MA Digital Media and Creative Industries
The MA Digital Media and Creative Industries at Loughborough University aims t...
BSc (Hons) Geography with Economics with Placement Year
Loughborough
INTAKE: October
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) Geography with Economics with Placement Year at Loughborough University is an innovative program that equips students with a well-rounded understanding of how geographical and economic forces shape our world. From exploring the effects of globalisation and climate change to understanding economic inequality and regional development, the program blends theory with real-world application. The inclusion of a placement year allows students to gain invaluable professional experience in a relevant industry or sector, significantly boosting their employability and career prospects upon graduation.
Curriculum: The curriculum is carefully designed to provide a balanced mix of core geography and economics modules, with opportunities for specialization based on individual interests. Students study topics such as human geography, spatial analysis, globalisation, environmental change, macroeconomics, microeconomics, and applied economic policy. Modules in research methods and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) develop critical technical and analytical skills. The course includes fieldwork, data interpretation, and real-world case studies, allowing students to apply academic concepts to contemporary global issues. Optional modules in areas like development economics, urban geography, and climate policy enable a tailored learning experience.
Research Focus: Loughborough University is renowned for its high-impact research and is home to globally recognised research centres in geography, environmental sciences, and economics. The program encourages students to engage with research-led teaching, particularly in areas such as sustainable development, urban resilience, global inequality, and climate change adaptation. Students have opportunities to work on independent research projects, participate in fieldwork, and use advanced data tools and software, such as GIS, to explore complex real-world challenges. The research culture fosters critical inquiry and innovation, ensuring graduates are prepared to contribute to evidence-based decision-making.
Industry Engagement: A standout feature of the program is its strong focus on industry engagement. The placement year allows students to work in sectors such as environmental consultancy, economic analysis, government planning, or sustainable development. Loughborough University maintains close relationships with a wide network of employers and provides dedicated support through its Careers Network to help students secure high-quality placements. In addition, guest lectures, industry workshops, and networking events offer students direct insights into career pathways and current professional practices. This hands-on experience not only builds confidence but also gives students a competitive edge in the job market.
Global Perspective: Loughborough University fosters a global learning environment with students and staff from over 100 countries and numerous international academic partnerships. The BSc (Hons) Geography with Economics program integrates global case studies and perspectives throughout the curriculum, ensuring students gain an understanding of international development, transnational policy issues, and global economic trends. The university's emphasis on global citizenship and sustainable development prepares students to think critically and act responsibly in an interconnected world. Graduates leave with a deep appreciation for how local actions influence global outcomes, making them well-suited for roles in international organisations and multinational corporations.
Location
Loughborough
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 23000
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 75% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 92.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 120.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Loughborough University offers a range of scholarships for international students to support their education and make studying in the UK more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, financial need, and the potential for students to contribute to the university community.
International Excellence Awards: These are merit-based scholarships offered to international students applying for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These awards typically cover part of the tuition fees and are designed to attract outstanding students from around the globe.
Global Scholarships: Loughborough offers various global scholarships based on geographical location, supporting students from specific regions or countries with reduced tuition fees.
Loughborough University Elite Sports Scholarships: These are available for students who are competing at an elite level in their sport. The scholarship includes financial support, as well as access to the university's world-class sports facilities, coaching, and training programs.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Loughborough University offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular countries. These scholarships are designed to support students who demonstrate high academic potential and a commitment to contributing to their home country upon graduation.
Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Geography with Economics with Placement Year program are well-positioned to pursue a broad range of careers in fields such as urban planning, environmental consultancy, policy analysis, economic research, and international development. The combination of geographic knowledge and economic analysis makes them attractive candidates for roles that require both spatial thinking and quantitative analysis.
Urban and Regional Planning: Graduates with expertise in geography and economics can pursue careers in urban and regional planning. These roles often involve working with government agencies, urban development firms, or planning consultancies to design sustainable urban environments, manage land use, and improve regional development strategies. Their ability to analyze economic data alongside geographical factors allows them to address challenges related to housing, infrastructure, transportation, and sustainable growth.
Environmental Consultancy: The increasing importance of sustainability and environmental protection has created numerous career opportunities for geography and economics graduates. Environmental consultants work with businesses, government organizations, and NGOs to assess environmental impacts, design sustainable strategies, and manage resources efficiently. Graduates may focus on areas such as climate change, environmental policy, resource management, and ecological restoration, helping organizations balance economic goals with environmental responsibilities.
Economic Policy and Government Roles: With their strong background in both geography and economics, graduates can pursue careers in economic policy analysis, working in local or national governments, think tanks, and public policy institutions. These professionals analyze economic data, assess the impacts of various policies, and contribute to the development of strategies that address issues such as economic inequality, regional development, and environmental sustainability.
Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Sustainability is a key focus for businesses across the world, and graduates with a combination of geographical and economic expertise are well-suited to roles in corporate social responsibility (CSR). These positions involve working with companies to implement sustainable practices, reduce environmental footprints, and promote social responsibility in supply chains, operations, and corporate strategies.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Data Analysis: With proficiency in GIS and spatial data analysis, graduates can pursue careers in sectors such as logistics, transportation, urban planning, and environmental management. GIS professionals work with geographic data to create maps, analyze trends, and inform decision-making in areas such as land use planning, disaster management, and resource allocation. Their ability to combine geographic and economic data is a valuable asset to organizations that rely on spatial analysis.
International Development and Global Economics: Graduates of this program often pursue careers in international development, working with organizations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, and various non-governmental organizations (NGOs). These roles involve addressing global issues such as poverty, economic inequality, trade development, and sustainability. Geography and economics graduates are well-prepared to assess the economic impacts of global development projects, design sustainable solutions, and work on policies that promote global economic stability.
Market and Economic Research: The ability to analyze economic trends, geographical data, and market dynamics positions graduates for careers in market research, economic consultancy, and data analysis. These roles involve conducting research, analyzing data sets, and providing insights to businesses, governments, and organizations about market conditions, consumer behavior, and economic performance. This work is essential for developing strategies in sectors like finance, retail, and public policy.
Finance and Banking: With their strong grounding in economics, graduates can also explore opportunities in the finance and banking sectors, working as economic analysts, investment consultants, or financial planners. These positions involve analyzing economic trends, financial markets, and regional economic conditions to provide insights into investment strategies, market predictions, and economic forecasting.
