BA (Hons) Geography with a Placement Year
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- L704
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Our world is always changing – now more than ever; our BA Geography degree focuses on the human impact of this changing world: how we understand it and live within it.
At UEA you learn from world-leading researchers, take fieldtrips to Devon, the Lake District and Spain, develop specialist analysis skills, master geographical information systems software, work with real-world experts and organisations, and most importantly graduate with the skills to make a difference.
With lots of flexibility in module choice, our students explore some of humanity’s most pressing problems, from climate change to biodiversity loss; from urbanisation to influencing public policy.
Graduate with highly valued transferable skills, from critical thinking, data analysis, fieldwork and spatial visualisation to writing policy briefs and real-world application of social theories of change. Your ability to work across the social, human and physical sciences is in demand across private and public sector graduate jobs where you'll provide real world solutions to today’s challenges.
Real-world learning and impacts are at the heart of our BA Geography degree. In classrooms, on field courses, and in meetings with real-world companies you'll develop a broad understanding of geographical issues, theories and ways to apply them. In Year 1 you'll learn about the most pressing geographical, environmental and sustainability problems; in Years 2 and 4 you'll choose your own degree focus, with specialisms including environment, energy and society; political and economic geography; and cultural and historical geography.
You’ll enhance your studies and employability by spending your third year on an industrial work placement, giving you hands-on experience whilst developing your skills and knowledge.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
Your Placement Year will ensure you graduate with relevant work experience. Not only will you see first-hand how your chosen field operates, but you’ll boost your chances of progressing within that sector through valuable contacts and insight.
Your studies will benefit too as theory is transformed into reality – under the real pressures of time and money.
You’ll be expected to seek your own work placement. In the first two weeks of your second year, you’ll write a CV and apply to a range of organisations, which can include companies, government organisations or charities. Not only will this ensure that you work within your preferred field, but it will also provide you with the essential job-hunting skills required for after graduation. We will, of course, offer our guidance and support while you’re identifying and negotiating placement opportunities.
During this year, you’ll be supported by an industrial supervisor and a mentor from the university. You and your industrial supervisor will feed back during the placement to ensure that it is progressing well, and your UEA mentor will visit you during the year.
Please note that we cannot guarantee any student a work placement as this decision rests with potential employers.
If you are unable to secure a work placement by the end of your second year, you’ll have the option to transfer onto the equivalent degree programme without a Year in Industry.
Accreditations
This course is accredited by the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG). Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in geographical knowledge and skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of the world beyond higher education. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.
Study and Modules
Structure
This four-year course covers a broad range of topics in geography. In your first year you’ll build a foundation of essential knowledge and skills whilst being inspired to broaden your horizons about the world around you. You’ll then have more flexibility in your second and third years. The course culminates in an independent research project. There are opportunities to participate in field courses in all three years of your degree at UEA, from Devon to the Lake District and Scotland to Spain.
Your first year is designed to give you a broad understanding of the challenges facing contemporary geographers and expand your understanding of what Geography is. This is underpinned by an introduction to fundamental research techniques, the methods geographers use to analyse and understand the world, and is consolidated with a residential field course.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Teaching
You’ll be taught by leading geographers and environmental scientists, and award-winning teachers. The degree is modular with a standard pattern of three modules per semester. Most modules include one or two lectures a week with a practical or seminar session where you deepen your understanding. In these, you'll work in small groups to solve problems, discuss and debate real world issues, use digital tools, collect data and conduct experiments in the laboratory and get out in the field. Beyond contact hours, you work independently to support your learning through reading and assessments.
Year 1 is mostly compulsory modules with lectures, practicals, seminars and field trips to develop your skills and knowledge ready for Year 2 and 3 module choices. You'll choose from one of two modules in the spring term. The first year includes a compulsory (funded) week-long residential field course to Devon in the Spring Break, so you can put your learning into practice and develop your Geography community.
Assessment
We use varied assessment methods across the different modules, contributing in various proportions towards your overall module mark. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose across all the years of the degree.
Coursework assessment methods may include essays, projects, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, seminars, presentations, posters and blogs. We use ‘formative’ assessment in each module to provide feedback before submitting your ‘summative’ assessment.
All module credits contribute equally towards the mark for the year and Year 2 and 4 are weighted 40:60 to determine your final mark. Your placement year is assessed on a pass-fail basis by reflecting on a project portfolio of the skills and knowledge you have developed and does not count numerically into your final mark.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll gain valuable technical expertise by choosing a research skills module such as GIS Skills, and craft your degree to your interests by choosing physical and human geography modules from a range of options including topics such as earth surface processes, population ecology and management, climate change science and policy, global health and development and global tectonics with field course options within the UK.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 60, Max Credits: 80)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In Year 2 you craft your degree to your interests, but these must include one skills module, one physical geography module and one human geography module to ensure you continue to develop your geographical research skills and experience different aspects of Geography. Optional UK-based field courses are offered over Easter.
Assessment
We use varied assessment methods across the different modules, contributing in various proportions towards your overall module mark. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose across all the years of the degree.
Coursework assessment methods may include essays, projects, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, seminars, presentations, posters and blogs. We use ‘formative’ assessment in each module to provide feedback before submitting your ‘summative’ assessment.
All module credits contribute equally towards the mark for the year and Year 2 and 4 are weighted 40:60 to determine your final mark. Your placement year is assessed on a pass-fail basis by reflecting on a project portfolio of the skills and knowledge you have developed and does not count numerically into your final mark.
Structure
You’ll spend your third year on a work placement in a commercial, policy or charitable organisation, lasting from 9 to 14 months, gaining relevant experience and developing your skills and knowledge. We have established links throughout the UK and beyond, and we’ll help you in identifying and competing for appropriate positions.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Year 3 is your placement year. You'll learn-by-doing in your choice of placement. You'll be supported by an academic mentor to reflect on the skills, knowledge and professionalism you develop during placement.
