Geography BSc (Hons)

Why choose this course?

This course is concerned with understanding our world and the global concerns of humanity.

We offer a diverse range of modules in both human and physical geography, which means you can create your own route within the degree and either specialise in one side of the discipline or blend together modules from a range of different fields.

We place strong emphasis on the applied nature of geography which means we engage with real world learning, working in partnership with local authorities, community groups, international agencies, and NGOs, both in the UK and on fieldwork abroad.

We value diversity and inclusion and encourage our students to bring their experiences and backgrounds into our classrooms.

Apply for this course

Attendance	UCAS code	Year of entry
3 years full time	F800	2021 2022
4 years full time including sandwich year	F801	2021 2022
4 years full time including foundation year	F808	2021 2022
6 years part time	Apply direct to the University	2021 2022

Location

Penrhyn Road

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2021 entry

If you are planning to join this course in the academic year 2021/22 (i.e. between September 2021 and August 2022), please view the information about changes to courses for 2021/22 due to Covid-19.

Changes to courses for 2021/22 due to Covid-19

Continuing students

Students who are continuing their studies with Kingston University in 2021/22 should refer to their Course Handbook for information about specific changes that have been, or may be, made to their course or modules being delivered in 2021/22. Course Handbooks are located within the Canvas course page.

Reasons to choose Kingston

This course has been accredited by the Royal Geographical Society (RGS). This confirms it has a solid academic foundation and prepares you for the needs of the world beyond higher education.
This course received more than 91% for satisfaction with teaching (National Student Survey 2019).
100% of students from this course were in employment or further study within six months of graduating (DLHE 2016/17).

Geography at Kingston

Accreditation

The course is accredited by the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) for 2019, 2020 and 2021 entry. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in geographical knowledge and skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of the world beyond higher education.

Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)

What you will study

On this course you will study core modules in geographical theory and research methods along with optional modules in the areas of Human Geography, Physical Geography, and Geographical Information Systems (GIS) where you will learn about digital mapping and spatial analysis. In this way you can tailor your course to suit your interests and career aspirations.

For example, if you are interested in Human Geography you can specialise in human modules, or if you are interested in Physical Geography you can focus on physical/environmental modules. If, by contrast, you are interested in a blend of human and physical issues you can choose a mix of modules from across the spectrum of the discipline. You can also choose to focus on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) as this is offered in both core and optional modules.

Year 1

Year 2

Optional sandwich year

Year 3/4

Year 1 provides a foundation in human and physical geography. You'll be introduced to a broad range of key transferable skills, including geographical information systems (GIS). You gain an understanding of the Earth, its environments, and the global concerns of humanity.

Year 1 (Core modules)

Introduction to Physical Geography and Environmental Hazards

30 credits

This is a Level 4 module for Geography and Environmental Science students. Core lectures introduce key fundamental topics in physical geography, overviewing the various spheres of the Earth, associated processes and interaction. Themes are presented systematically as a cross-section of the Earth's physical structure: geological underpinning, Earth surface processes (introducing geomorphology, the pedosphere and hydrosphere), the atmosphere, and the biosphere. Interwoven within these topics will be lectures on associated environmental hazards, including geophysical hazards (eg. volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and tsunamis), atmospheric hazards (including hurricanes and tornadoes) and environmental and ecological hazards (including oil spills, mine contamination and wildfires). The processes behind these major natural and man-made environmental hazards will be described, with reasons provided for their occurrence and global spatial distribution. Detailed case studies will be provided for each hazard, from a variety of geographical regions, in order to build a portfolio of examples, enhancing your knowledge of the processes, impacts and means of forecasting and mitigating against the hazards becoming disasters. The module is a pre-requisite for Level 5 environmental and geographical modules: Geomorphology and Geophysical Hazards; Land Water and the Environment; Ecology and Conservation. The module introduces you to the application of geophysical knowledge and skills and potential discipline-related employment opportunities and alerts you to a range of transferable employability skills that will be developed throughout the module. These include discipline-based skills by identifying applications of geophysical knowledge to real world challenges and transferable skills developed in the learning activities and related assessments.

Introducing Human Geography

30 credits

This module is designed to introduce students to key geographical theories and concepts whilst providing a foundation for future studies in Human Geography. Students gain a broad understanding of the relationship between human societies and a range of economic, cultural, social and political processes at a variety of scales.

The module is delivered using lectures and seminars and is supported by a range of online materials. The lectures introduce students to key geographical themes and ideas with the seminars providing the opportunity to explore these further in a group setting. The module provides an essential introduction to future human geography modules that focus in more detail on key geographical theories, concepts, and processes.

Digital Earth and Spatial Analysis

30 credits

Digital Earth: Spatial Analysis introduces and develops the fundamental geographical skills of data collection, analysis and presentation and the solving of spatial problems using GIS. It concerns data types, representations of reality and key spatial analysis techniques. GIS-based skills are important employability skills for geography and environment students with many course-relevant employers requiring a working knowledge of GIS and the application of GIS to solve real world geographical and environmental challenges. Digital literacy employability skills will be introduced and developed in this module and the module will provide a baseline for those taking GG5155 Cartography, Remote Sensing and Spatial Analysis at Level 5 and GG6140 GIS: Transforming Geography and Environment at Level 6.

