Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This BSc programme covers core areas of physical and human geography while developing practical skills in GIS, remote sensing and quantitative methods. You will study how landscapes, coasts and cities evolve; how human activities shape environments; and how to analyse spatial data to address environmental and social challenges.

• Core themes: physical processes (climate, hydrology, geomorphology), human geography (urban, economic and social geography), environmental management and sustainability.
• Technical skills: GIS and cartography, remote sensing, spatial analysis, statistics and field data collection techniques.
• Fieldwork and applied work: repeated field-based modules make use of local coastal, estuarine and urban sites for hands-on measurement, surveying and sampling. You will undertake practical exercises, group projects and independent research.
• Independent project: the final-year dissertation or applied project lets you investigate a chosen topic in depth, often using GIS or primary field data.
• Optional elements: many students can take an optional professional placement year or project-based modules linking to local organisations, subject to availability.

Typical year structure

Years 1 and 2 combine core modules and skills training with smaller option units to let you specialise gradually. The final year focuses on advanced modules and your independent research project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed a recognised secondary qualification or equivalent. Typical UK entry routes include A-levels (or equivalent), and BTEC Extended Diplomas are usually accepted. GCSE-level English and Mathematics (or equivalent) are typically required. Bournemouth University also considers applicants with relevant vocational experience, mature applicants and international qualifications.

Selection is on the basis of academic achievement and potential; applicants may be asked for a personal statement outlining interest in geography, any relevant experience (such as fieldwork, voluntary work or technical skills) and references. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a broad range of careers that make use of spatial, environmental and analytical skills. Typical roles include:

• environmental or planning consultancy
• GIS and geospatial analysis roles (technician, analyst)
• local government and urban planning support
• coastal and environmental management, conservation officer roles
• risk, resilience and hazard assessment positions
• further study and research, or teacher training for those moving into education

The programme’s practical and technical emphasis is designed to prepare graduates for both professional employment and postgraduate study in geography, environmental science and related disciplines.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University combines a practice-oriented curriculum with strong links to regional employers and applied research. Geography students benefit from frequent fieldwork on nearby coasts, estuaries and urban sites, and from access to dedicated computer and GIS labs for spatial analysis.

The university places emphasis on work-readiness: modules include applied projects, opportunities for professional placements and support from the careers service to develop CVs, portfolios and interview skills. The course’s balance of technical training, field experience and theory is well suited to students aiming for hands-on roles in environmental management, planning and geospatial industries.