Undergraduate course
BSc (Hons)
Geography with Foundation Year
Don't have the traditional entry requirements to start a degree? Get a solid grounding in the disciplines underpinning geography through an additional foundation year.
Our typical offer
32 UCAS points
Follow your passions
Our degrees are flexible, allowing you to move between BA and BSc degrees through your choice of human and physical geography modules.
Gain skills for diverse careers
Hands-on learning gives you specialist skills sought by a wide range of graduate employers.
Out in the field
From local fieldtrips in the stunning South West to exciting international destinations; learning in different environments takes place throughout your degree.
About
From working in the UK's first National Marine Park, contributing to the management of Dartmoor and understanding the forces shaping our coastal communities our students don't just work in unique places, they influence them too.
Dr Simon Dickinson
Lecturer in Geohazards and Risk
What is a foundation year?
A Foundation year provides an additional entry-level year for you to gain further knowledge of a subject before starting a full degree course.
On completing the Foundation year successfully, you progress automatically onto the full degree course, which is usually three years. You don’t need to apply for a place on the full degree course.
Further information on
°µÍø½âÃÜ courses with Foundation years
.
A full list of potential progressions routes is listed under course details
Why choose a degree with a foundation year?
- To build your confidence to study at university level.
- To gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete a full degree.
- Your qualifications don't meet entry requirements for a three-year degree.
- You want to study a new subject that your previous qualifications or experience haven’t prepared you for.
- You may have thought university wasn’t an available option for you.
- You want to join a university course that is needed for the career you’d like.
This course is for you if...
you're passionate to learn about and tackle pressing global challenges
you want the flexibility to choose from a range of exciting human and physical modules
you're interested in gaining hands-on fieldwork experience
you want to develop high-demand specialist geographical and transferable skills
Details
Foundation Year 0
In your foundation year you will learn the skills necessary to be successful at University and immerse yourself in a broad range of applications for your chosen subject. This will include learning about the fundamentals of the physical environment and build towards an end of year project to showcase your skills for sustainable development. Fieldwork and laboratory work will form a key part of the training.
Core modules
FYM001
Becoming a Successful Global Scientist
30 credits
This module will introduce learners to some of the major global environmental challenges facing society today and how science has a role in tackling them. It will help enable learners to adapt to the Higher Education Learning Environment by the development of a more independent, reflective and self-managed approach to study, learning, scientific writing, time management and mathematical skills for the study of science.
50% Coursework
50% Tests
FYM002
Essentials for Physical and Environmental Sciences
30 credits
This module introduces learners to the study of physical and environmental science. It covers the very small scale from atoms to large scale global systems. This module teaches the fundamental concepts and analysis methods for chemical, environmental and earth system sciences. No prior knowledge is assumed. Emphasis is placed on building understanding of core principles and confidence in essential practical techniques.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
FYM004
Our Changing Planet - Chemical and Geo-environmental Processes
30 credits
This module builds on the core ideas introduced in its partner module in the first semester (FYM002), introducing a range of additional physical, earth and environmental concepts. There will be a strong emphasis on applying scientific principles to a wide range of topics in earth, environmental and chemical sciences.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
FYM006
Sustainable Development Project
30 credits
This module will introduce the learners to group work. As part of a group, they will investigate one of the global environmental challenges facing society today. Each global environmental challenge will be investigated through its impact(s) in and around SW England. The learners will be guided in their investigation and present their findings at an end of year conference. This will be followed by an individual reflection upon the group work process.
50% Practicals
50% Tests
Year 1
In your first year, modules will introduce you to the latest developments in human and physical geography, and you’ll benefit from small group tutorials. Undertake fieldwork and develop your practical and applied skills through lab work.
Core modules
GEES1101
Culture, Society and Space
20 credits
What do human geographers do, and how does human geography help us understand the world? This module tackles this question by examining the important role human geographers plays in confronting and resolving global societal challenges. Through a mix of practical and conceptual training, students will investigate societal issues using cutting edge technologies, such as virtual reality, urban fieldwork and GIS mapping.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
GEES1102
People and Place
20 credits
Places matter! Places locate us on the planet; they are where we live our lives; and they are imagined, used and contested in different ways. Drawing on local fieldwork and a fascinating range of lecture topics, learn why places are important to people and the study of geography. Studying local, national and international issues, you will develop observational skills and new ways of thinking about the world around you.
50% Coursework
50% Remotely delivered assessments
GEES1103
Glaciers, Deserts and Climate Change
20 credits
Deserts are expanding. The Arctic is melting. The 21st Century is a time of extraordinary transition. Here we show you why. We journey back in time to explore how and why climate has changed over thousands of years. We examine why cold places have such remarkable features and what they can tell us. We delve into the drivers of our driest environments. We ask what agency humans have had in these places and since when.
