School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences

BSc (Hons) Environmental Geography

UCAS tariff 104 - 112 Contextual offers
A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes personal circumstances that may affect grades into account.
UCAS course code F811
Institution code P60
Duration

3 years

(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location Plymouth
Register for open day
Apply at UCAS.com

This degree explores the relationships between people, places and the environment and how past, present and future environmental challenges can be tackled at various spatial scales and in a variety of global contexts. Hence, our Environmental Geography degree provides students with the knowledge and skills to understand and tackle the biggest global challenges facing the planet and humanity; and our modules do this by engaging with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Key features
  • Your degree pathway is flexible, as you can choose both physical geography (GGP) and human geography (GGH) modules, alongside modules from Environmental Science (ENVS) and Environmental Management and Sustainability (ENVM).
  • Teaching is innovative and student-centred. You will learn through lectures, seminars, practicals, national and/or international residential fieldwork, tutorials and one-to-one dissertation support.
  • Learn to use Geographical Information Systems to analyse and communicate complex spatial data.
  • Take the opportunity to spend your second year studying abroad in Europe, Canada, Australia, USA or elsewhere through our bilateral and ISEP exchange programme.
  • Our focus on employability and applied geography supports students to pursue a range of career opportunities.
  • Choose an optional work placement programme providing skills, experience and contacts in a wide range of employment sectors.
  • Benefit from our unique location, in the heart of the historical city of Plymouth, bordered by Dartmoor National Park as well as the Tamar Valley and South Hams Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Devon and Cornwall have glorious beaches, coasts, rivers and estuaries.
  • A diverse and respectful place in which to work and study is fundamental to everything we do. Find out more about equality, diversity and inclusion in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Science .

Course details

  • Year 1

  • In your first year, modules will introduce you to the latest developments in human, physical and environmental geography. Undertake fieldwork and develop your practical and applied skills through lab work. You’ll also take part in small group tutorials.

    Core modules

    ENVM1001
    Environment and Society 20 credits

    This module examines the role of human society, organisations and individuals in environmental management and sustainability, through case studies in the local area. We will examine the concepts of environmental narratives, environmental consumption and behaviours, agency and change leadership and show that environmental management can be addressed on scales from the global to the local and from the present to the future.

    50% Coursework

    50% Practicals

    GGH1203
    Culture, Society and Space 20 credits

    Here we continue our overview of contemporary human geography. The module is again structured around key themes that are prominent in geographical thinking about how society is organised spatially. Lectures provide a framework for understanding these themes, and through fieldwork and follow-up practical classes, we explore local examples using quantitative and qualitative data, and statistical analysis.

    50% Coursework

    50% Practicals

    GGH1204
    People and Place 20 credits

    Here we begin our overview of contemporary human geography. The module is structured around key themes that are prominent in geographical thinking about how society is organised spatially. Lectures provide a framework for understanding these themes, and through fieldwork and follow-up practical classes, we explore examples of their local manifestation and how these are presented geographically.

    50% Coursework

    50% Remotely delivered assessments

    GGP1206
    Environment and Climate 20 credits

    Here we continue our overview of contemporary physical geography (which begins in GGP1207). The module is structured around key themes that are prominent in geographical thinking about environment al processes and change. Lectures provide a framework for understanding these themes, and we explore in more detail local examples in laboratory and practical sessions.

    50% Remotely delivered assessments

    50% Tests

    GGP1208
    Water, Landscape and Environmental Management 20 credits

    Here we begin our overview of contemporary physical geography. The module is structured around key themes that are prominent in geographical thinking about the environment. Lectures provide a framework for understanding these themes, and through fieldwork and supporting laboratory classes we explore examples of their local manifestation using quantitative data, graphic and spatial statistical analysis.

    50% Practicals

    50% Tests

    GGX1207
    Our Digital Planet 20 credits

    This module explores the challenges and most pressing issues facing our planet today. Students will discover the role of geographic data analyses and visualisation techniques to provide solutions. Data analysis, GIS and cartographic techniques will be introduced using real-world examples. Students will meet with a personal tutor regularly, to support them through tutorials as they adjust to university-level study.