Research and Fieldwork Methods

30 credits

This is a module for all Level 4 Geography and Environmental Science students. The module introduces a range of generic and discipline specific research and fieldwork methods. Students are introduced to their course learning aims and identify their learning targets from Induction to graduation and their alignment to their learning pathway. Students are tutored in a range of learning techniques (eg. critical thinking and communication skills) and are introduced to assessment for learning and the role of feedback, reflection and feedforward as an integrated part of their learning journey. Students are introduced to a range of research methods that form the basis of successful investigations in their subject areas, including research design, information acquisition, qualitative and quantitative analysis and critical interpretation.

In Year 2, you will develop research, analytical and practical skills through field trips at home and overseas. You'll also deepen your knowledge of GIS and specialise in particular areas of human and physical geography.

Year 2 (core modules)

Advanced Research and Fieldwork Methods

30 credits

This module is core for all Level 5 Geography students and forms a bridge between Level 4 GG4090 Research and Fieldwork Methods and Level 6 GG6400 Research Project. This module also complements GG5002 Geographical Theory and Practice.

This is a research methods focused module where you will engage in classroom based data collection and analysis practical sessions in TB1 and put your learning into practice in a field-based setting in TB2. On completion of this module you will have gained first - hand experience of qualitative and quantitative research methods in both a classroom and a real-world environment. This complements the work that you do in Geographical Research Theory and Practice (GG5002) and prepares you for the level 6 dissertation.

Geographical Theory and Practice

30 credits

This module focuses on the development of geographical thought and practice from the institutionalisation of the discipline to the present. In doing so, the module traces the shifting paradigms that have dominated the discipline and examines the multiple approaches now possible within geographical research and the methodologies that underpin them. Focussing on a range of topics, part student selected, the module will explore the diverse ways that geographers working in different paradigms have approached these topics.

Having developed a sound knowledge of geographical research, theory and practice, you will then develop an independent research proposal. In doing so, you will identify a topic of your choice, select a suitable disciplinary perspective from which to examine it and an appropriate method of investigation. Within the first part of the module you will gain a thorough understanding of the nature of geographical research. In the second part of the module, you will apply this knowledge through the development of your own research project. This module builds on research methods developed at level 4 and lays the groundwork for your dissertation at level 6. This module complements GG5001 Advanced Research and Fieldwork Methods where you develop specific research methods and put research into practise in a real world context.

A Personal Tutorial System (PTS) will run in parallel to the taught elements of the module whereby you will integrate and develop your learning from this module to the wider academic and professional/workplace context. The PTS will emphasise key employability skills that will be acquired through the production of the research projects and through your reflection on employability embedded in other level 5 modules.

Year 2 (optional modules in Physical Geography)

Geomorphology and geophysical hazards

30 credits

This module presents a series of thematic taught sessions overviewing major geomorphological processes and landforms, sedimentary environments and geophysical hazards. The module builds upon foundations of GG4080 Introducing Physical Geography and Environmental Hazards. On completion of the module you will gain a detailed understanding of the major surface processes and their geomorphological significance and will be able to interpret a range of sedimentary environments. Module themes will reflect on likely hazards linked to geomorphological processes, including floods, coastal change (including impacts of sea-level change on coastal environments), slope stability, geological controls on geomorphology such as fault movement and associated and sediments (and sedimentary structures) created by events such as tsunamis and ash falls.

The module emphasises the mastery of geomorphological skills through experiential learning closely associated to core lecture delivery. The practical programme will aid you in evaluating key geomorphological concepts, learning and testing analytical techniques. Fieldwork programme provides an arena for applying new skills and knowledge gained and provides a learning bridge to those wishing to pursue physical geographical and/or hazards based research projects at Level 6.

Land, Water and the Environment

30 credits

First, an understanding of the fundamental principles of soil science is developed whereby the various soil properties and processes, including storage and transport of water in soil, are explained. This provides a good underpinning to developing an understanding of hydrology. Core principles of hydrology are explored both as theoretical physical science of hydrology and practical hydrological skills, which you will gain through hands-on experience and investigations. This knowledge of soil and water sciences forms the essential base for introducing and explaining environmental pollution, including the impact of pollutants on environmental systems (soil, water, plants and air) and human health. It also discusses pollution mitigation and control strategies. Core learning material is provided via Canvas VLE with lectures that are designed to explain fundamental principles and concepts. Employability skills are embedded within the module and specifically include field and laboratory skills that are designed to develop surveying, recording, measuring, sampling, laboratory testing, data analysis, data interpretation and presentational skills.

