Environmental and Geographical Sciences

The Bachelor of Environmental and Geographical Sciences at the University of Cape Town offers students an in-depth understanding of the complex relationships between humans and their natural environment. This interdisciplinary programme equips students with essential knowledge and skills to address contemporary environmental challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, resource management, and sustainable development. Throughout the course, students explore the physical and biological processes shaping the Earth's landscapes and ecosystems, as well as the social, economic, and political factors influencing environmental policies and practices. The curriculum combines core foundations in geography, environmental science, and related fields with practical training in research, data analysis, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Students have opportunities to engage in fieldwork, internships, and collaborative projects with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and industry partners, fostering real-world experience and community engagement. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical considerations vital for implementing sustainable solutions in diverse contexts. Graduates of this programme are prepared for careers in environmental consultancy, spatial planning, conservation, resource management, policy development, and further academic research. By fostering a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues within a geographical framework, this degree aims to produce competent professionals committed to promoting sustainable development and environmental stewardship locally and globally.

Examination is by dissertation/thesis alone. A Master’s dissertation should not exceed 50,000 words in length. A Doctoral thesis should not exceed 80,000 words in length. 

• EGS4011S ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT  
• EGS4016F CAPITAL, POLITICS AND NATURE  
• EGS4021X HONOURS PROJECT IN ENVIRONMENTAL AND GEOGRAPHICAL  
• EGS4034F GLOBALISATION AND THE ENVIRONMENT  
• EGS4035S RISE, FALL AND RECONSTRUCTION OF THE SA CITY  
• EGS4038F CLIMATE CHANGE AND PREDICTABILITY  
• EGS4039F URBAN FOOD SECURITY  
• EGS4040F SPECIAL TOPIC IN HUMAN/ENVIRONMENT INTERACTIONS  
• EGS4041F APPROACHES AND ISSUES IN PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL  
• EGS4043S LIVING WITH GLOBAL CHANGE  
• EGS4047S ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND PRACTICE  
• EGS4048S ALTERNATIVE ECONOMIES 

• Applicants must have the required academic background and submit an acceptable research proposal for which supervision is available. Research degrees are encouraged where the field of research is clearly defined; the student wishes to concentrate on a specific research topic and has demonstrated the ability to do so. 
• Certified copies of official academic transcripts in ENGLISH (full transcripts for each tertiary institution attended)
• Certified copies of degree certificates in ENGLISH (for each tertiary institution attended where applicable)
• Applicants from universities situated in non-English speaking countries: TOEFL/IELTS certificate OR letter from previous tertiary institution stating “English as medium of instruction” for the programme
• Curriculum vitae (include work experience)
• A recent score (obtained within 3 - 5 years before application for admission) of at least 570 (paper-based test) or 230 (computer-based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• A recent overall band score of 7.0 (with no individual element of the test scoring below 6.0) on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• OR, noting that this may only be written at certain designated venues within South Africa, a score of at least 65% on the university's Placement Test in English for Educational Purposes (PTEEP).

Scholarships

• International & refugee scholarships
• Merit awards

The Bachelor of Environmental and Geographical Sciences at the University of Cape Town offers a comprehensive approach to understanding the Earth's physical environment and the interactions within it. This undergraduate program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex environmental and geographical challenges faced by society today. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, enabling students to develop competencies in various fields such as environmental management, spatial analysis, eco-system dynamics, climate change, and sustainable development. Students will engage with a diverse range of topics, including physical geography, human-environment interactions, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), remote sensing, environmental policy, and resource management.

The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, integrating concepts from geology, ecology, biology, and social sciences to provide a holistic understanding of environmental issues. Students have opportunities for fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and research projects that enhance their practical skills and analytical abilities. The program prepares graduates for careers in environmental consultancy, spatial planning, conservation, government agencies, research institutions, and non-governmental organizations. It also provides a solid foundation for further postgraduate study in specialized areas of environmental and geographical sciences.

The University of Cape Town supports students through experienced faculty, modern facilities, and partnerships with industry and research organizations. Students are encouraged to participate in international exchanges, internships, and community engagement projects to broaden their perspectives and gain real-world experience. The program typically takes three years to complete for full-time students, with options for specialization in areas such as urban geography, environmental management, or climate change. Graduates of the program are well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development initiatives locally and globally, addressing critical environmental challenges through innovative solutions informed by scientific research and geographical insights. The program's commitment to academic excellence and societal relevance makes it an attractive choice for students passionate about understanding and protecting the planet.