Assessment
We use varied assessment methods across the different modules, contributing in various proportions towards your overall module mark. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose across all the years of the degree.
Coursework assessment methods may include essays, projects, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, seminars, presentations, posters and blogs. We use ‘formative’ assessment in each module to provide feedback before submitting your ‘summative’ assessment.
All module credits contribute equally towards the mark for the year and Year 2 and 4 are weighted 40:60 to determine your final mark. Your placement year is assessed on a pass-fail basis by reflecting on a project portfolio of the skills and knowledge you have developed and does not count numerically into your final mark.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll spend a substantial amount of time on your Independent Project, which accounts for a third of the final year assessment. It’s your opportunity to put everything you’ve learnt throughout your degree into practice, as well as a chance to specialise in a topic that really fascinates you with the supervision of a world-class expert. There are also further optional modules to study, covering topics such as human geography in the Anthropocene, urban futures, biodiversity, conservation and human society, energy and people, environmental literature, migration, wars and humanitarian crises, environmental consultancy, natural resources and environmental economics. Your options could also include a field course – in previous years students have gone to Spain and Kenya.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 60, Max Credits: 80)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Teaching
Teaching strategies remain consistent across the three years and the format depends on module choice. You’ll be taught by leading geographers and environmental scientists, and award-winning teachers who create engaging and creative learning environments. You’ll have around 15-18 hours contact time a week, in a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, laboratory sessions, field trips and residential field courses.
Student-led learning comes in various forms too, from peer-to-peer learning in group projects, to doing presentations in class. You’ll work in small groups to solve problems, debate important topics, learn to critique and defend theories in geography, develop ideas and create new solutions to real-world problems.
Independent study
You’ll spend time carrying out independent study, researching in UEA’s state-of-the-art library, writing essays or carrying out practical work or projects.
This course will give you an excellent balance of independent thinking and study skills, helping you grow into a self-motivated learner, an expert researcher and an analytical thinker. You’ll develop accuracy and precision in your written work through evidence-based analysis. You’ll become well versed in time management and organisation through self-directed study. Throughout your degree, you’ll be given guidance on your work and constructive feedback to help you improve.
Academic support
To make sure you get the most from your studies and help you reach your full potential, one of our staff will be assigned as your personal Advisor throughout your studies. Our Learning Enhancement team, based in the Student Support Service, are also available to help in the following areas:
- Study skills (including reading, note-taking and presentation skills)
- Writing skills (including punctuation and grammatical accuracy)
- Academic writing (including how to reference)
- Research skills (including how to use the library)
- Critical thinking and understanding arguments
- Creative thinking and presentation of knowledge
- Revision, assessment and examination skills (including time management)
If you have additional needs due to disabilities such as sensory impairment or learning difficulties such as dyslexia, please talk to our Student Support Services about how we can help.
Assessment
At the end of each module, you’ll be assessed based on coursework and, for some modules, project and examination results. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose across all years of the degree.
For each module, you will have the chance to test your skills with one or two pieces of practice or ‘formative’ assessment.
That could be a coursework essay, project or an exam. You’ll get feedback on your practice assignments from your tutors, helping you improve your work before your final ‘summative’ assessment. We encourage you to discuss your feedback with your teachers to help you put it into practice.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- ABB. A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted. Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer alongside an A in the EPQ.
- T Levels
- Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. Acceptable subjects are: Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction or Science.
- BTEC
- DDM. Excludes Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration. See below for accepted subjects and combinations.
- Contextual Offer
A Level – BBC. A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted. Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element.
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma – DMM
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Scottish Highers
- AAABB. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BCC. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3.
- International Baccalaureate
- 32 points.
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
-
- Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Hub. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required, the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
Additional Information or Requirements
Extended Diploma: DDM.
Diploma: DD plus B at A-Level.
Extended Certificate: D plus BB at A-Level.
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BA Geography and International Development with a Foundation Year.
We welcome applications from students with non-traditional academic backgrounds. If you have been out of study for the last three years and you do not have the entry grades for our three-year degree, we will consider your educational and employment history, along with your personal statement and reference to gain a holistic view of your suitability for the course. You will still need to meet our GCSE English Language and Mathematics requirements.
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
INTO University of East Anglia
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:
International Foundation in Pharmacy Health and Life Science
International Foundation in Mathematics and Actuarial Sciences
International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering
International Foundation in Business Economics Society and Culture
International Foundation in Humanities and Law
Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Field courses are available throughout your course. We fully subsidise the cost of one residential field course. The others are 50% subsidised and cost £250–£1,000 depending on destination and duration. These costs cover accommodation, meals and transport.
Details for individual field courses are given on the information page for the relevant module.
You are eligible for reduced fees during your Placement Year. Further details are available on our Tuition Fees webpages.
There may be extra costs related to items such as travel and accommodation during your year in industry, which will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
BA Geography graduates go into a wide range of careers and have a high rate of employment. You could work for national and international agencies, in the private or public sector, in the areas of environmental and resource management, climate change, economic and social development, planning, or policy making.
Right now, there’s demand for graduates to work in climate change, energy systems, and land or water resource management. Or you might choose to pursue a higher degree, such as an MA/MSc or PhD. During your studies, you’ll meet potential employers during internships and our annual Careers Fair, which attracts a wide range of employers interested in graduates with geographical skills.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Environmental consultant
- Planning officer
- Environmental analyst
- Renewable energy adviser
- Graduate sustainability consultant
- Graduate carbon management consultant
Discover more on our Careers webpages.