Year 2 (optional modules in Human Geography)

Disasters, Society and Culture

30 credits

This Level 5 module introduces the key theories and concepts in the social science approaches to understanding disasters, one of the major global challenges facing humanity. It explores the social, cultural, political, economic and other factors that combine to construct vulnerabilities to disasters, and the ways in which these might be countered through disaster risk reduction strategies (DRR). These issues are explored at a range of spatial scales, from the local to the global, along with the inter-linkages and process that bind them together. The relationship between evolving theories and practice are explored through a number of case studies which consider developed and developing world examples across a variety of hazard types. The challenges posed by the interdisciplinary approaches that are necessary to tackle disasters, and the need to communicate with a wide range of stakeholders, are examined. The complex range of factors influencing DRR implementation in particular contexts, and the variety of skills needed to evaluate DRR are investigated through fieldwork. Employability skills and the transferability of acquired knowledge to the workplace environment are introduced and developed.

Contours of Global Capitalism

30 credits

This module is a core module in the Human Geography field. It can be taken as an option module by those studying other fields provided they have successfully completed GE1B, Introduction to Human Geography.

The module is designed to introduce you to the basic principles of investigating a range of contemporary global issues in terms of their political economy. This includes a wide range of spatial issues from the local to the global and the inter-linkages and process that bind them together. The key focus is to understand how contemporary capitalism plays out across different spatial levels and to highlight the processes that underpin it and the implications for different communities. This includes exploring relations between, state, business and citizens.

Regional Geographies

30 credits

This module is core in the Human Geography Field. It is also available as a Level 5 optional module for those on the Geography Field. Level 4 and 5 students will share lectures, but have different seminars and workshops appropriate to each level.

The introduction to the module will provide the 'big picture' overview starting with the concept of regional geography as a sub-discipline in geography, followed by a set of core lectures over-viewing the major regions of the world. An accompanying seminar programme will aid students in evaluating regional concepts and alternative definitions of regions. Workshop sessions will be provided as an arena for preparing for assignments and for formative assessment.

Year 2 (optional modules in GIS)

Cartography, Remote Sensing and Spatial Analysis

30 credits

Maps are tools for visualising geospatial data to communicate spatial patterns and processes and the results of geographical analysis. This module explores the principles of map design and production in a GIS environment. It introduces ground, aerial and space based surveying, exploring the underlying physical principles and geographical/technological concepts. It covers remotely sensed data capture, image processing and data modelling. The third element develops skills in spatial data analysis and modelling and to explore the application of techniques with respect to point patterns, spatially continuous data and area based data.

The optional sandwich year between Years 2 and 3 includes a work placement or international exchange. The work placement gives an opportunity for paid work and valuable experience in a relevant professional environment.

The international exchange gives you an opportunity to travel, meet new people, build links in another academic environment and develop your geographical skills and knowledge.

We will keep in touch with you throughout your placement, ensuring the skills and training you receive translate effectively into your studies and career aspirations.

Your final year will enable you to continue to specialise in areas of geography you find inspiring and choose from modules covering a wide range of topics. Your final year independent research project will reflect your personal interests and help you develop your employability skills. You can also choose to apply your knowledge and skills either in an overseas setting (currently in South Africa) or more locally in London.

Final year (core modules)

Development Geographies

30 credits

This module is a core module in the BA Human Geography and the BSc Geography programme. The module introduces you to critical issues of development including themes such as economic growth, poverty, exclusion, inequality, natural hazards, gender and conflict. It also explores the relations within and between countries and the challenges of development and aid in the context of globalisation. The module includes substantial fieldwork or independent desk-based research. Whilst it introduces theories of development, it is an applied module which seeks to empower you to debate contemporary geographical and environmental issues within an international context. Assessment seeks to engage you in critical appraisal of real world situations, and in strategic planning of interventions, so enhancing your practical skills and employability.

Research Project

30 credits

The module is core to those on the geographical and environmental courses. It provides experience in the design, execution and preparation of an independent but approved programme of research. Furthermore, through the Personal Tutorial System (PTS) it encourages you to employ reflective learning techniques and to develop a variety of level-appropriate employability skills by engaging with their research project as a piece of academic research with commercial, policy or political value which requires effective dissemination and communication to a range of suitable audiences. Employability skills developments are integral to the Research Project module. The specific nature of the research project chosen allows you to target specific skills you wish to develop in your learning pathway and the PTS will work closely with you to identify and articulate these skills through the associated module assessments.

Final year (optional modules in Physical Geography)

Land and Water Resources Management

30 credits

The module examines the relationship between land and water management, global challenges associated with the management of land and water, and sustainable options to seek their resolution. The module will develop an understanding and critical evaluation of these challenges from several perspectives through the systematic investigation of land-use practices, the applications of soil science and linking practices to processes and patterns of land degradation, the interface between land management and water management, global concerns for water security, land use impacts on the wider environment, including climate, physical and socio-political drivers and an examination of the regional land-water management issues.

The Challenge of Climate Change

30 credits

This is a core Level 6 module for all Environmental Science and Environmental Science, Disasters and Management Students. This module tackles the key issues relating to climate change in the three main subject areas of science, policy and society. It aims to provide you with an understanding of the key concepts and processes of climate change and the various ways in which societies can respond. Core factual material is provided via Canvas with keynote lectures, seminars and workshops used to explain concepts. Fieldwork sessions are designed to complement the lecture series and give further practical demonstration of policy and practice complexities.