    50% Coursework

    50% Practicals

  • Year 2

  • In your second year, you’ll deepen your knowledge with a wide range of optional modules in human, physical and environmental geography and core modules in theories, practical skills and careers development. You’ll also have the chance to take overseas field courses (recent courses have run in Morocco, USA, Iceland, Australia and Sweden).

    Core modules

    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

    ENVS2004
    Environmental Issues and Communication 20 credits

    Through immersion in contemporary environmental issues, this module develops the knowledge and skills necessary to locate, analyse, evaluate and communicate scientific information in a range of contexts and to a range of audiences. Students develop their professional skills, as well as the skills to engage with a wide range of stakeholders and decision makers, from scientific experts to the general public.

    100% Coursework

    GGX2201
    Principles and Applications of Geography 1 20 credits

    In this module students learn about and critically reflect upon various approaches to the production of geographical knowledge, and the different ways and contexts in which this knowledge is applied. The module develops students' awareness of the place and importance of geographical research in preparation for dissertation study and fieldwork modules, and identifies links between geographical research and employability.

    70% Coursework

    30% Practicals

    GGX2202
    Principles and Applications of Geography 2 20 credits

    Students learn about, practise and critically reflect upon different research methods and techniques in the production of geographical knowledge. The module refines students' awareness of the place and importance of geographical research in preparation for dissertation study and fieldwork modules, and its links to employability. Tutorials are provided for additional, small group discussion of issues arising.

    60% Coursework

    40% Practicals

    GGX2204
    Fieldwork in Geography 20 credits

    This module enhances students knowledge and understanding of geographical patterns and processes in the field environment, using appropriate research techniques. Parallel field trips are run to overseas destinations, to a comparable academic format.

    50% Coursework

    50% Practicals

    Optional modules

    ENVS2003
    Environmental Management and Sustainability 20 credits

    The module covers areas of knowledge essential for all environmental science graduates: ecological economics, life supporting resources and environmental law.

    60% Coursework

    40% Practicals

    ENVS2006
    Natural Ecosystems and Their Conservation 20 credits

    This module introduces students to natural ecosystems, including (but not limited to) biological adaptation, diversity, conservation, restoration and management.

    70% Remotely delivered assessments

    30% Tests

    GGH2206
    Nature, Country and Society 20 credits

    This module explores the relationship of human societies to nature and the country. You will examine different understandings of nature and rurality, and how these affect the ways in which different cultures approach environmental problems. We will consider how the countryside is changing and the implications for people and nature. The module will also ask you to think about your own lives in relation to these ideas.

    100% Coursework

    GGP2207
    Catchment to Coast 20 credits

    Practically all human-environment interactions take place within river catchments and the coastal zone. To address key environmental challenges of the 21st century, such as climate change and sustainable resource management, we need to understand how these integrated systems function. This module provides the process knowledge required to contribute to global and local debates, and includes field and laboratory work.

    100% Coursework

    GGX2203A
    Geographical Information Systems 20 credits

    Module provides grounding in theory and practical techniques of GIS. Lectures are on theory, methods and spatial literacy. Practical work covers stages of handling geospatial data, construction of GIS models and automation, provides exposure to a range of techniques in spatial analysis and visualisation, and gives context and experience to spatial literacy concepts. Knowledge and skills are developed in project work.

    50% Coursework

    50% Tests

  • 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.

    Core modules

    GEES3000
    Placement 0 credits

    This module is a placement position, where a student undertakes a programme of work within a host company or organisation. The placement occurs within a yearlong period, meeting minimum duration requirements. Students experience applying their degree, experience professional practice, develop enhanced subject-related knowledge and skills, and undergo personal-professional development.

    100% Coursework

  • Final year

  • In your final year, you’ll write a dissertation on any aspect of environmental geography. There’s a wide range of optional modules in human, physical, and environmental geography, plus the option of taking a work experience module to prepare you for your first job.

