University of York

What you'll study

This degree covers the processes that shape the Earth's surface and the contemporary environmental challenges that arise from climate variability, land use change and human impacts. You will develop understanding across key sub-disciplines including climatology, hydrology, geomorphology, biogeography and soils, together with quantitative and technical skills such as statistics, GIS and remote sensing.

• Year 1: foundations in physical geography, environmental systems, basic data analysis and an introduction to field methods and practical laboratory techniques.
• Year 2: more specialist modules in river and coastal processes, climate systems, ecosystem function and environmental change. You will also take modules that build numerical skills, spatial analysis and research design, and you will undertake residential fieldwork.
• Placement year: a full academic-year professional placement in industry, government, NGOs or research organisations to apply your learning in a workplace and develop vocational experience.
• Final year: advanced optional modules and a substantial independent research project (dissertation) on a topic in physical geography or environmental science. Options often include advanced GIS/remote sensing, environmental modelling, hydrological science, applied geomorphology and climate impacts.

Teaching is a mix of lectures, practical laboratory sessions, computer laboratories, field courses and small-group seminars. Fieldwork is a core element of the programme and typically includes short residential trips within the UK and opportunities for international field experience where available.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have strong science or geography-related qualifications. Typical offers require high achievement in A levels (or equivalent) with at least one relevant science or maths subject such as Geography, Earth Sciences, Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics. Relevant level 3 qualifications, a strong IB score or equivalent international qualifications are accepted.

• GCSE-level passes in English and Mathematics are normally required or equivalent evidence of numeracy and communication competence.
• Mature applicants and those with substantial relevant work or voluntary experience are encouraged to apply; personal statements and references should demonstrate motivation and readiness for degree-level study.
• Selection may include consideration of personal statement, references and any relevant experience; subject-specific interviews are uncommon but may be used in some cases.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of careers where understanding environmental systems and practical analytical skills are valued. The placement year enhances employability by providing workplace experience, professional networks and often clearer career direction.

• Common graduate roles include environmental consultant, hydrologist, flood risk analyst, GIS or remote sensing analyst, conservation officer and environmental planner.
• Graduates also work in government agencies, non-governmental organisations, environmental monitoring and research institutions, and in the private sector supporting infrastructure, water and natural resource management.
• Many go on to postgraduate study or professional training in specialised areas such as hydroclimatology, environmental modelling, sustainable land management or environmental policy.

Why study at University of York

The University of York offers a Department of Environment and Geography with strong emphasis on combining rigorous physical science with applied environmental skills. Teaching integrates field-based learning with laboratory and computing resources so students gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge.

• Students benefit from well-equipped teaching laboratories and GIS/remote sensing facilities, plus structured support to secure and complete a year-long placement.
• York's location provides access to a variety of nearby landscapes—from rivers and lowland countryside to upland moors and the coastline—which supports diverse fieldwork opportunities.
• The department's active research groups in areas such as hydrology, climate and ecosystem science create opportunities for research-led teaching and for final-year projects linked to current scientific questions.