Birkbeck, University of London has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
Course summary
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.
- the corporate sector
- local and national government
- planning
- policy-making
- environment
- development.
Modules
For information about course structure and the modules you will be studying, please visit Birkbeck’s online prospectus.
Assessment method
Most modules are assessed by a combination of unseen examinations and coursework. The final-year independent literature review or research project is assessed purely by project work.
How to apply
31Jan
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
International applicants
If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests. We also accept other English language tests.
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
A level
Access to HE Diploma - D: 15 credits M: 15 credits
We welcome applicants without traditional entry qualifications as we base decisions on our own assessment of qualifications, knowledge and previous work experience. We may waive formal entry requirements based on judgement of academic potential. FOUNDATION YEAR DEGREES Our 'with Foundation Year' route is designed to give you extra support as it provides you with an additional year (full-time) or two years (part-time) of supported study. This is an ideal route if you are returning to study after a gap, or if you have not previously studied this subject, or if you did not achieve the grades you need for a place on this degree. Once you successfully complete your Foundation Year studies, you will automatically advance onto the main degree.
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £6935 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £6935 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £6935 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £6935 | Year 1 |
| International | £13215 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Students are charged a tuition fee in each year of their course. Tuition fees for students continuing on their course in following years may be subject to annual inflationary increases.
Provider information
Birkbeck, University of London
Malet Street
Bloomsbury
London
WC1E 7HX
Course contact details
Visit our course pageBirkbeck Student Advice Service
0203 907 0700