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*The Sunday Times Best Places to Live Guide, 2026
Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Undergraduate BSc (Hons)
Available in clearingGeography
Explore the links between people, places, and the planet. Combine fieldwork, projects, and investigation to understand the geography of our changing world.
Course overview
-
L790 -
L27 -
City Campus -
Full-Time -
3 Years -
21 Sep 2026
The Earth is changing rapidly. From climate change and extreme weather to sustainability, migration, resource management, and environmental justice, geography helps us understand some of the most important challenges facing society today.
Study the globe in action
Through exciting real-world experiences – fieldwork, research, and practical investigation – you’ll move beyond the classroom to explore how global geographical issues play out in real places and communities. You’ll develop the skills to ask important questions, gather and analyse evidence, and uncover solutions for positive change.
You’ll learn how to analyse environmental risks and manage natural resources; understand how communities adapt and thrive; and gain a deeper understanding of the forces shaping our planet.
As part of this course, you’ll:
- Study a mix of human and physical geography modules, exploring topics such as climate change, hydrology, environmental science, and natural hazard management
- Develop practical research skills through laboratory work, field trips, and hands-on projects
- Learn to analyse complex environmental and social issues using industry-relevant methods and technologies
- Benefit from personalised academic support through our personal tutorial programme
- Combine geographical theory with real-world experience to build the knowledge and skills employers want
Field trips
Bring geography to life through fieldwork and off-site visits. You’ll investigate real environmental and social challenges, gather and analyse data, and apply geographical theory to specific locations. These experiences will help you develop essential research skills while gaining a deeper understanding of how places are shaped by physical, cultural, economic, and environmental factors.
Build a diverse skill set
As well as specialist geographer skills, you’ll strengthen valuable transferable skills including teamwork, observation, problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking – preparing you for a range of future careers.
Expert practitioners
You’ll learn from experts who are shaping the future of geographical research. Our specialist teaching team includes research-active academics and experienced professionals whose expertise spans both human and physical geography. Their specialist knowledge and industry insight will help you explore some of the most pressing issues we face today and expand your understanding of the world around you.
Employability and placements
Build the experience, confidence, and professional skills employers value. Through our strong network of industry partners, you’ll have opportunities to gain relevant workplace experience and develop practical skills that enhance your career prospects. You can also choose to undertake a work placement module, enabling you to apply your knowledge in a professional setting while strengthening your personal, professional, and employability skills.
Why study the BSc Geography course at Leeds Beckett University?
- Bring geography to life through field trips that develop your practical research and fieldwork skills
- Investigate real challenges including climate change, sustainability, natural hazards, and urban development through geographical research and analysis
- Gain valuable professional experience with the opportunity to take a work placement module
- Benefit from personalised support through a dedicated tutorial programme
- Build industry connections through our strong network of employers and professional partners
Explore videos and blogs
100%
of BSc (Hons) Geography students were positive about the availability of specialist facilities
13th
Leeds Beckett University human geography courses ranked 13th in England
The 15 minute Neighbourhood Dr Karen Horwood, senior lecturer in planning and geography at Leeds Beckett University, talks through her mission to help the next generation of planners make decisions that take concerns around gender and climate change into account when planning and developing cities.
Everything you need to know
Discover all there is to know about the course, from entry requirements and fees to exploring the school you’ll be joining - we’ve got it covered.
Entry requirements
72
points required
If you’re unsure how to work out your UCAS points we have a UCAS Tariff Calculator which will do it for you. All you need to do is enter your qualifications and let the UCAS Tariff Calculator do the maths.
We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
Entry requirements
72
points required
48 from two A Levels or equivalent, excluding General Studies.
If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Mature Applicants
Our university welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. All students will be considered through the contextual admissions policy described above. If you do not meet the requirements through the contextual admissions policy, we may still be able to make you an offer if you have recent relevant work experience through our 'Recognition of Prior Learning' policy. Please ensure that you list both your qualifications and any relevant work experience in your application so that we can consider you under both schemes where applicable. All applicants should meet our standard entry requirements of GCSE grade 4 in English language and, where specified, Maths. Alternative qualifications such as functional skills are accepted in lieu of GCSEs for most courses.We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Additional entry requirements:
Verify your qualifications
If you are an international student, we can help you to compare and verify your qualifications. Please contact our International Office on +44 (0)113 812 1111 09.00 to 17.00 Mon-Thurs / 09.00 to 16.30 Fri GMT or email internationaloffice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.Need to improve your English Language skills?
Don't worry if you don't have the level of English required for your chosen course. We offer a wide range of courses which have been designed to help you to improve your qualifications and English language ability, most of which are accredited by the British Council. Check your English and find out more about our English courses.More questions?
No matter what your questions, we are here to answer them, visit our International website to get more information and find out about our online open days.Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.
Modules, teaching and learning
What you'll learn
Studying a series of contemporary events and prominent media, you'll learn the importance of the geographical discipline in understanding the world we live in. You'll be encouraged to make connections between key geographical theories and concepts, and the real world.