Final year (optional modules in Human Geography)

Urban Geographies

30 credits

This module is a core module in the Human Geography Field. It can also be taken as an option module by those studying in other fields provided they have taken either Social and Cultural Geographies, Contours of Global Capitalism or Regional Geographies.

The module reviews current perspectives on notions and understandings of what constitutes urban spaces and approaches to studying urban environments, exploring critical perspectives and intervention strategies that construct these environments.

It also explores the relationship between urban form and identity and questions the links between cultural practices and concepts of community, with a particular focus on social processes, urban spaces and design within the built environment.

Additionally, after completing this module, you should have further developed your ability to make and record accurate observations in the field; present conclusions in a logical, intelligible manner; and increased your ability to work as a part of a team.

Global Rural Geographies

30 credits

This module is core in the Human Geography field. This module can be taken as an option module in several fields provided they have successfully passed Regional Geographies, Social and Cultural Geographies or Contours of Capitalism at level 5. It aims to provide you with an understanding of contemporary debates relating to rural areas in both the developed and developing world. It examines the processes and patterns of contemporary change in rural regions and analyses the factors conditioning the restructuring of rural land use and rural economic, social and cultural systems across the world.

Final year (optional modules in GIS)

GIS Transforming Geography and Environment

30 credits

This module has a twin focus on changes that have impacted on Geography and Environment over recent decades and how these have created opportunities for geographical and spatial investigation to address an expanding range of applications. Information technology, in particular GIS, is one of the major drivers of change and this module explores the application of GIS in a range of domains encompassing socio-demographic, economic, political, environmental, natural and anthropogenic hazard events.

The information above reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. Updates may be made on an annual basis and revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year. The regulations governing this course are available on our website. If we have insufficient numbers of students interested in an optional module, this may not be offered.

Entry requirements

Typical offer 2022

UCAS tariff points: 96–120 for BSc (Hons); 32 for BSc (Hons) including foundation year from Level 3 qualifications.

We require a minimum of two A-levels at C grade and we prefer applicants with A-level Geography (minimum C). However, we will also consider other related science and social science combinations, such as Geology, Environmental Management, Tourism, Politics and Economics. General Studies may be considered depending on A-level combination.

Alternatively, BTEC Extended Diploma with grades MMM or BTEC Diploma with grades DD in a relevant subject.

Candidates are normally required to hold five GCSE subjects grades A*-C including Mathematics and English Language (or comparable numeric score under the newly reformed GCSE grading).

Typical offer 2021

UCAS tariff points: 96 for BSc (Hons); 32 for BSc (Hons) including foundation year from Level 3 qualifications.

Alternatively, BTEC Extended Diploma with grades MMM or BTEC Diploma with grades DD in a relevant subject.

Candidates are normally required to hold five GCSE subjects grades A*-C including Mathematics and English Language (or comparable numeric score under the newly reformed GCSE grading).

Alternative routes

We will consider a range of alternative Level 3 qualifications such as an Access Course in Applied Science or Science, which has been passed with 96 UCAS points.

Applications from those that have undertaken a Science foundation year will also be considered.

International

We welcome applications from International Applicants. View our standard entry requirements from your country.

All non-UK applicants must meet our English language requirements. For this course it is Academic IELTS of 6.0, with no element below 5.5.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical classes, interactive group exercises and the use of social media.

Fieldwork is an essential component. Our fieldwork programme includes residential field trips in the UK in Year 1, in Europe in Year 2 and an optional overseas trip during Year 3.

Assessment methods include essays, online assessments, practical reports, seminars, poster presentations and exams. In general, exams constitute about 20 per cent of assessment with the remainder being coursework.

Guided independent study

When not attending timetabled sessions you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. This typically will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, undertaking preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for final assignments. Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities including online resources, the library and CANVAS, the online virtual learning platform.

Academic support

Our academic support team here at Kingston University provides help in a range of areas.

Dedicated personal tutor

When you arrive, we'll introduce you to your personal tutor. This is the member of academic staff who will provide academic guidance, be a support throughout your time at Kingston and who will show you how to make the best use of all the help and resources that we offer at Kingston University.

Your workload

Type of teaching and learning

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 1

Scheduled teaching: 364 hours
Guided independent study: 836 hours

Year 2

Scheduled teaching: 190 hours
Guided independent study: 410 hours

Year 3

Scheduled teaching: 159 hours
Guided independent study: 441 hours

How you will be assessed

Type of assessment

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 1

Coursework: 53%
Practical: 23%
Exams: 24%

Year 2

Coursework: 68%
Practical: 18%
Exams: 14%

Year 3

Coursework: 78%
Practical: 22%

Feedback summary

We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.

Your timetable

Your individualised timetable is normally available to students within 48 hours of enrolment. Whilst we make every effort to ensure timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week between 9am and 6pm. For undergraduate students, Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities, but there may be occasions when this is not possible. Timetables for part-time students will depend on the modules selected.

