Environmental Geography and Climate Change

Environmental Geography and Climate Change at the University of East Anglia offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to understanding the complex relationships between human activity and the environment. This degree programme is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze environmental challenges, assess the impacts of climate change, and develop sustainable solutions. Throughout the course, students will explore key areas such as physical geography, climatology, human geography, environmental policy, and sustainable development. The programme combines theoretical learning with practical applications, including fieldwork, laboratory studies, and data analysis, to prepare graduates for careers in environmental consultancy, policy-making, research, and advocacy. Emphasizing critical thinking and problem-solving, the programme encourages students to examine real-world issues like climate resilience, environmental management, and the social dimensions of climate change. Students will have opportunities to specialise in areas such as carbon management, environmental conservation, and geographic information systems (GIS), thereby gaining valuable technical skills. The university’s excellent research facilities and dedicated academic staff provide a supportive learning environment, fostering innovative approaches to tackling environmental problems. With increasing global focus on climate action and environmental sustainability, graduates of this programme will be well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to addressing climate-related challenges at local, national, and international levels. The programme tends to attract students passionate about making a difference through informed and sustainable practices, preparing them for the dynamic and vital field of environmental geography and climate change. Overall, the degree aims to produce environmentally conscious professionals capable of applying scientific knowledge to real-world issues and promoting positive change in society.

Detailed Course Facts

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

UK/EU £9,000; International £14,900

• English

Course Content

Year 1

In the first year you will take a range of modules to introduce you to a variety of environmental and development issues. You will also gain essential scientific, numerical and analytical skills that will be built upon in the following years.

Year 2

You will continue to build upon the theme of natural and sustainable resources for development with the compulsory modules. You will also be able to choose modules from the substantial range that is available enabling you to specialise in one particular area or maintain a broad spectrum of interests.

Some options outside of the School can be taken, allowing you to explore your other interests, for example, a foreign language, politics or a biological subject.

Year 3

You will undertake an independent project in your final year and have the opportunity to spend a semester abroad, whilst doing this.

You will also continue to be able to choose from a range of optional modules on your return to UEA to complement this time away.

Study Abroad

All students have the opportunity to spend the autumn semester of the final year studying or working in the developing world, whilst simultaneously undertaking an independent research project. Study destinations include Fiji, Mauritius, Vietnam, India, Venezuela, Peru, Nicaragua, Mexico, Uganda, South Africa, Lebanon and Egypt.

Your time abroad will be spent studying in a related department on an established course of study at an institution recommended by UEA.

Alternatively you can gain first-hand work experience in the developing world by opting for our overseas work experience module.

You will be able to benefit from existing links within the School of International Development to arrange placements in teaching, conservation or community care in places such as Peru, Togo, Mongolia, Thailand, Nepal and Kenya.

If overseas experience isnt for you, the independent research project can be completed at UEA during the final year.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 TOEFL iBT® test : 78

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

Requirements

• A Level: AAB
• International Baccalaureate: 33 (incl 3 HL subjects at grade 6)
• Scottish Highers: AAABB
• Scottish Advanced Highers: AAB
• Irish Leaving Certificate: AAAAB
• Access Course: See below

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. overall (minimum 5.5 in any component)
• TOEFL: Internet-based score of 78 overall (minimum 20 in Speaking component, 17 in Writing and Listening components and 18 in Reading components.
• PTE: 55 overall (minimum 51 in any component).

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.

Interviews

The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Special Entry Requirements

Applicants are asked to have at least one science based A2-level or equivalent. Acceptable science subjects include: Biology, Chemistry, Economics, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics.
General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.

Alternative Qualifications

We encourage you to apply if you have alternative qualifications equivalent to our stated entry requirement. Please contact us for further information.
Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 45 credits at Level 3, including 12 Level 3 Science credits.

GCSE Offer

Students are required to have Mathematics and English at minimum of Grade C or above at GCSE Level.

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.

Funding

The University offers around £1 million of Scholarships each year to support International students in their studies. Scholarships are normally awarded to students on the basis of academic merit and are usually for the duration of the period of study.

The MSc Environmental Geography and Climate Change at the University of East Anglia offers students an in-depth understanding of the complex interactions between human activity and natural environmental processes. This programme is designed to equip graduates with the essential skills to analyse environmental challenges, develop sustainable solutions, and contribute effectively to policy making and environmental management. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical approaches, including fieldwork, data analysis, and the use of modern geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies.

Students will explore a range of topics such as climate science, environmental policy, renewable energy, conservation, and resilience to climate change impacts. The programme emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating physical geography, social sciences, and environmental economics to provide a comprehensive perspective on climate-related issues. Throughout the course, students undertake research projects that often involve collaboration with industry partners, environmental organizations, or governmental agencies, preparing them for professional careers in environmental consultancy, policy development, or further academic research.

The University of East Anglia boasts excellent research facilities, including dedicated labs and GIS suites, which support practical learning and research activities. The faculty comprises leading experts in climate science, environmental geography, and sustainability studies, who guide students through their academic journey and supervise dissertation projects. Additionally, the programme benefits from strong links with regional and national agencies, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and real-world problem-solving experiences.

Graduates of the MSc in Environmental Geography and Climate Change are well-equipped to work in diverse sectors, including environmental consultancy firms, governmental bodies, NGOs, and international organizations focused on climate policy and environmental sustainability. The programme also serves as a solid foundation for those wishing to pursue doctoral research in climate science or environmental geography. Overall, this programme prepares students to become informed, skilled professionals capable of addressing the urgent environmental challenges faced by society today, with a commitment to building a more sustainable and resilient future.