Geography and International Development with Overseas Experience

The BA Geography and International Development with Overseas Experience at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive understanding of the complex social, political, environmental, and economic issues shaping our world today. This innovative program combines rigorous academic training in geographical concepts with an in-depth exploration of international development challenges, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to sustainable solutions worldwide. Throughout the course, students will examine key topics such as human and physical geography, environmental change, global development policies, and the impacts of globalization, fostering a critical awareness of the interconnectedness of global systems.

One of the distinguishing features of this program is the inclusion of an overseas experience, designed to provide students with practical, real-world exposure to development work and geographical research. This may involve field trips, internships, or collaborative projects conducted in developing countries or local settings, enabling students to apply their academic learning in diverse environments. Such experiences not only enhance cultural understanding and adaptability but also boost employability by providing valuable insights into international development practices and challenges.

The course also emphasizes employability skills, including data analysis, research methodologies, project management, and effective communication. Students will learn through a combination of lectures, seminars, fieldwork, and independent study, supported by the university’s experienced academic staff. The modules are structured to progressively develop students’ analytical and research capabilities, culminating in a dissertation that allows for in-depth investigation of a specific geographical or development issue.

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in international development agencies, non-governmental organizations, environmental consultancy, urban planning, and research institutions, among others. They are also equipped with a critical perspective on development issues and a global outlook that is valuable in a wide range of careers requiring geographical expertise. The program’s focus on both theoretical understanding and practical application ensures students leave equipped to make meaningful contributions to addressing global challenges and promoting sustainable development across different contexts.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10560 Year (EEA)
• EUR 14600 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 with Overseas Experience program at the University of East Anglia is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the physical and human aspects of geography, alongside a focus on international development issues. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze spatial patterns, environmental changes, and developmental challenges faced by countries around the world. An integral part of the course is the overseas experience, which offers students the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in different cultural and geographical contexts, enhancing their practical understanding of development initiatives and environmental management in diverse settings. The program combines theoretical learning with practical fieldwork, enabling students to apply concepts learned in real-world scenarios. Courses cover a broad range of topics including urban and rural geography, climate change, sustainability, economics, and policy analysis related to international development. The overseas component typically involves a placement or field trip to a developing country, where students engage directly with local communities, NGOs, or government agencies to observe development programs in action. This experience is invaluable for those aiming to build careers in international development, environmental consultancy, or political geography. The program emphasizes research skills, critical thinking, and teamwork, preparing students for postgraduate study or employment in various sectors. The university's strong links with international organizations and NGOs also provide networking opportunities and internships to enhance employability. The program is often accredited by relevant professional bodies, ensuring it meets industry standards. Overall, this degree aims to produce graduates who are globally aware, environmentally responsible, and equipped with practical skills to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development initiatives worldwide.