Class sizes

To give you an indication of class sizes, this course normally enrols 20 students and lecture sizes are normally 20-50. However this can vary by module and academic year.

Who teaches this course

The course is taught at the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing. Faculty staff have a wide range of experience across research and industry and continue to practice and research at the cutting edge of their discipline. This ensures that our courses are current and industry informed ensuring you get the most relevant and up to date education possible.

Staff will use their experience and professional networks to hone your skills and shape you into the next generation of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) graduates.

Postgraduate students may run or assist in lab sessions and may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader.

Dr Douglas Brown

Dr Kerry Brown

Dr Tracey Coates

Dr Peter Garside

Dr Peter Hooda

Professor Ian Jarvis

Dr Mary Kelly

Dr David Kidd

Professor Nigel Walford

Professor Martyn Waller

Field trips for this course

"How many people can get to say, 'I went to South Africa doing my degree!'" – Regina Hamilton, Geography BSc(Hons).

At Kingston we place a strong emphasis on real world learning. That is we learn by ‘doing' geography. Geography is not just the stuff in books but the stuff that is out there in the world. Fieldwork will provide you with an opportunity to participate in real world learning.

Below are the main field trips for the geography courses. Remember they can vary from year to year according to circumstances and new opportunities. Some optional modules also involve local excursions.

Year 1: The Eden Project and Cornwall

The Year 1 five-day field trip usually takes you to the Eden Project in Cornwall. Staff will introduce you to the geographical setting and to the physical and human landscape. Here you will learn about the relationships between society and the environment and consider the ways in which local communities draw on the region's natural capital as a key source for economic development

Year 2: A European destination

The Year 2 week-long field trip usually takes you to a European destination. Staff will introduce you to the geographical setting, physical landscape and environment. A day focusing on human geography investigates social, political and economic issues. A day focusing on physical geography investigates environmental concerns. You will then have the opportunity to work in small groups to design and manage a research project investigating a specific geographical theme covering a range of topics, from coastal management to immigration and integration.

Year 3: UK-based fieldwork

In Year 3 students have had the chance to explore development issues in an international context; however we are currently focusing on a UK-based destination at Level 6. Here students engage with local authorities and development agencies, NGOs, members of the business community and local people to explore some key development challenges in this context.

Facilities

There is a wide range of facilities for practical work at our Penrhyn Road campus, where this course is based. You will have access to a modern environment with the latest equipment, including:

the £9.8 million Eadweard Muybridge building with state-of the art laboratories;
the new £20 million John Galsworthy building with a range of teaching rooms and computing labs;
a well-stocked library that boasts an impressive collection of texts, journals and online e-books/journals; and
excellent social spaces, plus a large, fully equipped gym and fitness centre.

Course fees and funding

2022/23 fees for this course

The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2022/23 the fees for this course are:

Fee category	Amount
Home (UK students)	£9,250*
International	Year 1 (2022/23): £15,400 Year 2 (2023/24): £15,800 Year 3 (2024/25): £16,200

For courses with a sandwich year, the fee for the placement year can be viewed on the undergraduate fees table. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.

* If your course involves a foundation year, the fee for that year for Home (UK) students will be £9,250 in 2022/23. The fees shown above apply for year 1 of the degree from 2022/23 onwards (fees may rise in line with inflation for future academic years). For full time programmes of a duration of more than one academic year, the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the programme. Your annual tuition fees cover your first attempt at all of the modules necessary to complete that academic year. A re-study of any modules will incur additional charges calculated by the number of credits. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full time taught International fees are subject to an annual increase and are published in advance for the full duration of the programme.

Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.

2021/22 fees for this course

The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2021/22 the fees for this course are:

Fee category	Amount
Home (UK students)	£9,250*
International	Year 1 (2021/22): £15,000 Year 2 (2022/23): £15,400 Year 3 (2023/24): £15,800

* If your course involves a foundation year, the fee for that year for Home (UK) students will be £9,250 in 2021/22. The fees shown above apply for year 1 of the degree from 2021/22 onwards (fees may rise in line with inflation for future academic years). For full time programmes of a duration of more than one academic year, the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the programme. Your annual tuition fees cover your first attempt at all of the modules necessary to complete that academic year. A re-study of any modules will incur additional charges calculated by the number of credits. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full time taught International fees are subject to an annual increase and are published in advance for the full duration of the programme.

Additional costs

Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services. Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees.

Where a course has additional expenses, we make every effort to highlight them. These may include optional field trips, materials (e.g. art, design, engineering), security checks such as DBS, uniforms, specialist clothing or professional memberships.

Text books

Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. You may prefer to, or be required to, buy your own copy of key textbooks.

Computer equipment

There are open-access networked computers available across the University, plus laptops available to loan. You may find it useful to have your own PC, laptop or tablet which you can use around campus and in halls of residences.

Free wifi is available on each of the campuses.