Examine the impact of global, national and local urban policies on the development of cities and how they are shaped both physically and environmentally.
Develop a range of skills that combine geographical theory and its practical application through fieldwork projects. You'll be introduced to research techniques and approaches used in geographical research. You'll also learn basic analytical skills in GIS and apply these to a research project.
This module provides an introduction to environmental science and global environmental issues, with particular reference to the science underpinning the control of air, noise and water pollution.
What you'll learn
With increased population, human activities and other natural impacts such as climate change transforming the environment, it is important to understand the factors that determine the abundance and distribution of species and their interactions in their environment. This module covers a range of fundamental topics in ecology, focusing on processes at different scales (individual, population, community and ecosystem). You will examine case studies which employ ecological principles to global challenges such as food security and biodiversity loss.
Building on the knowledge you have gained during the Sustainable Places and City & Society modules; you will explore how changing complex urban problems are addressed in the UK and internationally through policy and practical responses.
This module builds on the year one Introduction to Physical Geography module to examine earth surface processes and geomorphology in more detail. You will cover key geomorphological concepts and look at the relationship between earth surface processes and landforms. You will also gain hands-on experience of a number of earth surface processes as you carry out a small-scale field-based research project.
Explore the causes of natural hazard vulnerability (e.g. in relation to flood risk), conducting fieldwork and gathering evidence to evaluate key strategies in natural hazard management. You will be introduced to key theories and frameworks and use these to evaluate a range of alternative pathways to climate change adaption.
This module provides an introduction to remote sensing and the types of data generated, with consideration given to digital image acquisition, land observation satellites such as Landsat and the use of LIDAR for terrain mapping. You will cover data import into Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and consider the range of geographical and environmental applications to which it can be put.
Develop your employability skills through a ten-week work placement supported by a series of taught sessions. You will build subject specific, graduate employability and intellectual and cognitive skills, develop your professional skills and learn how to reflect on what transferable skills you need for your chosen career.
Develop an understanding of the theoretical background to the carrying out of research and foster the practical skills to be able to carry out research in the social sciences using a number of different research methods.
What you'll learn
Use the research methods, techniques and skills you have gained during your degree to carry out a sustained piece of research that examines current issues or problems in the fields of human geography and/or planning.
Option modules may include
Explore the different spaces and geographies of consumption, in terms of place identity, networks of retail and consumption, and commodity chains on a local, national and international level.
Study the scale and impact of biodiversity loss, conservation theory, and approaches for measuring and monitoring ecosystem changes. You'll examine different environmental organisations and the roles they play in conserving and mitigating against biodiversity loss.
Explore the physical processes that operate within coastal environments at a range of temporal and spatial scales, covering such issues as coastal geomorphology, sea-level change, societal interaction with coastal environments and near-shore environments. You will study theoretical aspects of coastal environments as well as engaging with more practical activities.
Develop your critical understanding and knowledge of heritage conservation theory and practice and its relation to urban regeneration and renaissance in the UK.
Examine the relationship between women and the built environment, thinking about women as designers, planners and builders. You will also look at the spaces inhabited by women, those designed for them, and those adopted by them.
Examine some of the key global challenges that governments face in an increasingly borderless world. You'll focus on three key areas: the threats of cross-border conflicts, the vulnerabilities of the existing global economy that exploits cheap labour and poverty, and the growing health concern of transmission of disease across borders.
Water is crucial for human civilisation. The supply and use of water are threatened by climate change and human use. The supply and distribution of water as a sustainable resource is changing rapidly; you will explore both the threats to water management and some of the projects and solutions that offer sustainable management strategies at local and global levels.
Study our frozen planet and consider how it is changing in response to a warming climate. The cryosphere plays an important role in the Earth system by driving, as well as responding to, global-scale changes. This module will address contemporary distributions of snow cover, sea ice, glaciers, and ice sheets. You'll explore the primary processes that control changes within the cryosphere, identify feedback mechanisms and engage with current research debates. Your numerical modelling skills will be developed to assess changes within the cryosphere and forecast its future evolution. A critical examination of this data will lead you to an understanding of the uncertainty in predictions of glacier extents, water resources and sea level rise.
Fees and funding
£9,790
UK
The annual tuition fee for students entering in the 2026/27 academic year is anticipated to be £9790 (the maximum annual tuition fee cap announced by the UK Government, which is subject to parliamentary approval).
For each subsequent year of study, the University may charge up to the maximum annual tuition fee cap set by the UK Government, which may increase in line with any uplift determined by the UK Government by law or government policy (such increases are expected to be linked to inflation).
£16,840
International 2026
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £16840.
Fees and funding
£9,790
For students entering in 2026
The annual tuition fee for students entering in the 2026/27 academic year is anticipated to be £9790 (the maximum annual tuition fee cap announced by the UK Government, which is subject to parliamentary approval).
