COURSE CURRICULUM

The Geography BSc at Leeds provides a comprehensive understanding of both physical and human geography while developing the skills needed to address environmental and societal challenges. In the first year, students explore the formation of landscapes through processes such as volcanism, glaciation, and earthquakes, the history of the Earth’s environments, ecosystem responses to global change, and human-environment interactions. Foundational skills in data analysis, writing, computing, and fieldwork are developed through modules like Planet Under Threat, Digital Geographies, and Exploring the Physical Environment, alongside optional modules in dynamic landscapes, population studies, and geopolitics. In the second year, students deepen their knowledge of natural hazards, climate dynamics, sustainability, and ecosystems while enhancing practical and analytical skills in GIS, remote sensing, and programming. Fieldwork options allow hands-on experience in conducting research projects. Career-focused modules prepare students for graduate employment by developing professional skills and understanding how to apply geographic expertise in the workplace. In the final year, students undertake an independent physical geography dissertation, choosing a topic aligned with their interests and developing research, data analysis, and project management skills. Optional modules allow further exploration of topics such as hydrological systems, the cryosphere, tropical forest sustainability, and ecosystem management, with opportunities for placements and additional field courses to enhance practical experience.