Geography with Foundation Year BSc (Hons)

Birkbeck, University of London

Birkbeck’s BSc Geography gives you the skills and knowledge to understand our changing physical and social environment, and how this impacts on the challenges facing our contemporary world. Led by leading researchers in the field, this geography degree will help you discover the multiple connections between space, place, human culture and physical landscapes in which we live, addressing issues such as climate change, the causes and impact of inequalities, and how we live together in an increasingly urban world.

You will learn key geographical skills in your first year and then tailor your degree to your interests, by drawing from a range of option modules in the fields of human, physical and environmental geography, geographic information systems (GIS) and international development. These modules cover a range of subjects from globalisation to food security, water resources to gentrification, and culture and development to nature conservation. You will also complete a dissertation or a literature review in an area of special interest to you, furthering the development of important skills in data collection and analysis.

There are many possible careers with a geography degree, and through a mix of UK-based, local and international field teaching, you will acquire theory and knowledge, practical skills, and research and project management experience, all of which will enhance your employability. 

If you opt for the Foundation Year route, this will fully prepare you for undergraduate study. It is ideal if you are returning to study after a gap, or if you have not previously studied the relevant subjects, or if you didn't achieve the grades you need for a place on your chosen undergraduate degree.

Highlights

• Birkbeck teaching takes place in the evening, enabling you to work and study at the same time. You will study in small classes, interacting with classmates, some of whom are already working in relevant sectors and are keen to share their experience and expertise.
• Our geography teaching is research-led, offering a complete grounding in human, environmental, GIS and physical geography, as well as a wide range of option modules that let you tailor your degree to your interests.
• We offer a range of local and international field trips, exploring a range of themes in human and physical geography.
• Our campus in London offers students the chance to explore one of the world’s great multicultural cities, and access to world-class libraries and institutions like the British Museum and the British Library.
• We are proud of our vibrant research culture, powered by a shared passion for learning and intellectual engagement among our academics and students. We have a strong commitment to social justice, which is demonstrated in much of our research.

Careers and employability

Graduates can pursue career paths in:

• the corporate sector
• local and national government
• planning
• policy-making
• environment
• development.

We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.