research and includes an overseas field component. It gives students hands-on experience at collecting data and the opportunity to practice techniques to analyse and present the data colle...
The module will introduce the basic concepts and techniques underpinning geographic information systems.
The module will look at the basic theory and practical application of remote sensing for monitoring the terrestrial environment. Pre-requisite for GEOG3065
You must also choose from the following modules in year 2:
The module will look at the conceptual, practical and methodological issues associated with using GIS for environmental and socio-economic applications.
This module encourages you to take an in-depth look at the way psychology has been used to explain and control crime. We will explore the way psychological principles can be applied to such issues as violence, murder, serial killing and the role of the c...
The module will look at key concepts in cultural geography.
Most states claim to be democratic. This module looks at the theory of democracy, including foundational questions about political inclusion, participation, and equality. As a result, students will develop a greater understanding of what democracy require...
The module will provide a foundation in contemporary economic geography, focusing on the ways in which economic, political and social processes construct the profound diversity of modern economic life.
According to the United Nations, India is on target to overtake China as the most populous country in the world by 2026. Since the introduction of economic liberalisation policies in early 1990s, India has emerged as the world’s sixth largest economy in t...
The module seeks to: - explore the main evolutionary processes - consider evolution at the phenotypic as well as the molecular level - consider evolutionary processes occurring at different time scales
Freshwater Ecosystems initially considers the interplay between the physics, chemistry and biology of freshwater ecosystems. A comparative approach is adopted, in which upland streams, lowland rivers, lakes and other standing freshwater environments are c...
The module will introduce sociological perspectives on gender and to contemporary debates about gender and society.
The topic is addressed from three perspectives: the science of climate change, impact and adaptation, and policy towards adaptation and mitigation. One of the pre-requisites for GEOG3057
The global health module is an exciting opportunity to examine the factors associated with emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases such as the recent outbreak of Ebola and Swine Flu that quickly spread around the world, and non-communicable diseases ...
The global challenge that is 'sustainability' impacts every dimension of all of our lives. Regardless of your degree, the social, cultural, economic and environmental dimensions of sustainability have important implications for your studies, your daily ...
This module will explore how humans have been impacting the planet over recent millennia, and how more recently the increased impacts are leading to tipping points in many global systems, from biogeophysical to social. As such the module will discuss a ra...
In a world of fast and easy communication, we are increasingly working and studying alongside people from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Understanding our intercultural encounters allows us to develop awareness of ourselves and others, as ...
Is it necessary -- and is it possible -- for the UK and other countries to make the change from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources? And what sort of changes would be involved, on a global, national and personal scale? Is there any one renewable ener...
GGES2004 examines long-term environmental change through the period of the glacial-interglacial cycles. These dramatic shifts in Earth's systems are fascinating to study because they show us how the environment reacted to rapid climate change in the past ...
This module builds on the basic principles of population ecology introduced in year 1, to achieve a broad appreciation of current theory and practice in population and community ecology. Lectures and practicals will explore the processes involved in the d...
This is an interactive and practical module aiming to inspire students to social enterprise and entrepreneurship by giving them an experiential introduction to human centred design processes. The emphasis in this module is on the translation of knowled...
An understanding of the physical, chemical and biological processes involved during contamination of air, water and soil is essential if society is going to effectively monitor and control the effects of pollution using modern technology and engineering p...
The major river systems that drain the Himalayas provide water that sustains the lives and livelihoods of a significant proportion of the global population, but a variety of pressures, including population growth, the motivation to stimulate economic deve...
In contemporary neoliberal societies individuals are increasingly positioned as responsible for their own wellbeing. In the first half of this module we look at how health and wellbeing are often reduced down to a lifestyle choice. But is health and wellb...
Year 3 modules
You must study the following module in year 3:
Independent research project to produce a thesis of original geographic research.
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
GEOG3057 is a multidisciplinary unit designed for students with an interest in how individuals and societies understand and respond to environmental shocks and stresses, and their different capacities for adaptation. The focus of the module is on climate ...
The module will look at the conceptual, practical and methodological issues associated with geospatial analysis for environmental and socio-economic applications.
This module will provide students with the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills required for developing their own GIS-based projects, either as standalone analysis or as part of a larger piece of work for both environmental and social applications....
This module concerns global biodiversity, what we understand by it and why it is in crisis, and current efforts to conserve and manage it. We begin with an appraisal of different values of diversity at scales from genetic to species, communities and ecosy...
This module is concerned with the development of modern societies and the nature of 'modernity'. It will draw on the writings of contemporary sociologists in order to consider what the most important processes of social change taking place are and how the...
Some of the biggest uncertainties in climate change predictions come from our lack of understanding of the impact of some of the smallest airborne dust particles. These dust particles are transported between continents from some of the hottest and most u...
According to the United Nations, India is on target to overtake China as the most populous country in the world by 2026. Since the introduction of economic liberalisation policies in early 1990s, India has emerged as the world’s sixth largest economy in t...
