GEOGRAPHY BSc/MA/MA(SocSci)

Geography is the study of the surface of the Earth as the site of human living and working. It considers the variability in physical and human landscapes, along with the interrelationships binding them together.

September start
Session dates
Geography BSc (Hons): F8004 year degree
Geography MA (Hons): L7024 year degree
Geography MA(SocSci) (Hons): L7004 year degree

Glasgow: Gilmorehill campus
Degree options
Study abroad available

WHY STUDY GEOGRAPHY?

This degree programme is accredited by the Institute of Environmental Sciences and the Royal Geographical Society
Our location:- a culturally and historically significant city, close to some of the most the spectacular landscapes in the world; gives us an unparalleled advantage in the study of both human and physical geography
Fieldwork is a fundamental part of studying Geography at the University of Glasgow, and all students undertake residential field classes in the Scottish Highlands and Mallorca, giving you a comprehensive learning experience
Find out more about what it's like to study in the School of Geographical & Earth Sciences: meet our students

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

Geography can be studied as one of three different degrees in Arts, Science or Social Sciences. The Geography component of each degree is identical; the difference is additional subjects that can be taken in years 1 and 2. 

YEAR 1

You will explore an equal balance of physical and human geography themes including a world of resources, of development, of changing environments, a shrinking world, a world of conflict and a world of interactions.

YEAR 2

You will explore human and physical processes, examining environmental problems and their possible resolutions. You will be trained in statistical methods, geographic information systems (GIS), qualitative methods and laboratory analysis.

You will also study other subjects in years 1 and 2, to pursue your interests and ensure maximum flexibility; see Flexible degrees.

YEARS 3 AND 4

If you progress to Honours (years 3 and 4) you will study both core and optional courses. Core courses are related to advanced training methods such as data management, modelling, GIS, interviewing and interpretative methods and dissertation training. A range of optional courses complement the core courses. Some Environmental Geoscience optional courses may also be available to Geography students.

Programme alteration or discontinuation
The University of Glasgow endeavours to run all programmes as advertised. In exceptional circumstances, however, the University may withdraw or alter a programme. For more information, please see: Student contract.

SPECIAL GLASGOW FEATURE

If you intend to continue to Honours, you will attend a week-long residential field course in year 2 to extend the field, laboratory and statistical skills introduced earlier by focusing on group projects, data collection, problem solving, and presentations. This training is developed in year 3 in a week-long overseas field class focusing on dissertation-related project work.

OUR INTERNATIONAL LINKS

You will have the opportunity to apply to study abroad. There are currently two options available: the Erasmus+ Programme and the International Exchange Programme. This will not add any time to your studies. See Study abroad.

Course details

Geography can be studied as one of three different degrees in Arts, Science or Social Sciences. The Geography component of each degree is identical; the difference is additional subjects that can be taken in years 1 and 2.

Arts students taking Geography in their first year should choose their additional courses from other Arts degree programmes.

YEAR 1

Core courses:

Geography 1: Living in a Changing World

You will explore an equal balance of physical and human geography themes including a world of resources, an underdeveloped world, a world of changing environments, a shrinking world, and a changing biosphere in a changing environment.