Explore the impact of humans on our world.

Geography and Environmental Science professionals provide solutions to many of the environmental issues facing urban and rural environments and populations. These include physical planning; use of resources; environmental health; environmental management and life cycle analysis. Increasingly it also includes the emergency aspects of environmental, economic and social development brought about by climate change, new ways of living, unstable earth systems and human conflict.

Why study a Geography and Environmental Sciences Foundation Year at Northumbria?

This foundation year bridges the gap between school and undergraduate level study, providing a broad introduction to the subjects. The course provides both academic knowledge and practical skills, and makes use of high quality, current technology and on-site laboratories. It is the first step towards developing the skills you will need to engage successfully with life beyond the classroom, preparing you for working in an environmental context.

Top Department: Geography & Environmental Science is ranked Top 40 in the UK by the Complete University Guide for 2024.

Super Satisfaction: 100% of students studying Human Geography at Northumbria believed that their course had the right balance of direct and indirect study, felt free to express their ideas, opinions, and beliefs and believed their course challenged them to achieve their best work (NSS, 2023).

Research Powerhouse: Geography and Environmental Studies at Northumbria is ranked 2nd for research power in the UK. This is a rise of 39 places compared to 2014.

Quality Teaching: Geography & Environmental Science at Northumbria is ranked top 20 in the UK for Teaching Quality & Student Experience (Times Good University Guide, 2024)

Following successful completion of the foundation year you will qualify to join any of the following degrees:

• Geography BA (Hons)
• Geography BSc (Hons)
• Physical Geography BSc (Hons)
• Environmental Science BSc (Hons)

How will I learn on this course?

The course comprises six 20-credit modules that are completed over two semesters. These include environmental geography and environmental issues modules; sustainable development; earth resources; human geography and post-industrial landscapes; and the tutorial and fieldwork module which will help you to develop the skills to transition to University level study.

Teaching methods include lectures and seminars, practical use of tools and equipment, laboratory work, fieldwork, visits from professional speakers as well as guided and self-study. You will get the chance to work as an individual and to learn with others in group situations.

Assessments are designed to help you develop both general and discipline specific knowledge as well as developing transferable skills including communication, research and teamwork that will prepare you for progression onto your chosen undergraduate degree.

See all the Modules for this course

Who teaches the Geography and Environmental Sciences Foundation Year course?

The teaching team in the Department of Geography and Environmental Science are a diverse group of experts who share a genuine passion for their subject specialisms. They draw on their backgrounds and experiences in both academic teaching and practice to shape the course and bring real-life experience to your learning. As such, the course is strongly influenced by professional and industry practice and will continue to evolve in line with developments across the sector.

All of our academic staff are approachable, passionate about their subject and, above all, committed to your development, they are there to support you through every step of your foundation year.

Where will I study during my time at Northumbria?

The Department offers a host of specialist laboratory facilities, field equipment and specialist software including a qualitative research suite and social spaces to support learning. On-site study facilities also include The Hub which is a dedicated learning area and resource centre, and The Zone – a 24/7 study space.

You will also benefit from the use of technologies to support learning, teaching and the student experience. This includes the e-learning portal, Northumbria’s Virtual Learning Environment, which houses course materials, study notes and reading lists.

The City Campus Library provides learning resources and additional study space. The Library, which is accessible 24/7, has achieved some of the highest levels of student satisfaction in the UK. In addition, it has held the Cabinet Office accreditation for Customer Service Excellence since 2010.