Geography (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)

Course overview

Geography is the study of the diverse physical features of the Earth’s surface and the complex network of human interactions between the world’s physical, social, and cultural systems. Geographers can play a major role in tackling the global challenges that face the world.

You explore natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities to address environmental, social and political issues, such as climate change, conservation, biodiversity, urban development, globalization, sustainability and migration.

Outside the classroom fieldwork, computer, and laboratory activities see you apply your learning and develop your practical skills. Teesside’s local environments present a fascinating landscape for you to explore, including the North York Moors, North Pennines, Tees Valley, and the socially and culturally diverse spaces of urban Middlesbrough. An international fieldtrip is an opportunity to translate your theoretical knowledge and practical skills into a new environment.

You learn in small teaching groups with other students across the geosciences cluster, giving you diverse and peer-supported learning in a dedicated geoscience teaching and research space on campus.

Staff are active researchers, and have published and presented, nationally and internationally. They work closely with regional organizations, where you can gain practical experience working on active, regionally-relevant research projects.

You learn subject specific skills and a broad range of transferable skills, such as teamwork, data processing, critical thinking, and communication. These skills can be applied to a range of sectors, such as the environmental sector, local government, civil service, third sector, international development, and teaching. An optional work placement year is included, at no extra cost.

Career opportunities

Studying geography will give you a broad subject knowledge, and a range of transferable skills in communication, research, critical thinking, and data analysis. During your course advice, support and initiatives provide you with employment opportunities.

Popular careers for geography graduates include:

• Cartographer
• Geopolitical analyst
• Environmental manager
• Environmental consultant
• Surveyor
• Geospatial analyst
• Town planner
• Social researcher
• Conservation officer
• Teacher

You are also well placed to continue your geography studies at postgraduate level.