    Core modules

    GGX3200
    Dissertation in Geography 40 credits

    Students undertake a major piece of independent, investigative research into a geographical issue of their choice and report on this in a dissertation of ca.12,000 words. The report should establish the wider academic context for the investigation and demonstrate originality and the effective application of intellectual, subject-specific and key skills.

    100% Coursework

    Optional modules

    GEES3001
    Work Based Learning in Geography and Sustainability 20 credits

    This module provides an opportunity for students to experience professional practice in environmental management and sustainability. Students will undertake a minimum of 100 hours service with a professional organisation (private, public or third sector). You will investigate the organisation's practice in environmental management and sustainability and further develop professional attitudes and behaviours.

    70% Coursework

    30% Practicals

    GGH3207
    Sustainable Cities 20 credits

    The aim of the module is to explore the challenges of sustainable urban growth in contemporary cities, in the UK and internationally. A key focus is understanding how spatial planning and urban governance can tackle sustainable development and climate change challenges in an increasingly urban world. Using geographical concepts, these issues will be explored through case studies and good practice from a range of cities.

    100% Coursework

    GGH3210
    Environmental Politics and Governance 20 credits

    This module explores the main concepts and forces shaping environmental politics and governance. It examines how science, ethics, interests and power influence environmental debate and decision-making, using case studies of climate change, energy, deforestation, air pollution, marine protection and Antarctica to interrogate how governments and other actors have strived to address global to local environmental challenges.

    100% Coursework

    GGP3209
    Dryland Change 20 credits

    Drylands comprise 47% of the world’s land surface and are home to > 2 billion people. They are highly susceptible to environmental change (human, climate, tectonic), and preserve archives of that change over human to Quaternary timescales. This module builds expertise in reading the geomorphological record of drylands (process and landform), and examines the challenges of living sustainably with these dynamic landscapes.

    50% Coursework

    50% Remotely delivered assessments

    GGP3211
    Long-term Environmental Change 20 credits

    Society is dependent on the environment for sustaining life as we currently know it. This module takes a series of environmental challenges and places them in a long-term perspective to place current disruptions in a longer-term context. The module focusses on how we can learn lessons from the past to manage our current and future environment.

    50% Coursework

    50% Practicals

    GGP3212
    Contemporary Arctic and Alpine Challenges 20 credits

    High latitudes and altitudes are warming faster than many other regions of the world. This module takes a contemporary, and forward looking, perspective on the grand challenges that impact the resilience of these landscapes and societies in present and future climates and their associated hazards. Students will learn practical skills to quantify environmental pressures and critically evaluate mitigation strategies

    60% Coursework

    40% Practicals

    GGX3204
    Big Data & Spatial Analytics 20 credits

    This module provides an overview of advanced spatial analysis concepts and facilitates practice of data processing and management skills. Data manipulation through programming is introduced and the concept of big data is presented. Themes and practice around the acquisition, processing, analysis, visualisation and application of big data are explored, drawing on examples from across the natural and social sciences.

    Explore this module

    100% Coursework

    ENVS3012
    The Environmental Professional 20 credits

    A series of real-world scenarios, which typical professionals in the environmental sector are exposed to, will be considered in an objective, scientific and interdisciplinary manner, taking into account a range of stakeholders. The material and professional development will be supported with guest speakers, seminar and workshops.

    60% Coursework

    40% Practicals

    ENVS3013
    Global Environmental Solutions 20 credits

    In this module students will take an interdisciplinary solution-based approach to contemporary global environmental issues employing both ecological economics principles and environmental law.

    50% Coursework

    50% Practicals

    ENVS3015
    Biological Conservation 20 credits

    This module examines the pursuit of biological conservation. Drawing on a wide range of case study material, in temperate and tropical, terrestrial and aqueous environments, the module examines the drivers and rationales for biological conservation, and the role of stakeholders, policies, legislation and practices in achieving it.