50% Remotely delivered assessments
50% Tests
GEES1104
Water, Landscapes and Environmental Management
20 credits
Explore the dynamic world of physical geography through a series of environmental themes centred on the role of water as an agent of landscape change, and a vital natural resource. Learn how to collect and analyse real-world data by combining fieldwork, lab techniques, and spatial analysis to build your quantitative skills. This hands-on module enables you to connect theory to the environment we live in.
50% Practicals
50% Tests
GEES1105
Sustainable Futures
20 credits
Explore critical global sustainability challenges and solutions at local, national and international scales. Learn about core sustainability principles and their application to energy, biodiversity, land management, marine, travel, and personal behaviour. Sustainability sector experts share their experience, and students develop knowledge and teamwork skills through a tutor-supported group research project.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
GEES1106
Our Digital Planet
20 credits
Explore the biggest challenges facing our planet today and discover how data analysis and visualisation can drive real-world solutions. You will be introduced to data analysis, GIS, and cartographic techniques through engaging, hands-on examples. You will develop essential skills while tackling pressing issues. You will receive personalised support from your tutor to help you excel at university-level study.
50% Coursework
50% Tests
GEES2000
Placement Preparation
0 credits
This module explores the role of placements, work experience and volunteering for enhancing employability whilst at university and as a future graduate. It considers placement options (types, durations) and supports students in developing applications and preparing for interviews.
100% Assessments
GEES2001
Designing Research for a Changing Planet
Further your understanding of the ways of thinking and practicing characteristic of your degree and apply new skills through the development of an independent research project. You'll develop key employability skills and tackle team challenges based on real workplace scenarios. Be empowered to take part in original research with one-to-one advice on a topic of your choice to prepare for your dissertation.
GEES2002
Research Design in Action: Fieldwork for a Changing Planet
Enhance your subject understanding by putting your research skills into action and immersing yourself in fieldwork. Explore real-world challenges in dynamic landscapes and engage with diverse communities in a range of exciting destinations. Work in a team to design and lead your own project, gaining practical experience that underpins your degree programme and advances your professional development.
GEES2111
Principles and Professional Skills in Geography
What does it mean to be a geographer? In this module you’ll explore the different ways that geographers investigate the world and learn about the ideas that shape geographical research. With a strong focus on practical skills, problem-solving and professional reporting you’ll explore how your learning connects to your own research activities on fieldwork and in your dissertation, and to your future career path.
Optional modules
GEES2101
Nature, Country and Society
20 credits
What does nature really mean - and who gets to decide? This thought-provoking module invites you to explore how different societies understand and interact with the natural world. From global case studies to everyday experiences, you’ll uncover how ideas of 'nature' and 'the rural' are shaped by history, politics, and identity - and why these ideas matter in today’s world.
100% Coursework
GEES2102
Transport, Travel and Mobilities
20 credits
The world is on the move! This brings huge benefit but also presents big challenges. You’ll identify where people and goods go, when and how they move, and why these things matter. You’ll examine what people do and feel while travelling, and why understanding this can promote sustainable mobility. You’ll also consider the mobility of social groups, and why this affects what we think about different cultures and places.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
GEES2103
Urban Planning, Design and Security
20 credits
Gain an understanding about how planning, design and security play a crucial part in shaping the geographies of urban places. Appreciate the evolution and practice of urban planning, design and security across a range of global contexts, including contemporary challenges in the built environment related to housing demand, heritage conservation, place-making and liveability.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
GEES2104
Quaternary to Anthropocene
20 credits
Discover how and when our planet moved from a state where natural processes controlled ecological conditions and the climatic system, to the human-dominated environment we inhabit (the 'Anthropocene'). You will learn about these changes from local to global scales, and develop new skills in generating, interpreting and presenting long-term ecological data to identify and quantify changes in the biosphere.
50% Coursework
50% Remotely delivered assessments
GEES2105
Catchment and River Processes
20 credits
Explore the science behind how rivers and their catchments co-function. You will develop an understanding of how they respond to important issues such as climate change and resource management. The fieldwork and workshops have been co-designed with professional bodies so that you will develop professional practical expertise in how to address serious river catchment issues such as erosion and flooding. .
100% Coursework
GEES2108
Geographical Information Systems
20 credits
Dive into the exciting world of GIS with this hands-on module. You'll master the theory, methods, and spatial literacy needed to analyse real-world geographic data. Through interactive lectures and practical sessions, you'll explore geospatial data handling and cutting-edge spatial analysis and visualisation techniques. Develop valuable skills through project work, gaining the experience to tackle real-world challenges.
