Geography

Programme description:
The BSc Geography at Queen’s University Belfast offers students a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the Earth's physical and human systems. This degree programme is designed to equip students with a broad range of skills, including spatial analysis, environmental understanding, and a critical perspective on societal development and management. Throughout the course, students will engage with core topics such as climate change, urban and regional planning, GIS and remote sensing, environmental sustainability, and human geography. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, enabling learners to analyze real-world issues and develop innovative solutions.

Students have the opportunity to undertake fieldwork both locally and internationally, gaining valuable hands-on experience in diverse settings. The programme also emphasizes the importance of research methods, data collection, and critical thinking, preparing graduates for careers in environmental consultancy, urban planning, governmental agencies, and further academic research. Additionally, students can tailor their degree through optional modules, allowing specialization in areas like geospatial technologies, environmental management, or societal development.

The university’s strong links with industry and government provide students with networking opportunities, internships, and collaborative projects that enhance employability. By the end of the programme, graduates will have developed a detailed understanding of geographical concepts, analytical skills, and the ability to communicate complex spatial information effectively. The BSc Geography at Queen’s University Belfast is ideal for individuals passionate about understanding and addressing the challenges facing our planet and societies, contributing to sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and informed policy making.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 4160 Year (EEA)
• EUR 13380 Year (Non-EEA)

England, Scotland and Wales £9,000; EU £3,575; International: £11,500

• English

Course Content

Our degree programme provides fundamental skills and knowledge while allowing you to tailor your degree according to your interests and ambitions. The programme has three levels, outlined below:

Year 1

You will take a foundation year of Human and Physical Geography modules:
Dynamic Earth
Environmental Issues
Human Geographies of the Modern World
Researching Globalisation

The modules are delivered through combinations of lectures, tutorials, practical classes and field work. They provide an introduction to the subject and analysis of the inter-connections between global, regional and local scales. Associated essays, practicals and research projects contribute to the overall assessment.

Year 2

Students proceeding to a Single Honours Degree in Geography take core modules that explore contemporary approaches to geographical inquiry and the acquisition and analysis of geographical information. In addition, students select from a range of optional human or physical geography-based modules. Single Honours students have an opportunity to attend a residential field course in the second semester. In the past, these have included field sites in Mallorca, Cyprus, Malta, the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Level 3 Modules

An element of independent study is required at Level 3, offering you an opportunity to carry out a supervised research project on a topic that interests you (the dissertation), where you can tailor your degree according to your interests. You also select five other specialised modules which vary from year to year. Examples of research topics include:

• Geoforensics
• Global finance
• Palaeoecology
• Science and society
• Sea-level change
• Social geography
• Tropical environments
• Urban development

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

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

Requirements

BSc Geography

• A-level BBB normally including A-level Geography + GCSE Mathematics.
• Irish Leaving Certificate B2B2B2B2CC/B2B2B2B2B2 normally including Higher Level grade B2 in Geography + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade C in Mathematics.

BSc Geography with Extended Studies in Europe

You should indicate your preferred language in the choices section of your UCAS application.

• A-levelBBB normally including A-level Geography + GCSE Mathematics.
  For French option: A-level French grade B.
  For Spanish option: A-level Spanish grade B.
• Irish Leaving CertificateB1B2B2B2CC/B1B2B2B2B2 normally including Higher Level grade B2 in Geography + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade C in Mathematics.
  For French option: Higher Level grade B1 in French.
  For Spanish option: Higher Level grade B1 in Spanish.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

The financing options for the Geography undergraduate program at Queen's University Belfast are designed to support students throughout their studies, ensuring access to quality education and resources. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's domicile and specific circumstances. For UK students, the current annual tuition fee is approximately £9,250, which covers tuition, access to facilities, and academic resources. International students are typically charged higher fees, which may range from around £17,500 to £20,000 per year, reflecting the costs associated with delivering education to students from abroad.

In addition to tuition fees, students should consider additional costs such as student union charges, registration fees, and expenses related to field trips, which are an integral part of Geography courses. Accommodation, transportation, and personal living expenses are also to be factored into the overall financial plan. To support students financially, Queen's University Belfast offers a variety of scholarships, bursaries, and student grants. These include merit-based awards for high-achieving students, need-based bursaries for those with demonstrated financial need, and specific awards for international students.

Funding opportunities are also available through government student loan schemes for eligible UK students, which can cover tuition fees and maintenance costs. International students may have access to scholarships specifically designed for their country of origin or region, awarded based on academic merit or other criteria. Students are encouraged to apply early for financial aid and to explore external funding sources, including government grants, charitable foundations, and private sponsorship programs.

The university provides comprehensive financial guidance through its student financial aid office, assisting students in planning their budgets and understanding available funding options. Additionally, some students may be eligible for part-time work opportunities on or off campus to supplement their income during their studies. Overall, financing a degree in Geography at Queen's University Belfast involves a combination of university-funded aid, government support, private scholarships, and personal savings, all aimed at making higher education accessible and affordable for a diverse student body.

The BSc Geography program at Queen's University Belfast offers students a comprehensive education in the scientific study of the Earth's physical features, processes, and environments, as well as human interactions with the environment. The degree emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in environmental consultancy, geographic information systems (GIS), urban planning, conservation, and academia. The program incorporates a diverse curriculum that covers physical geography topics such as geomorphology, climatology, and biogeography, alongside human geography subjects including cultural, economic, and political geography. Students have access to modern laboratory facilities, GIS software, and fieldwork opportunities that equip them with essential skills for analyzing geographical data and solving spatial problems. The program is designed to foster critical thinking, spatial awareness, and research capabilities, enabling students to undertake independent investigations and contribute to solving real-world environmental challenges. Queen's University Belfast also encourages interdisciplinary learning, integrating aspects of geology, ecology, and environmental management. Throughout the duration of the program, students benefit from expert teaching staff, active research centres, and partnerships with industry stakeholders. The program typically offers options for industrial placements, international exchanges, and collaborative projects that enhance employability and global perspective. Graduates of the BSc Geography program are well-positioned to pursue postgraduate studies or enter employment sectors such as environmental consulting, urban development, government agencies, NGOs, and academia. The program's flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies to special interests within geography, ensuring a personalized educational experience aligned with their career aspirations.