    100% Coursework

    ENVS3016
    Climate Change Action 20 credits

    The module introduces climate change adaptation and mitigation. Biotic and technological mitigation will be explored and evaluated in the context of different geographical settings.

    50% Coursework

    50% Remotely delivered assessments

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.

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff

104 - 112

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

A level
Normal minimum entry requirements are 104 - 112 UCAS points, a typical offer is 112 points from a minimum of 2 A levels. To also including GCSE English and Mathematics grade C /4 or above or equivalent.
BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
DMM. The full list of modules should be stated and it would be expected to include a range of topics complementary to geography. Individual advice can be provided by the admissions tutor. To also include GCSE English and Mathematics grade C /4 or above or equivalent.
Access to Higher Education at level 3
Pass a named Access to HE Diploma (e.g. science, humanities, combined), (including GCSE English and Mathematics grade C /4 or above or equivalent) with at least 33 credits at merit.
Welsh Baccalaureate
Happy to consider Welsh Baccalaureate in combination with other qualifications.
Scottish Qualifications Authority
104-112 UCAS points from Scottish Highers or Advanced Highers.
Irish Leaving Certificate
104 to 112 UCAS points – English and Maths considered within.
International Baccalaureate
26-27 points overall. English and Mathematics must be included.
Progression from foundation year geography
Students who pass the Plymouth foundation year geography programme are guaranteed progression to a choice of one of the BSc/BA (Hons) geography programmes. Detailed advice will be provided by the Admissions Tutor.

Fees, costs and funding
New student 2024-2025 2025-2026 *
Home £9,250 £9,535
International £18,100 £18,650
Part time (Home) £770 £795
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

* UK Government announcement on tuition fees

On Monday 4 November 2024, the UK Government announced a proposal to increase tuition fees for home undergraduate students from £9,250 to £9,535 per annum from September 2025 onwards. The University of Plymouth intends to apply this new fee from September 2025. However, implementation of this increase will be subject to parliamentary procedure. This change applies to new students starting their studies in September 2025. For current and returning students, the University is reviewing fees and will update you as soon as possible.

Postgraduate scholarships for international students

We offer several scholarships for international students who wish to study postgraduate taught (PGT) degree programmes.

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Additional fieldwork and equipment costs .

Tuition fees for optional placement years

The fee for all undergraduate students completing any part of their placement year in the UK in 2024/2025 is £1,850.
The fee for all undergraduate students completing their whole placement year outside the UK in 2024/2025 is £1,385.
 Learn more about placement year tuition fees

How to apply
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code.
To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Assessment

  • 6Practical: 12%

  • .Exams: 9%

  • bCoursework: 79%

Fieldwork

Fieldwork is an essential part of studying geography. Our Royal Geographical Society accreditation means that all of our degree courses include learning through practical experience from the field.
Fieldwork may be subject to change due to staffing and external factors.

Discover facilities in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences

As student in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences you will have access to a range of cutting-edge resources and facilities.
These will support your learning in the field and in the laboratory – whether in traditional chemistry lab or a high-performance computing room. Many are solely for the use of our students and researchers and you will also have access to LABplus Resource Centre and the Marine Station.
Students using a petrographic microscope

Why study geography?

Celebrating 50 years of geography degrees at Plymouth

Oscar, BA (Hons) Geography student, shares his experience of a course field trip in Torquay

Careers with geography

Studying geography develops your analytical and communication skills and your ability to evaluate data, all strengths that are in demand in the graduate jobs market. Like other science graduates, you have a broad range of career paths open to you, though you may be particularly drawn to areas such as environmental planning, health, politics education, commerce, industry, transport, tourism, public sectors and international relations.
Geography 50

Professor Ian Bailey is an expert on national climate change acts and their contribution to accelerating action on climate change. He combines his research and teaching on climate and environmental politics in modules on sustainable futures and environmental politics and governance.

Centre for Research in Environment and Society (CeRES)

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.
Soil erosion. Will Blake. 

Academic staff