BSc Geography (Human and Physical)

Program Overview

The BSc Geography (Human and Physical) program at the University of Reading is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of both the physical environment and human systems that shape the world we live in. The program offers a balanced combination of human geography and physical geography, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to address global challenges such as climate change, urbanization, sustainability, and social inequality. This interdisciplinary approach equips students to understand the interactions between the natural environment and human societies, allowing them to develop a broad range of analytical, research, and practical skills. With a strong emphasis on fieldwork, data analysis, and research, the program ensures that students are well-prepared for careers in government, research, urban planning, environmental management, and more.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the BSc Geography (Human and Physical) program is structured to provide students with a strong foundation in both human and physical geography. In the first year, students are introduced to key concepts and skills in both disciplines, including environmental systems, geography of cities, population studies, and the fundamentals of geographic information systems (GIS). As students progress, they engage with more advanced topics such as climatology, hydrology, urban geography, and global environmental change. Throughout the program, there is a strong focus on developing practical skills, including fieldwork and data collection, as well as research techniques for analyzing both human and physical environments. The third year of the program includes opportunities for specialized study, with modules on topics such as coastal systems, environmental policy, political geography, and sustainability. Students also have the opportunity to conduct independent research projects that allow them to explore topics of personal and academic interest in greater depth.

Research Focus: The University of Reading is known for its strong research focus in both human and physical geography, and students benefit from being part of a vibrant research community. Research at the university spans a wide range of topics, including climate change, environmental management, urbanization, geopolitics, and sustainability. The university is particularly noted for its research excellence in climate science, land-use change, environmental policy, and the interactions between human and physical systems. Students are encouraged to engage with ongoing research through opportunities to work with faculty on projects, access to cutting-edge research facilities, and the chance to participate in fieldwork that ties academic learning to real-world challenges. This research-driven approach ensures that students are exposed to the latest developments in geography and are equipped to contribute to solving some of the world’s most pressing environmental and social issues.

Industry Engagement: The BSc Geography (Human and Physical) program at the University of Reading offers extensive opportunities for industry engagement, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the workforce upon graduation. The university has strong connections with a wide range of organizations, including governmental bodies, environmental agencies, NGOs, and private sector companies. Through these partnerships, students have access to valuable placement opportunities, internships, and projects that provide hands-on experience in geography-related careers. The program also offers opportunities to participate in fieldwork, both in the UK and abroad, which helps students develop practical skills in data collection, mapping, and analysis. Industry engagement is further enhanced through guest lectures, networking events, and career fairs, where students can meet potential employers and gain insight into various career paths. The university's emphasis on practical learning and industry collaboration ensures that graduates are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and professional experience needed to excel in their careers.

Global Perspective: The BSc Geography (Human and Physical) program at the University of Reading provides a global perspective, with an emphasis on understanding the interconnectedness of human and physical systems worldwide. Students are encouraged to explore global environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and natural resource management, and to consider the social, political, and economic factors that influence these issues. The program includes modules that address global issues, including urbanization, global poverty, sustainable development, and international environmental policy. Students also have the opportunity to engage in international field trips, allowing them to gain firsthand experience of geography in different parts of the world. This global perspective prepares graduates for careers in international organizations, environmental consultancy, research, and policy-making, and ensures that they are well-equipped to contribute to solving global challenges.