COURSE CURRICULUM

The BSc (Hons) Physical Geography program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the processes shaping the Earth’s natural environment and the skills to address environmental challenges. In the first year, students establish a foundation through core modules such as Atmosphere, Weather and Climate, Biodiversity and Global Change, Reading the Landscape, Introducing Research in Geography, and Foundation Skills for LEC, with optional modules including Catchment Science and Geology. These modules introduce students to fundamental concepts in climate, ecosystems, geomorphology, and research methods. In the second year, learning progresses through core modules like Geographical Data Science, Living with the Landscape, and Physical Geography in Practice, while optional modules allow exploration of areas such as Atmospheric Science, Hydrology and Water Quality, Ecology and Conservation, Ice and Glaciers, Soil Science, Practical Geoscience, and field courses like Sustainable Hebrides. The third year focuses on independent research through a core Dissertation module, with a wide range of optional modules including Climate Change, Cryosphere in a Changing Climate, Environmental Pollution, Geological Hazards, Spatial Data Analysis, Sustainable Agriculture, Water Resources Management, and field-based studies. Throughout the program, students develop practical fieldwork, analytical, data management, and problem-solving skills, preparing them for careers in environmental consultancy, urban planning, hazard mitigation, energy, agriculture, government, and research, while equipping them to contribute to sustainable environmental management and policy.