University of Hull

What you'll study

This BSc combines core physical and human geography subjects with applied skills in geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing and quantitative analysis. In the early years you build a foundation in topics such as geomorphology, climatology, human geography, research methods and academic skills. Practical skills are emphasised throughout: mapping, field surveying, data handling and spatial analysis.

In later years you choose from specialist modules reflecting the department’s strengths, for example: climate change and adaptation, fluvial processes and hydrology, coastal environments and management, urban geography and planning, environmental management and conservation, and applied GIS and remote sensing. The programme culminates in an independent research project or dissertation, supported by staff supervision and often linked to fieldwork.

• Core techniques: GIS, remote sensing, statistical and spatial analysis, field survey methods
• Physical geography: geomorphology, hydrology, coastal systems, climatology
• Human geography: urban and regional studies, political and economic geography, social and cultural landscapes
• Research project: independent study leading to a substantive dissertation or applied consultancy project
• Assessment methods: a mix of exams, coursework, practical reports, presentations and the final dissertation
• Fieldwork: local day trips and at least one residential field course to practise data collection and applied techniques

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school qualification equivalent to UK A‑levels, such as BTEC, International Baccalaureate or another recognised qualification. Typical entrants will have good passes in two or three subjects, and evidence of ability in numeracy and report writing is helpful. Many applicants also present GCSEs (or equivalents) including English and mathematics.

The programme is open to mature students and those with relevant work or voluntary experience; Access to Higher Education and equivalent qualifications are considered. International students should meet the University’s English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of Geography at Hull move into a wide range of professional roles where spatial, environmental and analytical skills are valued. Common career paths include environmental and sustainability consultancy, town and transport planning, GIS and remote sensing specialist roles, environmental monitoring and research, conservation and countryside management, water resources and flood risk roles, and local or national government policy posts.

Other destinations include postgraduate study (for example MSc courses in environment, planning or GIS), teaching (following the appropriate teacher training route), and positions in charities, international development or private sector organisations that require data analysis, mapping and project management skills.

Why study at University of Hull

The University of Hull offers a geography programme with strong practical emphasis and established links to regional environmental agencies and industry partners. Students benefit from dedicated GIS and computing facilities, laboratory resources for physical geography, and motivated academic staff active in applied research areas such as coastal processes, environmental change and urban studies.

Fieldwork is a core part of the learning experience, with opportunities to work in the Humber estuary region and other contrasting environments. The department supports employability through project work, guest lectures from practitioners and careers guidance, helping graduates to develop the technical and transferable skills employers seek.