Health and the provision of health care are important issues in our everyday lives. Many of the debates surrounding health are inherently spatial in nature and as such geographers are well placed to play an important role in informing research and providi...
This module will enable students to apply their understanding of environmental problems and assess potential solutions through the application of law, policy, and management. The lecture sessions will introduce and analyse the theoretical development and ...
This course seeks to make use of innovative and cutting edge technologies in the field of Earth surface process monitoring to address the real world challenges encountered by commercial and/or governmental organisations. Students on this module will ta...
There has been growing interest in the past few years in how cities and regions respond and adapt to rapid, and often turbulent, economic change, and why some cities and regions appear much more successful than others in coping with and taking advantage o...
To enable students to design efficient and effective field, modelling, laboratory and data analytical approaches to conducting research on a range of physical geographical problems, with a particular focus on mountain environments
This module explores the relationship between gender, sexuality, space and place. We will examine how the spaces we occupy are never empty or neutral, but are imbued with history, identity and meaning. Why are certain bodies understood as ‘naturally’ enti...
This is a Module not about learning new facts or figures, or necessarily huge swathes of substantive knowledge about food consumption and food production (a dominant theme). Rather it invites you to develop a repertoire of theories and concepts to think c...
The module will introduce students to critical geographical themes as they relate to welfare, rights and social justice, including the state and territorialisation, community, confinement, deinstitutionalisation, landscapes of care, fragmentation and loca...
To investigate the modern research into glacial processes, to investigate analytical approaches to test contemporary controversial problems and to show how these processes formed the present day landscape
The global health module is an exciting opportunity to examine the factors associated with emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases such as the recent outbreak of Ebola and Swine Flu that quickly spread around the world, and non-communicable diseases ...
The global challenge that is 'sustainability' impacts every dimension of all of our lives. Regardless of your degree, the social, cultural, economic and environmental dimensions of sustainability have important implications for your studies, your daily ...
In a world of fast and easy communication, we are increasingly working and studying alongside people from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Understanding our intercultural encounters allows us to develop awareness of ourselves and others, as ...
GEOG3062 is a multidisciplinary unit designed for students with an interest in human migration and development and the interaction between the two. The module will emphasise the importance of place and scale in its approach to these themes, although it wi...
Nature Based Solutions (NBS) – actions to protect, sustainably manage, and restore natural or modified ecosystems – can play a critical role in mitigating not only climate change, but also increasing other benefits from nature (ecosystem services) that hu...
To develop an holistic approach to river basin management and restoration based on an understanding of physical processes and human modification of natural river systems.
This is an interactive and practical module aiming to inspire students to social enterprise and entrepreneurship by giving them an experiential introduction to human centred design processes. The emphasis in this module is on the translation of knowled...
If we are to address society’s waste problem we need to fully understand the environmental, occupational, public health, technical, fiscal, social, cultural, demographic and political influences on waste collection, reuse, recycling, minimisation and prev...
The module will provide understanding of current (and future) biophysical products derived from remote sensing data and how they are being used in regional to global scale monitoring of current vegetation function and condition. The module will expose stu...
GEOG3063 is a module designed for students who are interested in the creative economy and how it is being shaped by geographical processes related to globalisation, digitisation and flexibilisation. The module will cover topics that are central to underst...
The major river systems that drain the Himalayas provide water that sustains the lives and livelihoods of a significant proportion of the global population, but a variety of pressures, including population growth, the motivation to stimulate economic deve...
Learning and assessment
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Course time
How you'll spend your course time:
Year 1
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- developing websites
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written and practical exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Year 2
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 2:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- developing websites
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written and practical exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 2:
Year 3
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 3:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- developing websites
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written and practical exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 3:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Joanna Nield is the course leader.
Careers
You have access to many career choices with geography qualifications. You'll graduate with knowledge and skills that are highly sought after by employers, such as:
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quantitative and qualitative research methods
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statistics
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good communication
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lateral thinking across different social phenomena
Our graduates are always in demand for geography careers in:
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environmental management and consultancy
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urban and rural planning
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GIS
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economic development work
They also find work in a diverse range of fields beyond geography, such as engineering, finance and management.
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
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work experience schemes
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CV and interview skills and workshops
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networking events
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careers fairs attended by top employers
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a wealth of volunteering opportunities
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study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Work in industry
You’ll have the opportunity to take a paid year in employment between your second and third year.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £23,720.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.
Find out how to:
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
Scholarships and grants
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant that's linked to your chosen subject area.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Services Centre offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
When you apply use:
- UCAS course code: F800
- UCAS institution code: S27
What happens after you apply?
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
We'll aim to process your application within two to six weeks, but this will depend on when it is submitted. Applications submitted in January, particularly near to the UCAS equal consideration deadline, might take substantially longer to be processed due to the high volume received at that time.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000