Geography and International Development

Explore the dynamic field of Geography and International Development at the University of East Anglia. This undergraduate program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions between human societies and the physical environment, equipping them with practical skills and critical thinking necessary to address global challenges. Over the course of the degree, students will investigate how geographic processes shape our world, from urban development and environmental change to global inequalities and sustainable development. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with innovative research and real-world applications, allowing students to analyze spatial data, conduct fieldwork, and engage with contemporary issues through multidisciplinary perspectives.

The program offers a broad range of modules including physical geography, human geography, environmental management, development studies, and geopolitics. Students will have opportunities to specialize in areas such as climate change, urban planning, resource management, or international development policy, tailoring their education to their career aspirations. The university's strong emphasis on experiential learning includes field trips, lab work, and placements, providing practical experience that enhances employability. Graduates from this program are well-prepared for careers in environmental consultancy, international NGOs, government agencies, research institutions, and further academic study.

The university's supportive academic staff are experts in their respective fields, committed to mentoring students and fostering a vibrant academic community. State-of-the-art facilities and a collaborative learning environment ensure students have access to the latest technologies and resources. With a focus on global perspectives and sustainable solutions, the Geography and International Development program at UEA empowers students to contribute meaningfully to addressing some of the most pressing issues facing our world today.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10560 Year (EEA)
• EUR 17480 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

In the first year we introduce and get you to critically engage with contemporary debates and issues in international development. You will examine changing approaches to the study of geography and key principles of geography as they apply to international development, for example colonialism and post colonialism. You will take the core modules: Introduction to Development Studies alongside Evidence in Development, and then Principles of Human Geography and Introduction to Natural Resources and Development. You will also have the opportunity to study two other subject areas, from: Social Anthropology or Economics.

In the second year you will select and continue with the Human and Social Geography subject area, studying the two modules Geographies of Development, and People and Place. You will get the opportunity to develop skills in research methods, either focusing on quantitative methods or qualitative and anthropological methods. You will choose a module that examines a geographical region and its development in depth, such as Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia or Latin America. You can also continue with one of the other disciplinary subject areas if you wish (eg economics, natural resources or social anthropology) or can select from a choice of issue-related modules, for example Education and Development or Gender and Development. There is also an opportunity to study a module from a different School, for example a foreign language.

In the third and final year you will write a dissertation (research project) on a topic related to the geography of international development which is of personal interest, supervised by a member of staff who has expertise in the area of research. If you decide to take the Overseas Experience course option, you will take up a work placement overseas during the autumn semester, for example working on social development projects for community, public and non-governmental organisations, or on HIV in Uganda; or you could study at an overseas university, for example in South Africa. You can also opt to do a work placement in the UK.

If you decide to stay at the University, while doing your dissertation you will also be able to study a module such as Wars, Humanitarian Crises and Aid, Gender and Development, Education and Development, or a module in another School (for example a foreign language, or the Human Geography of Climate Change in the School of Environmental Sciences). In the spring semester you will choose options such as Development in Practice (to develop specialist practical and professional work skills), Contemporary Issues in Resource Development and Conservation, Public Policy and Welfare, Globalisation and Economic Development, or one of the regional modules.

Teaching, Assessment and Feedback

Our degree programmes maximise the range of modules available to students with flexibility being a key element of the modular undergraduate teaching structure. With the subject of International Development tending to be relatively new to the majority of our students, the first semester is designed to provide general background information through the module Introduction to Development Studies which follows historical and contemporary themes linked to global change: environmental, political, social and economic.

Designed to inspire as well as to educate, we aim to enhance and inform your interest in geography and development studies by providing skills, knowledge, understanding and practical experience. Teaching methods incorporate lectures, seminars, and e-learning sessions and student participation is actively encouraged through the use of discussion, debate, video, role-playing and problem-solving techniques. Assessment takes place throughout the period of study, with the majority of modules being assessed by a combination of course/project work, group assignments, seminar presentations and examination.

Your independent research skills will be developed throughout your degree, culminating in a final year project (Dissertation). All students are assigned an academic adviser to oversee their progress and to guide them through their wide range of module choices.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5 TOEFL iBT® test : 88

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• A Level: ABB
• International Baccalaureate: 32
• Scottish Highers: AABBB
• Scottish Advanced Highers: ABB
• Irish Leaving Certificate: AABBBB
• Access Course: Pass with Distinction in 36 credits at level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at level 3
• HND: Please contact dev.ug.admiss@uea.ac.uk for further information
• European Baccalaureate: 75%

Candidates will be expected to have 3 A levels (see above for typical offer).
Candidates with equivalent qualifications to the A level requirement are encouraged to apply (eg International Baccalaureate; Access to Higher Education certificate). International candidates are also actively encouraged to access the University's International section of our website.
Students should also have 5 GCSEs grade C and above, including English and Mathematics.

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

• IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in all components)
• TOEFL: Internet-based score of 88 overall (minimum 18 in the Listening and Writing components; 19 in the Reading component; and 21 in the Speaking component)
• PTE: 62 overall with minimum 55 in all components

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Intakes

The course begins in September each year.

GCSE Offer

Students should also have 5 GCSEs grade C and above, including English and Mathematics.

Assessment

Key factors used to assess an application include:

• Past and future achievement in examinations
• Academic interest in the subject
• Personal interests and extra-curricular activities
• The reference

All applications are considered on their own individual merits.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of East Anglia.

The Geography and International Development undergraduate program at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive education that combines physical and human geography with a focus on global development issues. The course is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the spatial aspects of societal and environmental change, fostering critical thinking and research skills essential for addressing contemporary global challenges. Throughout the program, students explore diverse topics such as climate change, urban development, resource management, social inequalities, and policy analysis, enabling them to develop a multidisciplinary perspective. The curriculum includes a mix of lectures, seminars, fieldwork, and independent study, encouraging active learning and practical experience. Students have opportunities for overseas field trips and placements, which enhance their understanding of real-world issues and improve employability. The program also emphasizes research skills, data analysis, and the use of geographic information systems (GIS) technology. Graduates from the program are well-prepared for careers in environmental management, policy-making, international development organizations, consultancy, and further academic research. The university provides strong support networks, including access to research centers and modules that promote sustainability and global citizenship. With an emphasis on both theoretical foundations and practical applications, the Geography and International Development program aims to produce graduates who are informed, adaptable, and capable of making meaningful contributions to solving global problems.