For each subsequent year of study, the University may charge up to the maximum annual tuition fee cap set by the UK Government, which may increase in line with any uplift determined by the UK Government by law or government policy (such increases are expected to be linked to inflation).
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
Access to course resources, equipment and facilities, including:
- All domestic field trips will be included in the cost of your tuition fees.
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Essential Costs
- Your year 1 European field trip forms part of the Sustainable Urbanism module. You'll be required to make a financial contribution of £150, and you'll need to pay for your subsistence. Passing the module is not dependent upon taking part in the trip.
- Your year 2 international field trip is an integral part of the International Field Trip module and includes a £20 non-refundable deposit. You'll need to cover the cost of your flight, which will depend on your departure airport, time of booking and flight extras (£100). You'll also need to pay for your travel to and from the airport in your destination country. Your accommodation will be organised by the school and included in the cost of your tuition fees. Alternatively, you could complete a local field trip if you're unable to attend the international excursion.
Optional Costs
- Placement locations and experiences will vary throughout the course. You'll need to pay for any additional travel or dual accommodation costs.
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
£16,840
For students entering in 2026
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £16840.
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Access to course resources, equipment and facilities, including:
- All domestic field trips will be included in the cost of your tuition fees.
Essential Costs
- Your year 1 European field trip forms part of the Sustainable Urbanism module. You'll be required to make a financial contribution of £150, and you'll need to pay for your subsistence. Passing the module is not dependent upon taking part in the trip.
- Your year 2 international field trip is an integral part of the International Field Trip module and includes a £20 non-refundable deposit. You'll need to cover the cost of your flight, which will depend on your departure airport, time of booking and flight extras (£100). You'll also need to pay for your travel to and from the airport in your destination country. Your accommodation will be organised by the school and included in the cost of your tuition fees. Alternatively, you could complete a local field trip if you're unable to attend the international excursion.
Optional Costs
- Placement locations and experiences will vary throughout the course. You'll need to pay for any additional travel or dual accommodation costs.
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
Scholarships and bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that an education at Leeds Beckett University is open to all. If you're thinking of joining us for undergraduate study, you may be eligible for a non-repayable scholarship or bursary to help with the cost of university. To find out if you are be eligible visit our scholarships and bursaries page.
We also offer a range of non-repayable scholarships for international students. To find out if you may be eligible visit our scholarships for international students page and select your home country from the drop-down list.
Career prospects
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a course. Take a look at the team you’ll be working with, employability statistics and career prospects to help make up your mind.
Career Prospects
Geographers are problem-solvers, critical thinkers, and skilled analysts. As governments, organisations, and communities respond to environmental, social, and economic change, demand for graduates who can understand complex issues and make evidence-based decisions continues to grow.
You’ll graduate with a powerful combination of analytical, research, technical, and communication skills that are valued across industries, preparing you to make a meaningful impact in a rapidly changing planet. You’ll be prepared for careers spanning environmental management, sustainability, planning, geographic information systems (GIS), property and land management, international development, and education.
Graduates also progress into areas such as cartography, environmental consultancy, research, and roles within charitable or third sector organisations, applying their geographical knowledge to address social, economic, and environmental challenges. Career opportunities could include:
- Sustainability officer
- Property management and planning
- Market researcher
- Teacher
- Environmental consultant
- Geographical information systems officer
Graduate employment destinations
At Leeds Beckett, equipping you with strong employability skills for your future is at the heart of what we do. Some examples of employers that our BSc (Hons) Geography graduates have found careers at include*:
- Polygon
*Based on data from the past three years (HESA Graduate Outcomes 21-24)
School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing Careers Fair Our School holds a Careers Fair which is attended by over 25 major employers from the Civil Engineering, Construction, Architecture and Planning sectors giving you the opportunity to secure graduate roles, placements and part-time employment.
Our BSc (Hons) Geography allows you to study both human and physical geography before you specialise in your third year. If you want to understand the built environment and natural processes of the earth and their impact on the global and local environment, this course is for you.
Dr David Haigh
Head of Subject
Our Graduate Promise
We have a dedicated team of people who will support you with all aspects of your career planning, from day one until 18 months after you graduate.
Getting you career ready is an integral part of your university life and this is embedded throughout your lectures and seminars. Outside of your course there is a wide range of support available to help you achieve your career goals, including:
- Getting ready to apply for jobs
- Working on your CV
- Interview skills and assessment centres
- Connecting with employers and organisations
We’re ranked in the Top 10 universities in the UK for job prospects
(Student Crowd, 2025 - the only awards based entirely on student reviews).
Find out why...
Student life
At Leeds Beckett your experience is important to us, find out more about what to expect from your time on this course and life at uni.
BSc (Hons) Geography & BSc (Hons) Geography and Environmental Science at Leeds Beckett University Find out more about the BSc (Hons) Geography & BSc (Hons) Geography and Environmental Science courses at Leeds Beckett University. Hear from both students and staff as they take part in a field trip at Meanwood Park.
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