Printing

In the majority of cases coursework can be submitted online. There may be instances when you will be required to submit work in a printed format. Printing and photocopying costs are not included in your tuition fees.

Travel

Travel costs are not included but we do have a free intersite bus service which links the campuses and halls of residence.

Note for EU students: UK withdrawal from the European Union

The Government has recently announced that new students from the European Union and Swiss Nationals starting their course after August 2021 will no longer be eligible for a student loan in England for Undergraduate or Postgraduate studies for 2021/22 academic year. This decision only applies to new EU students starting in 2021/22. If you are an existing/continuing EU student, you will continue to be funded until you graduate or withdraw from your course.

Need to know more?

Our undergraduate fees and funding section provides information and advice on money matters.

What our students say

Geography is a subject I have always been interested in. It offers a wide range of skills and there are always new issues to discuss. Originally I went to another university, but I was disappointed with the course. Within the first two weeks I decided to transfer to Kingston. Since transferring, I haven't looked back – it's one of the best decisions of my life. Coming here has been such a good, fulfilling experience. Not just on the academic side of things, but also University life at Kingston in general.

The field trips have been brilliant. It's good to study at sites, rather than just through textbooks, and the trips are a great opportunity to get better acquainted with people on the course. I have also found some of the lectures really stimulating and thought provoking.

Next year I have been accepted to participate in an exchange programme in the US. This is another great opportunity offered by Kingston University and I can't wait to experience life and study over there.

Tom Austin – Geography BSc(Hons)

I wanted to study Geography because I found it interesting. It covers topics that are relevant to what's happening in the world right now. Subjects such as climatology, oceanography and environmental hazards help us understand the physical geography of the planet.

I have found the atmosphere and lecturers at the University very friendly and supportive. I've especially liked the lectures on dynamic earth movements, tropical climates, deserts, and Arctic and Antarctic regions. But the most exciting part of the degree so far has been the field trips – taking part in activities such as hill walking, investigating plant species and looking at weather impact on various regions.

There are various options I am considering once I graduate. I'd like to work for an environmental agency or an organisation such as UNESCO or UNICEF and help people in the third world. Ideally I would like to do more research and a PhD in this field. I feel studying geography has opened up a world of opportunity for me.

Jacek Smok – Geography BSc(Hons)

After you graduate

Graduates work in a wide range of areas, such as local government, retail, human resources, finance, insurance, ICT, education and research. Many graduates progress to postgraduate studies.

Careers and recruitment advice

The Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing has a specialist employability team. It provides friendly and high-quality careers and recruitment guidance, including advice and sessions on job-seeking skills such as CV preparation, application forms and interview techniques. Specific advice is also available for international students about the UK job market and employers' expectations and requirements.

The team runs employer events throughout the year, including job fairs, key speakers from industry and interviews on campus. These events give you the opportunity to hear from, and network with, employers in an informal setting.

Employability preparation at Kingston University

In addition to building expertise in your own discipline, our courses will also help you to develop key transferable skills that you'll need for professional life or further study once you graduate.

As well as a range of careers and employability activities at Kingston, we also offer you the chance to apply and develop your skills in live contexts as an integral part of your course. Opportunities include:

placements;
working or studying abroad;
volunteering;
peer mentoring roles; and
internship opportunities within and outside the University.

In your final year, you'll get the opportunity to complete a major 'capstone' project where you can apply the knowledge and skills you have acquired to a range of real issues in different contexts. This is a great way to learn and is a valuable bridge to employment or further research at masters level.

Courses available after you graduate

If you decide that you would like to go on to postgraduate study after your undergraduate course, we offer a 10% discount on our postgraduate course tuition fees to our alumni.

What our graduates say

Check out what our graduates have gone on to do and how studying at Kingston helped them achieve their goals.

Janak Mistry

Geography graduate Janak Mistry talks about his time studying at Kingston University, and his position in the Lloyds Banking Group graduate scheme.

Mark Banfield

Geography graduate Mark Banfield talks about his time studying at Kingston University, and his role as vice president at Autotask.

Oliver Hall

Geography graduate Oliver Hall talks about his time studying at Kingston University, and his position as an operations director at Liquid Productions.

Steve Smith

Geography graduate Steve Smith talks about his time studying at Kingston University, and his position as a geography teacher.

Women in science

Part of our women in science series – find out about Chrisa Tsiarigli, who graduated in 2002 with a Geographical Information Systems with Business Management BSc(Hons).

She is currently a principal public health intelligence specialist for the NHS south-west London sector.

Links with business and industry

Staff are involved in active research so illustrate teaching with up-to-date, relevant experience.

Local authorities, government organisations and community partnerships

We have built links with many external organisations, particularly local authorities including:

Kingston First
Royal Borough of Kingston
Kingston Chamber of Commerce
Kingston Racial Equality Council
Kingston Food Bank
Surbiton Community Brain
London Metropolitan Police
Greater London Authority
Fulham Football Club
Fulham Foundation
South London Partnership
Hogsmill River Catchment Partnership
Zoological Society of London.

