Geography

Geography is the study of the earth's surface, with particular emphasis on the relationships between people and their environment. Few other subjects cover such a diversity of phenomena, combining elements of the natural sciences, the social sciences and the humanities.

Why Aberdeen?

• Aberdeen is a great place to study Geography. The department ranks highly in student satisfaction surveys and the region's spectacular mountain and coastal areas provide perfect field sites for the study of geography. We have recently introduced a new geography curriculum designed to provide students with key skills and knowledge required by employers.
• The curriculum enables students to study across the full range of the discipline, or to specialise in aspects of environmental, human, or physical geography, according to their preferences.
• Many courses in physical geography, including specialist Honours options, draw directly on the staff's own research into hydrology, glaciology and past environmental change.
• Many courses in human geography, including specialist Honours options, draw directly on the staff's own research into development, contemporary environmental issues and urban-rural change.

Programmes

You may also be interested in

Geographical Information Systems

Study Abroad

Study abroad information

 

The opportunity to take Enhanced Study options as part of your degree and participate in co-curricular activities. See www.abdn.ac.uk/thedifference for more information.

First Year

Two core courses offer a broad introduction to the study of geography at an advanced level. Lectures cover key topics such as climate change, the behaviour of ice sheets, plate tectonics, natural hazards, water resources, ecological change, rural and urban development and poverty and sustainability. Lectures are supported by a programme of practical work that includes spreadsheet skills for data analysis, field sampling techniques, PowerPoint presentation skills and training in the writing and referencing techniques required for university-level study. We also encourage students to choose 'outside' courses – for example, in Geology, Archaeology, International Relations or Environmental Science – that complement their geographical interests.

Second Year

Four option courses are offered, of which students must choose at least three: Physical Environments; Perspectives in Human Geography; Mapping & Monitoring the Environment; Environment & Society.  All students must also take Skills & Techniques in Geosciences, which includes a residential field trip.

Third & Fourth Year (Honours)

Core courses on Approaches to Geography, Research Design & Methods and Geographical Issues examine the subject's history, its key perspectives and techniques, and its contemporary relevance. Although compulsory, all of these courses offer a choice of lectures and coursework assessments that cover the full range of geography, so students are free to pursue their favourite aspects of the subject. Option courses at level 3 provide further training in practical aspects of physical and human geography (e.g., use of remote sensing and geographical information systems; statistical analysis of sediments, vegetation or census data) and associated concepts and topics (e.g., environmental change; places, regions and globalisation; environment and conservation). There is also a choice of international field trips.   To complete their studies, Honours students produce a dissertation – an advanced, independent research project on a topic of their choice.

Teaching and Assessment

Courses are taught by a combination of lectures, workgroups and practical tasks tailored to the subject matter. For instance, lectures on research methods and group project planning meetings prepare students for field trips; workshops on advanced research techniques and one-on-one discussions with staff help students to design and carry out their dissertation. The assessment for most courses combines exams with coursework, such as one or more of an essay, an oral presentation, a project report or a 'real-world' simulation exercise.

Careers

Studying Geography develops a range of transferable skills such as: critical thinking, research design and data analysis skills, proficiency in IT, and the ability to communicate effectively in various formats. Geographers also acquire specialist knowledge of cultural, political, economic and environmental issues and the ability to evaluate these from different perspectives – local, national and international. Employers value these attributes, and Aberdeen graduates enter a wide range of careers including: environmental management, conservation and planning, government agencies, business and commerce, and work involving technical skills such as surveying, GIS and remote sensing.

Finding your direction

There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success.  The Careers Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us – from first to final year – and beyond.

• More information on employability at the University of Aberdeen.
• More information on the Careers Service.
• More information on careers prospects and employability with a degree in Geography.

Entrance Requirements

SQA Highers - BBBB*
A Levels - BBB*
IB - 30 points, 5 at HL*
ILC - BBBB*
*Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/Science subjects.

Advanced Entry - Advanced Highers ABB, A Levels ABB or IB 34 points (6 at HL) including Geography at A grade.

For further details of entrance requirements click here

Please click on the links below to find out more information on funding in your area.

• Scotland and EU (Excluding England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• Rest of UK (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• International
• Scholarships

Related Links

• Scholarships
• Entrance Scholarships
• Funding Database
• England Wales and Northern Ireland Finance Guide