University of Leicester

What you'll study

The programme builds core knowledge in both physical and human geography while allowing you to specialise through optional modules. Early years emphasise foundational topics such as climatology, geomorphology, human geography, and research methods. Practical skills are taught throughout, including geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, quantitative data analysis and qualitative field techniques.

• Core modules: introductory physical geography (climate and weather systems), landscape and geomorphic processes, human geography theories, and research design and statistics.
• Skills and methods: applied GIS and spatial analysis, remote sensing, field methods, data visualisation and both quantitative and qualitative techniques.
• Options and specialisms: environmental change and sustainability, urban and regional studies, population and migration, development geography, conservation and ecosystem management, climate change impacts, and energy and resource governance.
• Fieldwork and projects: hands-on field courses within the UK with opportunities for residential fieldwork, and an independent final-year dissertation or project supported by staff supervision.

The course structure typically mixes core compulsory modules with a wide range of optional modules so you can tailor the degree to interests such as environmental science, planning, or geospatial technologies.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally require a recognised secondary-school qualification (for example A-levels, Scottish Highers, Irish Leaving Certificate or an international equivalent) with competitive grades in relevant subjects. Typical successful applicants have strong grades across a range of subjects; prior study in geography, environmental science, mathematics or a science-related subject is advantageous but not always essential. Mature students and those with relevant work experience are considered.

International applicants need an appropriate English-language qualification equivalent to UK undergraduate entry; details and accepted qualifications are published by the university. Applicants holding vocational qualifications (such as BTEC) are considered on the strength of their profile and modules undertaken.

Career prospects

Graduates leave equipped for a wide range of roles in the public, private and third sectors. Common career destinations include environmental consultancy, urban and regional planning, GIS and remote sensing roles, conservation and biodiversity management, environmental policy and regulation, and roles in local and national government. Many graduates also move into data analysis, sustainability and corporate responsibility roles, teaching, or continue to postgraduate study (MSc or PhD) in specialist areas.

The course places emphasis on employability through practical projects, consultancy-style assessments and opportunities to work with external organisations, helping students build a professional portfolio and transferable skills valued by employers.

Why study at University of Leicester

The School of Geography at the University of Leicester is research-active and offers staff expertise across human–environment interactions, spatial analysis and environmental change. Students benefit from well-equipped GIS and computing laboratories, specialist software, and strong support for fieldwork.

Leicester’s central location in the UK provides easy access to a variety of urban and rural field sites, and the university supports outreach and placements with local authorities, NGOs and industry partners. The department also offers dedicated academic and careers support to help you prepare for employment or further study after graduation.