Human Geography BA (Hons)
Why choose this course?
This course focuses on how humans interact with their surroundings and gives you the opportunity to make a difference in the world and seek solutions to a range of human problems. Field trips offer you plenty of scope to travel in the UK and overseas, whilst optional modules let you tailor the degree to your own career goals.
| Attendance | UCAS code/apply | Year of entry |
|---|---|---|
| 3 years full time | L702 | 2020 |
| 4 years full time including sandwich year | L704 | 2020 |
| 4 years full time including foundation year | L703 | 2020 |
| 6 years part time | Apply direct to the University | 2020 |
| Location | Penrhyn Road |
Reasons to choose Kingston University
- This course received 100 per cent for satisfaction with academic support (National Student Survey 2018).
- 100 per cent of students from this course are in employment or further study six months after graduating (DHLE 2016/17).
- This course is accredited by the Royal Geographical Society. This means it contains a solid academic foundation as well as preparing you for the needs of the world beyond higher education.
Geography at Kingston
What you will study
Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list as these could change before your year of entry.
Year 1
Year 2
Optional Sandwich year
Final year
Year 1 provides a thorough foundation in human geography. You'll gain insight into the current concerns of humanity in our globalised world. Issues you will look at include global demography, resource scarcity and security, environmentalism and green politics, urbanisation, regeneration and gentrification, and inequality, poverty and exclusion. You will also develop research skills and be introduced to Geographical Information Systems (GIS).
Core modules
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.
Investigating the Earth and Environment
30 credits
This core module introduces techniques of fieldwork and the principles that form the basis of successful investigations within this, including statistics and subject specific to geographical, geological and environment degrees.
On successful completion of the module, you will be able to:
- prepare for and perform basic fieldwork techniques;
- produce a field report in the appropriate format; underpinned by field observations and records;
- undertake elementary data analysis;
- demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the fundamental scientific (and other) principles and techniques that are pertinent to the course; and
- apply undergraduate-level academic skills.
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 continues to focus on geographical concerns but more in-depth. Here you will examine the contours of capitalism and social and cultural geography. In addition, you will develop your research, critical thinking and practical skills through field trips in the UK and overseas and you will extend your GIS skills through project work.
Core modules
Design and Management of Projects (with GIS)
30 credits
Students design, manage and execute a geographical research project in a 'real-life' setting. Students are tutored in aspects of research design: defining research questions, research philosophy and appropriate methodologies. Students learn practical aspects of research design such as logistical considerations of time and budget limitations as well as data archiving (including digital and mobile technology) and location-based analysis. They will design and manage a field-based research project in a UK and/or overseas setting. A tutorial system will run in parallel to the taught elements of the module whereby students will integrate and develop their learning from this module to the wider academic and professional/ workplace context. The tutorial system will provide the development platform for the production of an independent research proposal. In addition, students will develop skills in the analysis and modelling of spatial data exploring the application of spatial statistical techniques using GIS.
Geographical Concepts and Methodologies
30 credits
This module focuses on various approaches and philosophies underpinning geographical studies and how these inform different methods of geographical research and enquiry. It also teaches students a range of appropriate research techniques adopted in geographical investigation. It offers students practical instruction in collecting good quality data with these techniques and also introduces students to the analysis and interpretation of field data. In addition, it reflects on ethical components of research.
Social and Cultural Geography
30 credits
This module is a Level 5 core module for Human Geography programmes. It can also be taken as an option module for those on other fields provided they have successfully completed the Level 4 module Introduction to Human Geography.
The module aims to introduce you to, and develop your understanding of, the core concerns of contemporary social and cultural geography: its substantive concerns, theoretical perspectives, and methodological innovations. The module evaluates the role of space and place in the construction of social relations and cultural identities and how these are differentiated according to the social constructions of class, gender, race and ethnicity, age, sexuality, and disability. It aims to develop skills of critical social and cultural interpretation through your engagement with how geography is central to the construction of social and cultural difference.
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.
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.
Final year includes modules that focus on urban geography, rural geography and development. In this year you will also be able to specialise in an area of your choice and complete an independent dissertation. You'll also have more opportunities for field trips in the UK and overseas.
Core modules
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
Banner image credit: Debbie Humphry
Field trips for this course
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 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: Malta
The Year 2 week-long field trip usually takes you to Malta. Staff will introduce you to the geographical setting, physical landscape and environment. A day focusing on human geography investigates social, political and economic developments in Malta. A day focusing on physical geography investigates the environmental concerns of the island, with particular emphasis on energy resources, water security and sustainability. 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: South Africa
In Year 3 you have the chance to go further afield, usually to South Africa. The ten-day trip forms part of the Development Geography module. Here you will 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.
Read about the field trip to South Africa, when students, who were in Cape Town to study and assist with local development projects, took the opportunity to kit out a group of delighted youngsters in £2,000 worth of brand-new Fulham Football Club kits.
Facilities
There are 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
After you graduate
Graduates find employment in a wide range of fields. They work in areas such as local government, retail, human resources, finance, insurance, ICT, education and research. Many go on to postgraduate studies in subjects such as conservation; rural estate management; economy, society and space; and cities, culture and social change.
What our students say
Studying Geography at Kingston
Kingston students Oliver Holland, Regina Hamilton and Francesca Green discuss their experiences on their respective geography undergraduate courses at Kingston University, including field trip destinations, module content and assessments, as well as what it's like to study in Kingston.
What our graduates say
Check out what our graduates have gone on to do and how studying at Kingston helped them achieve their goals.
Links with business and industry
Staff are involved in active research so illustrate teaching with up-to-date, relevant experience.
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).
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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.
Examples of placements
Placements can be with large multinational companies, international companies, local companies and small start ups; offering a diverse range of posts. Here are some examples of employers and roles:
|
Construction-based placement employers |
Construction-based placement roles |
|---|---|
|
RG Group |
Assistant site manager |
|
Science-based placement employers |
Science-based placement roles |
|
Reckitt and Benckiser |
Bioanalytical sciences |
|
Engineering-based placement employers |
Engineering-based placement roles |
|
Airbus |
Analysis of aircraft structure |
|
Computing and IS based placement employers |
Computing and IS based placement roles |
|
Disney |
Database co-ordinator |
|
Mathematics-based placement employers |
Mathematics-based placement roles |
|
Lloyds Banking Group |
Analyst |
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).