These organisations provide us with expert guest lecturers and also facilitate on site visits. This provides students with perspective on contemporary challenges in society and on the way in which geographical knowledge can usefully be applied in real world contexts. Engagement with these organisations also provides students with insights into areas of employability.

International links

We also have links with international organisations. These include:

The University of Malta
Malta Environment and Planning Authority
Malta Council for Economic and Social Development
The BREEDE Skills Training Centre and Youth Activity Centre, South Africa,
Naturally Knysna, South Africa
Backsberg Vineyard, South Africa

International fieldwork programmes enable students to examine human and physical issues in diverse contexts and to get perspective on the challenges that other countries face from local governmental and non-governmental organisations and from industry.

Work placement year

How you can work in industry during your course

Why take a placement? Work placements:

provide work experience that is relevant to your course and future career;
improve your chances of graduating with a higher grade degree;
enhance your CV;
lead to a graduate job;
enable you to earn a year's salary whilst studying (the vast majority of placements are paid); and
help you to select your final-year project.

"To be successful, tomorrow's leaders will need to be far more rounded individuals than ever before. They will collaborate in pursuit of shared goals. They will guide, challenge and support...They will have an appetite for change and a hunger for continuous improvement, and they will have an ethos of learning and development..."
Jeremy Darroch, Former Chief Executive, Sky

"Doing a placement year effectively gives you one foot in the door of a future job and to stand out from the crowd... as well as enhancing my CV... and future interviews. It's a great motivator to be successful in my studies as it only serves to open even more doors and gain more skills."
Placement student at Jagex Games Studios Ltd

81% placement students and 34% non-placement students got a first or 2.1 (Faculty of Computing, Information Systems and Mathematics, 2008).
100% of placement students during 2008 recommend doing a placement (Faculty of Computing, Information Systems and Mathematics, 2008).
Many employers offer a graduate job to their successful placement students.

There is a lot of support available for students looking to secure a placement (eg a jobs board with placement vacancies, help with writing CVs and mock interviews). Getting a placement and passing the placement year are ultimately the student's responsibility.

For further information please contact the Placements Team by telephone 020 8417 2969 or email secplace@kingston.ac.uk.

Changes to courses for 2021/22 due to Covid-19

Course information (changes for 2021/22 entry)

Composition of the course

Unless government advice instructs otherwise, Study Abroad programmes will take place in 2021/22. The safety of all our students is paramount, therefore, as per normal practice, all Study Abroad activities must also be approved by the University's insurers to ensure that students are adequately protected during their period abroad. We will provide updates as the pandemic situation stabilises and/or further government advice is released.

Changes can be made to courses as part of normal enhancement processes in order to keep our courses up to date with current developments in that subject area and in response to feedback from students and other key stakeholders. Any such changes made to the composition of the course will be highlighted to students by email before enrolment.

Modules

Changes can be made to modules as part of normal enhancement processes in order to keep our courses up to date with current developments in that subject area and to provide a high quality student experience. Any such changes made to module titles, module summaries and/or availability of modules will be highlighted to students by email before enrolment.

Length of course

We expect to deliver the course within the planned timescales to enable successful students to progress through and graduate from the course without delay.

In exceptional circumstances the sequence of learning and teaching activities may be changed in 2021/22, e.g. moving those modules which can be delivered more effectively to the first teaching block and moving back those – such as practical modules and placements – which may be more difficult to deliver due to some ongoing restrictions.

In some cases, it may be necessary to delay placement modules which may then impact the length of the course. In these circumstances the University will guide students through the appropriate options available to ensure students are able to make informed choices.

Entry requirements (changes for 2021/22 entry)

We have not changed entry requirements as a direct result of the pandemic.

Entry requirements for international students

We have not changed entry requirements for international students as a direct result of the pandemic.

Teaching (changes for 2021/22 entry)

Changes to the way the course will be delivered

As we transition from the pandemic restrictions, we expect to steadily increase the proportion of on-campus teaching. We will continue to provide a proportion of online learning, as experience has shown that this enriches and supports the student learning experience.

If the pandemic affects teaching and learning activities in 2021/22 more than we currently anticipate, the proportion of online learning will increase. However, unless a lockdown is enforced, we will ensure that all courses provide a reasonable percentage of their teaching and learning activities on campus.

Should your circumstances prevent your attendance at on-campus sessions, you should still be able to engage with your course remotely in a way that allows you to progress. Where this is not possible, for example on courses with high practical content, your course team will be able to advise you on the options available to you.

Changes to teaching in the event of a further lockdown or adjustments in government advice

The University will continue to closely monitor government announcements and advice in relation to the pandemic and, where required, will take any necessary action in order to comply with such advice.

In the event that a further lockdown is enforced in 2021/22 the University will aim to deliver the course fully online once more. The majority of our courses are prepared to be delivered fully online if the situation requires it. Where the quality of the student experience may be compromised, or the course is unable to be delivered fully online, the University may need to suspend the delivery of that course until a time that it can be delivered. Students will be supported in these situations to ensure they are able to make the right choices for their particular circumstances.

