Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

The programme begins with a foundation year that develops study skills, introductory scientific and social science concepts, and numeracy and IT abilities needed for degree-level geography. After successful completion of the foundation year you progress to the undergraduate honours programme, where study is typically structured across core and optional modules over three years.

• Core themes: physical geography (geomorphology, climatology, hydrology), human geography (urban and regional studies, political and economic geography), and environmental management.
• Methodologies and skills: geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, spatial analysis, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and fieldwork techniques.
• Typical modules: introductory physical geography, human geography foundations, GIS and spatial data, environmental change and sustainability, research methods, statistics for geographers, and a final-year independent dissertation or research project.
• Fieldwork: fieldwork is an integral part of the programme and may include local and residential field trips to practice data collection, surveying and landscape interpretation.
• Options and specialisms: students can usually choose option modules to pursue interests such as climate change adaptation, urban planning and regeneration, conservation and biodiversity, or development and globalisation.

Entry requirements

The foundation route is aimed at applicants who do not yet meet the standard entry requirements for direct entry to the honours degree, including those with non-standard qualifications, mature applicants or students needing additional subject preparation. Applicants are assessed on their academic background and potential to succeed in higher education.

• Typical evidence requested includes completed secondary qualifications or equivalent (for example national or international school-leaving certificates), and, where relevant, a demonstrated interest in geography or related subjects.
• GCSE-level literacy and numeracy are usually expected; applicants without these may be asked to provide further evidence or take diagnostic tests.
• International applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school qualification and meet the university's English language requirements (examples might include an academic IELTS or equivalent qualification recognised by the university).
• Personal statements and references that indicate suitability for academic study and readiness for practical fieldwork strengthen an application. Interviews or admissions assessments may be used in some cases.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme leave with a combination of subject knowledge, practical field skills and transferable technical abilities such as GIS, data analysis and report writing. These skills are valued across public, private and third-sector employers.

• Typical career paths include environmental consultancy, urban and regional planning, GIS and spatial data analysis, conservation and biodiversity roles, water and coastal management, sustainability and environmental policy, and roles with local and national government.
• Some graduates pursue further study or research (MSc, MRes, or PhD) or professional training such as teacher training (PGCE) or specialist vocational qualifications in areas like environmental impact assessment.
• Employability support at the university helps with placements, internships and connections to industry partners, which many students use to gain practical experience before graduation.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes has a well-established geography provision with a strong emphasis on applied skills, field-based teaching and GIS facilities. The university combines practical laboratory and computing resources with opportunities for hands-on fieldwork and applied projects with external partners.

• Students benefit from smaller-group teaching, practical workshops and dedicated support for developing technical skills in GIS, remote sensing and quantitative analysis.
• The programme’s location close to Oxford provides access to a rich range of field sites, environmental organisations, and civic and cultural institutions, supporting placements and employer engagement.
• Brookes offers dedicated student support services for academic development, careers advice and pastoral care, helping foundation-year students transition smoothly into undergraduate study and preparing graduates for a range of careers in geography-related fields.