MSc Human Resource Management (Top Up)
The MSc Human Resource Management (Top-Up) program at the University of Gloucestershire...
BSc Hons Geography (Placement)
Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
This BSc (Hons) Geography program is designed for students interested in the physical aspects of our world and the critical environmental challenges of the 21st century, such as climate change, water management, natural hazards, and sustainable development. It offers a balanced curriculum that builds a strong foundation in both physical and some aspects of human geography, particularly where these interact with the environment. A key feature is the integrated placement year, typically undertaken in the third year, which allows students to apply their academic knowledge in a professional setting, gaining a significant competitive edge upon graduation. The university offers this program alongside a BA (Hons) Geography and a BA (Hons) Human Geography, with flexibility for students to switch between the BA and BSc pathways up to the end of the second year, and to select human geography themes within the BSc. The course emphasizes a practical, field-based and coursework-driven learning approach, with no exams, ensuring that assessments truly reflect the skills and attributes sought by employers.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BSc (Hons) Geography (Placement) program is structured to provide a broad understanding of geographical concepts in the initial year, allowing students to specialize in their areas of interest as they progress. First-year modules typically cover foundational topics such as Earth systems and processes, sustainable worlds, data handling and presentation, and introductory geographical research and fieldwork. Students will develop a robust skillset including laboratory techniques, statistical analysis, and a strong command of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). In the second year, students delve deeper into areas like the atmosphere, biogeography, and may have the opportunity for overseas field research, enhancing their understanding of diverse landscapes in regions such as Europe, Africa, or the Americas. The third year is dedicated to the placement, offering a year of professional experience. Final year modules often allow for further specialization in areas like climate change, river science and management, pollution in ecological systems, or advanced GIS, culminating in an independent research project or dissertation. The program emphasizes practical and field-based learning, with opportunities for fieldwork in the UK and potentially overseas.
Research Focus: The BSc (Hons) Geography (Placement) program at the University of Gloucestershire has a strong research-informed teaching approach. The curriculum integrates the latest research in physical geography and environmental science. Students are actively involved in research-related activities throughout their degree. The 'Introductory Geographical Research & Fieldwork' module in the first year provides a foundation in research methods. The opportunity for overseas field research in the second year allows students to design and conduct their own research projects in a different environment. The final year dissertation or independent project provides a significant opportunity for students to pursue in-depth research on a topic of their choice, guided by academic supervisors who are active researchers in their fields. The research focus is particularly evident in the modules addressing critical environmental challenges, such as climate change, pollution, and the management of natural resources.
Industry Engagement: A key differentiator of this program is its strong emphasis on industry engagement, primarily through the integrated placement year. The University of Gloucestershire has a strong network and actively supports students in securing placements with a wide range of organizations. These placements provide invaluable professional experience, allowing students to apply their academic learning in real-world settings, develop a range of transferable skills, and build their professional network. Past students on similar programs at the university have undertaken placements in diverse sectors, including environmental consultancy, local government, and various businesses. Beyond the placement, the program often benefits from guest lectures from industry professionals, seminars, and conferences, providing students with opportunities to connect with potential employers and gain insights into the professional world.
Global Perspective: The BSc (Hons) Geography (Placement) program cultivates a strong global perspective in its students. The curriculum addresses global environmental challenges such as climate change, sea-level rise, and the sustainable use of resources, which inherently require a global understanding. The second-year overseas field research opportunities, with potential destinations across different continents, offer a direct and immersive experience of different geographical contexts and cultures. Even within the UK-based modules, the program is likely to use case studies and examples from around the world to illustrate key concepts and issues. This global outlook prepares graduates for careers that often involve working on issues with an international dimension or in a globalized job market.
Location
Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 16600
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% 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 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 64.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Gloucestershire offers a range of scholarships designed to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships are aimed at making education more accessible and affordable, allowing students to focus on their studies and enjoy their time in the UK without financial stress. The university provides several merit-based, need-based, and country-specific scholarships to help ease the cost of tuition fees for international students.