50% Coursework
50% Tests
GEES2309
Weather, Climate and Meteorology
20 credits
What drives our weather and shapes our climate? Dive into the physics of the atmosphere, from thermodynamics to global circulation. You will analyse real meteorological and satellite data to understand weather systems and forecasting. By mastering these physical principles, you will uncover the scientific evidence behind climate variability and the critical role of meteorology in a sustainable future.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
Year 2
In your second year, you’ll deepen your knowledge with a wide range of optional modules in human and physical geography and core modules in theories, practical skills and careers development. You’ll also have the chance to take field courses in overseas destinations (recent courses have run in Morocco, USA, Iceland, Australia and Sweden).
Optional placement year
Choose an optional year working in industry to improve your knowledge of applied geography and gain invaluable work experience. Our employability service will help you find a placement from our extensive network across all sectors.
Final year
You’ll write a dissertation on any aspect of human or physical geography. There’s a wide range of optional modules in human or physical geography, plus the option of taking a work experience module to prepare you for your first job.
Progress to the pathway of your choice
This foundation year forms the first stage of your degree.
Although it does not lead to a separate qualification, it is designed to prepare you with the skills and knowledge needed to progress confidently onto Year 1 of one of our full BSc (Hons) degrees:
The differences between BA and BSc Geography
Geography explores the relationships between people, places and the environment, focusing on contemporary global challenges such as sustainability and climate change.
Our BA (Hons) Geography focuses on human geography and the impacts of people on societies, mobilities and environmental governance. The BSc (Hons) Geography degree uses predominantly scientific techniques to explore the natural world.
Our degrees are flexible, allowing you to move between BA and BSc pathways through our choice of human and physical geography modules.
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This BSc (Hons) Geography degree has been independently evaluated for its quality and the skills provided to graduates.
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
Fieldwork to exciting destinations
We believe you learn best from direct experience of the world's natural and cultural environments, and that's why we offer a fieldwork programme that enables you to gain experience of hands-on research, investigating critical contemporary social and environmental issues in a wide variety of environments.
From local study trips in and around °µÍø½âÃÜ, Dartmoor and the Tamar Valley to fascinating destinations around the world – previous trips have included Australia, Iceland and the Pacific Northwest of the USA – fieldtrips help you to develop skills, confidence and expertise in geographical research methods.
Frontiers in fieldwork
In your final year you have the opportunity to embark on a novel international field trip to explore real-world challenges working with professional scientists and local communities.
For the academic year 2025/2026, fieldwork will be based in Namibia, South West Africa, working with scientists from the Gobabeb Research Institute and local communities. The fieldtrip, focused on issues related to the Sustainable Development Goals, will take place in the spring of 2026.
Field trips have been really important to my degree. It’s good to get that hands-on experience, from looking at soil erosion in Southam to working with turtle conservation volunteers in Sri Lanka.
Darcy
Current student
Current student
There were many highlights. Travelling away for the first year was the first time I'd felt challenged as a geographer. The legendary trip to Iceland. And the camaraderie that developed with the academic staff and technical team.
Simon, BSc (Hons) Geography graduate
Facilities to support your learning
As a °µÍø½âÃÜ geographer, you will have access to a range of
cutting-edge resources and facilities
to support your learning in the field and in the laboratory.
You might find yourself identifying microfossils, pollen and other materials, such as microplastics in our 5G interactive microscope laboratory; analysing a wide range of digital data, using a variety of specialist software programmes; or developing skills in remote sensing and Geographical Information Science (GIS).
Our exchange programme gives you the opportunity to study in Europe, Canada, Australia, USA and other locations abroad.
"The independence and confidence gained from the exchange was very beneficial. Not many 19-year-olds travel 4,500 miles independently and live in a foreign country for four months."
Alice Tustain took part in an international exchange with Montana State University, USA.
Learn from experts
You will learn from expert, accessible, and supportive staff who are skilled researchers in their field
Our research is focused on environment-society interactions, environmental processes and change, and their governance through regulation, management policies and stakeholder involvement.
Individual staff engage with a wide range of other departments in universities and research institutes from around the world.
Professor Anne Mather
Professor in Geomorphology
Professor Ian Bailey
Professor of Environmental Politics
Professor Will Blake
Professor of Catchment Science
Enrich your studies – join the Geography Society
As one of the University's biggest non-sport societies, GeogSoc is open to everyone no matter what you are studying. By joining GeogSoc and attending our socials you will make friends and memories.
For our members studying geography, this is also a great way to get to know your course mates outside the classroom as well as being the first to know about the geography related opportunities that we get offered.
