Programme overview
BSc Geography focuses on the natural and physical processes shaping the Earth's surface over different temporal and spatial scales. It will appeal to you if you have an interest in the natural sciences.
The programme will provide you with a broad understanding of geographical aspects of human society and the physical environment, and their complex interrelationships. It provides you the opportunity to develop your interests in the discipline and gain a more detailed appreciation of a variety of specific aspects of geography in which the School specialises. Through fieldwork in physical geography and other forms of experiential learning, the programme aims to promote curiosity about natural environments and enable you to develop a range of skills specific to the physical geographer, including key skills in physical geography research methods and analysis such as remote sensing and climate modelling. In addition you will develop a series of cognitive, generic and transferable skills and improved self confidence.
In contrast to our BA Geography, the BSc programmes offer the opportunity for you to undertake physical geography research methods, participate in a physical geography field trip, and carry out a physical geography dissertation. The first year of the programme provides a grounding in both physical and human geography, in preparation for greater flexibility and specialisation in the second and final years. You can choose from a diverse set of optional modules and design a programme to suit your developing interests. Physical geography optional modules include subjects as diverse as: Climate Change and the Politics of Energy; Geography, Business and the Environment; Atmospheric and Oceanic Systems; Earth Observation Science; Long-term Landscape Evolution; and Integrated Science.
From 2012 the new Environment and Sustainability Institute (ESI) will play a key role in the study experience for all students on the Cornwall Campus. The ESI will give you the opportunity to develop your knowledge about the causes and consequences of environmental change and how to manage its effects, and to work with internationally acclaimed experts who are at the forefront of research in this area.
BSc Geography (Environmental Management) pathway
If you start the BSc Geography programme in 2012 then you will have the option of following the Environmental Management pathway in your second year. The Environmental Management pathway focuses on the science of the dynamic interaction between human society and the environment and the application of science to the management of human-impacted environments. It includes the integrated study of contemporary issues such as climate change, land use, energy and sustainability. It will appeal to you if you have a strong interest in the environment and a natural science background. If you chose this pathway you will graduate with a degree title of BSc Geography (Environmental Management).
Why study Geography at our Cornwall Campus?
- 8th in the UK for world leading research in Geography and Environmental Studies1, our expertise feeds into our research-led teachiing so you will study and learn with leading academics who are shaping the field of study
- 12th for Geography in The Times Good University Guide 2010
- Flexible degree structures allowing you to tailor your study to suit your developing interests
- Choice of exciting field courses in the UK and abroad
- Our programmes treat Cornwall as a 'natural laboratory', taking learning into the field to explore the incredible diversity of cultural, natural and ecological landscapes in the region
- Opportunities to use specialist equipment including GIS, remote sensing and digital mapping software
- Opportunities to develop vocational skills highly sought by employers
- Innovative teaching techniques including a virtual field trip, video-conferencing, web-casting and scenario-based project work that grounds learning in the real world
- Excellent facilities at the £100 million Cornwall Campus near Falmouth
- Tutorial-based teaching system enabling you to have regular contact with tutors
1 RAE 2008 based on percentage of research classified as 4*
The lecturers utilise the environment and landscape for their research, attracting both high-profile academics and like-minded students who are enthusiastic to embrace all that Cornwall has to offer. Geography really aids this with all the local field trips and is especially moulded around the sites in Cornwall which are at its disposal, making the degree practical, exciting and relevant. Read Abi's full profile.
Abi Brady, BSc Geography, Cornwall Campus
