Geography - BSc (Hons)

University of Northampton

Why do some communities experience greater environmental challenges than others? How are landscapes shaped by natural processes and human activity? What role can we play in responding to climate change, sustainability and global development issues? Geography helps answer these questions by exploring the relationships between people, places and environments. This course combines human and physical geography to help you understand how the world is changing and how geographical knowledge can contribute to positive solutions for the future. You'll investigate a wide range of environmental, social and geographical issues while developing skills in observation, analysis, critical thinking and problem-solving. From local challenges to global issues, you'll explore how physical and human processes interact and influence the world around us. After developing a broad geographical foundation, you'll have opportunities to specialise in areas that match your interests and career ambitions. This allows you to shape your degree around the aspects of geography that inspire you most. You'll participate in a range of field-based activities, including day trips, residential field courses and optional overseas experiences, helping you apply geographical concepts in real-world settings and develop practical research skills.  You can choose to take an optional placement year enabling you to put into practice what you have learned on your degree and gain practical industry experience. You'll learn how to use industry-standard Geographical Information Systems (GIS), gaining valuable technical skills that are widely used across geography, planning, environmental management and related sectors. Alongside this, dedicated employability support and a final-year work placement opportunity help you gain practical experience and prepare for the next stage of your career. The programme is accredited by the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG), recognising the quality of the geographical knowledge, technical abilities and transferable skills developed throughout the degree. By graduation, you'll have developed a broad understanding of geographical issues, practical field and analytical skills, and experience applying geographical thinking to real-world challenges across environmental, social and professional contexts.

At UON, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027\*.

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost\*\*, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day.

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship. ✱ Eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/\ ✱✱ Eligibility criteria and t&cs apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits