Keele University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced human geography theory with practical training in sustainability research methods. You study contemporary debates about socio-environmental change, urban and regional processes, political ecology, and policy responses to climate and resource challenges, alongside hands-on spatial and qualitative analysis skills.

• Core research methods — training in qualitative methods, quantitative analysis and mixed-methods design to prepare you to plan and carry out independent research.
• Spatial analysis and GIS — applied workshops in GIS and spatial data handling to support mapping and geospatial research in human geography.
• Environment, policy and governance — modules exploring sustainability policy, environmental governance and community responses to environmental change.
• Urban, regional and rural dynamics — study of social and economic processes shaping settlements, land use and regional development in the context of sustainability.
• Advanced thematic options — choices may include political ecology, environmental justice, climate adaptation, energy transitions, and wellbeing and place.
• Research dissertation — a substantial independent research project supervised by academic staff, allowing you to develop and demonstrate specialist expertise in a chosen topic.

Teaching is a mix of seminars, workshops, lab sessions (including GIS labs), and one-to-one supervision for the dissertation. Assessment typically combines essays, project reports, presentations, skills-based assignments and the final thesis.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree in geography, environmental studies, social sciences or a related subject. Applicants with relevant professional experience or a 2:2 degree may be considered on an individual basis. You should demonstrate preparedness for postgraduate research, including some prior exposure to social science methods or fieldwork where possible.

International applicants must meet Keele's English language requirements; evidence of competence through an approved English qualification is required where English is not your first language. Other supporting materials such as a personal statement, references and a writing sample or research proposal may be requested to assess suitability.

Career prospects

Graduates leave equipped for a range of careers that bridge social science and sustainability practice. Common career destinations include:

• Environment and sustainability roles in local and national government (policy, planning, climate action teams)
• Sustainability and environmental consultancy, including community engagement and impact assessment
• Non-governmental organisations and charities working on conservation, social justice or resilience
• Research positions and continuing to doctoral study (PhD) in human geography, environmental social science or related fields
• Urban and regional planning support, spatial data analysis and GIS roles in both public and private sectors

The programme’s emphasis on research design and transferable analytical skills also supports careers in evidence-based advocacy, monitoring and evaluation, and further academic work.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers an interdisciplinary environment where human geography and sustainability are taught alongside strong social science and environmental research expertise. You will be taught by research-active staff with strengths in social-environmental change, political ecology, urban studies and spatial analysis, and you will benefit from small-group teaching and tailored supervision for your dissertation.

Keele’s campus provides access to dedicated facilities such as GIS and computing labs, social science research support, and opportunities to engage with local and regional partners on applied projects. The department emphasises research-led teaching and supports students seeking placements, fieldwork opportunities and preparation for doctoral study or professional roles in sustainability and planning.