Changes to the overall breakdown of scheduled teaching hours, placements and guided independent study hours for Year 1

Changes to the overall breakdown of scheduled learning and teaching hours, placements and guided independent study hours were not and will not be made as a direct result of the pandemic.

‘Scheduled learning and teaching' includes teaching delivered online, either live or recorded/on demand.

Timetable

Your individualised timetable for teaching block 1 (i.e. up to December 2021) should be available by the end of August. Timetables for teaching block 2 (i.e. from January 2022) will not be available until the autumn. We make every effort to ensure timetables are as student-friendly as possible.

In 2020/21 it was agreed that scheduled learning and teaching could take place on any day of the week between 9am and 9pm, to maximise the time available for teaching in order to accommodate smaller group sizes and social distancing. This meant we sometimes had to use Wednesday afternoons and enrichment week for additional teaching slots. If we need to accommodate smaller group sizes and social distancing in 2021/22 we expect to adopt a similar approach. Timetables for part-time students will depend on the modules selected.

Assessment (changes for 2021/22 entry)

The experience of delivering courses in 2020/21 under the various Covid-19 restrictions has enabled us to better prepare and plan the delivery of our courses in 2021/22. We are confident the course can be delivered as planned and, therefore, do not anticipate having to make any further changes to the course, i.e. to the overall methods of assessments, in response to issues arising from the pandemic. However, if this becomes necessary, the changes will be highlighted to students via email before enrolment.

Changes are made to modules, including how they are assessed, as part of normal enhancement processes to keep our modules up to date with current developments in that subject area and in response to feedback received from students and other key stakeholders. Any changes to the overall methods of assessment for Year 1 of the course will be highlighted to students by email before enrolment.

If social distancing or lockdown restrictions are in place in 2021/22, online alternative options to formal on-campus examinations, including practical examinations, will be made available to students where possible.

Staff (changes for 2021/22 entry)

No changes are expected to the general level of experience or status of staff involved in delivering the course.

Staff are engaged in Continuous Professional Development activities to develop their teaching expertise, as part of the normal enhancement processes, to ensure that course teams have the required breadth of expertise.

Fees, funding and additional costs (changes for 2021/22 entry)

Tuition fees

There will be no changes to published tuition fees for 2021/22.

Additional costs (e.g. field trips, materials, equipment, etc.)

As we transition from the pandemic restrictions, we expect to be able to increase student access to on-campus facilities. Students will therefore have access to University computers and library facilities.

If, due to an increase in social distancing requirements or the enforcing of a lockdown, it becomes necessary to significantly increase the proportion of teaching delivered online, students will need a personal laptop or computer and access to the internet to participate in online teaching and learning activities. Students who are able to travel will have access to computers on campus, however, it should be noted that access to on-campus facilities might be restricted if social distancing requirements are enforced.

The University is committed to supporting students who are unable to access suitable technology to ensure equity of access in a blended delivery mode.

Funding

There will be no changes to any existing University funding arrangements for 2021/22. Currently there are no indications from the UK government that there will be any changes to government funding arrangements.

Fees and funding for international students

There will be no changes to published tuition fees or funding arrangements specifically relating to international students for 2021/22.

Work placements and field trips (changes for 2021/22 entry)

We are anticipating that placements (including work and clinical placements) and field trips included as part of the course will go ahead in 2021/22. However, to ensure students gain maximum value from placement activities, it may be necessary to reschedule them to later in the year, when any impacts from the pandemic restrictions are minimised.

Any proposed changes to placements or field trips would go through the University's agreed processes where the impact of the change will be carefully considered.

In the interests of the health and wellbeing of our students, all placement arrangements must be approved by the University's insurers and the appropriate risk assessments made before students are sent on a placement.

Courses which require placements or field trips to be completed in order to pass relevant modules will have contingency plans in place in the event that a placement or field trip cannot be completed due to another lockdown or more stringent social distancing measures.

Award, qualification and accreditation (changes for 2021/22 entry)

Qualification

No changes will be made to the qualification awarded, e.g. BSc (Hons), MSc, etc., as a direct result of the pandemic.

Changes can be made to courses, including the qualification awarded (although very rare), as part of normal enhancement processes in order to keep our courses up to date with current developments in that subject area. Any changes made to the qualification awarded for the course will be highlighted to students by email before enrolment.

Accreditation

The experience of delivering courses in 2020/21 under the various Covid-19 restrictions has enabled us to better prepare and plan the delivery of our courses in 2021/22. We are confident the course can be delivered as planned and in accordance with any professional body requirements. We do not anticipate making any further changes to courses in response to any issues arising from the pandemic and which would put at risk any professional body accreditation status.

Additional (changes for 2021/22 entry)

International students should maintain awareness of the UK government's and their home country's government advice on possible travel restrictions. The University will closely monitor advice and guidance published by the UK government and assess its impact on our international students. Appropriate advice and guidance will be provided as and when required.

Key information set

The scrolling banner(s) below display some key factual data about this course (including different course combinations or delivery modes of this course where relevant).