International Scholarships: The University of Gloucestershire offers International Scholarships for students coming from various countries across the globe. These scholarships typically range from £1,000 to £3,000 per year, based on academic achievement and the chosen course of study. The scholarship is automatically awarded to eligible students upon acceptance of their offer to study at the university. These awards are designed to make studying in the UK more affordable and are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Excellence Scholarships: For international students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, the University of Gloucestershire offers Excellence Scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to students who have achieved exceptional academic results in their previous studies. The Excellence Scholarship can be worth up to £3,000 and is designed to recognize and support high-achieving students who show great potential in their chosen field of study.
Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general international scholarships, the University of Gloucestershire offers country-specific scholarships to students from certain regions. These scholarships are tailored to students from specific countries, helping to promote international diversity at the university. The scholarships vary in amount, eligibility criteria, and application processes.
Graduates holding a BSc (Hons) Geography (Placement) from the University of Gloucestershire are highly employable, possessing a robust foundation in physical geography, environmental science, and advanced analytical techniques. The integrated placement year provides them with invaluable practical experience, making them particularly attractive to employers in a variety of sectors.
Environmental Scientist/Consultant: With a strong understanding of earth systems, environmental processes, and the impacts of human activities, Environmental Scientists or Consultants are in high demand. Graduates with a placement could have gained direct experience in environmental monitoring, impact assessments, or developing sustainable solutions for clients in the public or private sector, making them well-prepared for these roles.
Hydrologist/Water Resource Manager: Given the program's likely focus on water systems (rivers, potentially coasts, and climate's influence on these), Hydrologists or Water Resource Managers are a natural fit. They work on managing water resources, flood risk assessment, water quality, and river restoration projects. A placement with an environmental agency or a water company would provide a significant advantage in this field.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialist: The BSc program emphasizes GIS skills, which are highly sought after across numerous industries. GIS Specialists analyze, manage, and present spatial data using specialized software. Graduates with a placement could have applied their GIS skills in areas like urban planning, environmental mapping, or natural resource management, strengthening their expertise for this career.
Climate Change Analyst/Mitigation Officer: With the program addressing climate change as a critical environmental challenge, graduates are equipped to work as Climate Change Analysts or Mitigation Officers. They might work for government bodies, NGOs, or businesses to assess climate risks, develop adaptation strategies, or implement carbon reduction initiatives. A relevant placement could provide experience in climate policy or sustainable development projects.
Geotechnical Engineer (Entry-Level Role): Although more of an engineering field, a BSc in Geography with a strong physical geography and potentially geology component (often included in BSc Geography programs) can lead to entry-level roles in Geotechnical Engineering. These professionals analyze the ground and rock conditions for construction projects. A placement could offer a valuable introduction to the industry.
Conservation Officer: Graduates passionate about biodiversity and ecosystem management can pursue careers as Conservation Officers. They work for conservation organizations, national parks, or local authorities to protect and manage natural habitats and species. The program's likely modules on ecology and the environment, combined with a relevant placement (e.g., with a wildlife trust), would be highly beneficial.
Environmental Data Analyst: The program's emphasis on data handling and statistical analysis makes graduates well-suited for roles as Environmental Data Analysts. They would work with large datasets related to environmental monitoring, pollution levels, or natural phenomena, using their analytical skills to identify trends and inform decisions. A placement could involve working with environmental data in a practical setting.
Field Research Scientist/Assistant: For those with a strong interest in hands-on scientific work, the program's focus on fieldwork and research methods prepares graduates for roles as Field Research Scientists or Assistants. They might work on research projects related to climate change, ecological monitoring, or geological surveys for research institutions, universities, or environmental organizations. The overseas fieldwork and placement opportunities would be highly relevant here.
Environmental Education Officer: Graduates who enjoy communicating scientific information can work as Environmental Education Officers. They develop and deliver educational programs and materials on environmental issues for schools, museums, or environmental centers. A placement could offer experience in public engagement or educational program development.
Flood Risk Analyst: Given the increasing focus on flood management, a BSc in Geography with a focus on hydrology and potentially geomorphology would prepare graduates for roles as Flood Risk Analysts. They assess flood hazards, model flood events, and contribute to flood management plans. A placement with an environmental agency or a flood management authority would be highly valuable in this specialized field.