Life in °µÍø½âÃÜ
°µÍø½âÃÜ's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what °µÍø½âÃÜ and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
Geography is such a diverse subject; it allows you to develop a variety of skills, whether it's out in the field or on a computer.
Amy Khan
BSc (Hons) Geography graduate, working as an environmental consultant specialising in land contamination and brownfield regeneration.
BSc (Hons) Geography graduate, working as an environmental consultant specialising in land contamination and brownfield regeneration.
Studying at °µÍø½âÃÜ significantly shaped my career aspirations. Before attending university, I was unsure of my career path and where Geography might take me.
Sophie Tucker
BA (Hons) Geography with International Relations graduate, working for °µÍø½âÃÜ City Council as a Senior Support and Research Assistant
BA (Hons) Geography with International Relations graduate, working for °µÍø½âÃÜ City Council as a Senior Support and Research Assistant
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I’m always impressed with the professionalism of the University and how it seeks to ensure its work is relevant and impactful. It helps connect you to the real world beyond the science.
Tom Dauben
BSc (Hons) Geography graduate, working as a Flood & Coastal Risk Management Senior Advisor.
BSc (Hons) Geography graduate, working as a Flood & Coastal Risk Management Senior Advisor.
What can I do with a geography degree?
Find out what you need to consider when choosing a career or considering further study after studying a geography degree.
Discover your career options
Discover your career options
Geographers’ wide range of skills in science and social science means they have a broad variety of career paths open to them. Studying geography develops your analytical and communication skills and your ability to evaluate data, all strengths that are in high demand in the graduate jobs market.
Many of our graduates work in areas such as environmental consultancy, flood risk, environmental planning, geospatial science, education, commerce, transport and the public sectors. Geography students tend to be open-minded and interested in the world around them, qualities which are attractive to employers and an advantage if working for an international organisation. You'll also have many transferable skills, attracting employers from the business, law and finance sectors.
Approximately 70% of graduate employers do not specify that you must have studied a particular subject to work for them but value highly skills such as strategic planning, resilience under pressure, creative problem-solving and commercial awareness, just some of the key skills you can develop during your course. You could use your degree to access work in a multitude of sectors or industries.
Where will your work placement take you...?
Whether embarking on our final year work-based learning option or taking advantage of a full placement year, working with an employer will provide you with the chance to develop skills and refine your career ambitions. Placements take place all over the UK and indeed the world and employers have included:
Environment Agency
Dartmoor Zoo
Royal Geographical Society
UK Hydrographic Office
Fugro
Amey
Dartmoor Zoo
Royal Geographical Society
UK Hydrographic Office
Fugro
Amey
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in
Full-time study
£9,790 per year
£9,790 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
£815 per 10 credits
£815 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
The Government has announced that tuition fees from Academic Year 28/29 onwards will be subject to automatic annual inflationary increases, which we believe will be at a similar rate to the recent annual increases to fees, and may continue to be inflation based. The University may increase annual tuition fees in line with the Student Contract and the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government from time to time.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies and we advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
£19,200 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,955
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,465
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Additional costs
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to field-based activities or equipment requirements.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at °µÍø½âÃÜ, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
32 UCAS points
32 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
GCSE
English and mathematics at grade C/4 or above.
A levels
32 32 points from a minimum of 2 A levels, including at least one pass in a science subject (Biology/Human Biology, Maths/Use of Maths/Further Maths, Statistics, Physics, Electronics, Chemistry, Environmental Science/Studies, Applied Science, Geography, Geology, Design and Technology, Psychology, Computer Science/Computer Programming, Information Technology/Information and Communication Technology).
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
DMM. We welcome this qualification however please contact admissions@plymouth.ac.uk, stating explicitly the full list of modules within your qualification.
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
All Access courses
Pass Access course (preferably from a science/combined studies/natural sciences/nursing subject) including GCSE English and mathematics grade C/4 or above, or equivalent. For candidates that do not have a science, electrical or technology background please contact: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk for further advice.
T level
Pass. Any pathways related to Science/Engineering/Health.
International Baccalaureate
24 overall to include grade 3 in one Higher Level science subject – English and mathematics must be included.
Extended entry requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
F803
F803
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
4 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
°µÍø½âÃÜ
°µÍø½âÃÜ
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
32 UCAS points
32 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
English language requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
F803
F803
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
4 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
°µÍø½âÃÜ
°µÍø½âÃÜ
Other routes to this course
If you do not have the required qualifications for this course, you may be able to gain them through the
°µÍø½âÃÜ International College (UPIC)
.
Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day
Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the °µÍø½âÃÜ.
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The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.