Geography University of Aberdeen

Overview

At a Glance

Few other subjects cover such a diversity of phenomena, combining elements of the natural sciences, the social sciences and the humanities. During the first two years of the Geography programme of the University of Aberdeen, students are taught across the full breadth of the subject, covering major theories, perspectives and approaches in both human and physical geography.

Your Honours years, (third and fourth year) allow for deeper specialisation, when you will engage with your chosen area in greater depth. Honours courses link directly to staff research areas and include, for example, topics such as transport, rural change, sustainability, environment and conservation, hydrology, and glaciology. These options complement a set of core courses which deal with major conceptual and theoretical debates, as well as techniques and methods in Geography, including data analysis, GIS, mapping, and classic field-based and remote sensing techniques.

At Aberdeen, you can choose between studying Geography through either the Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Master of Arts (MA) degree programmes. The main difference between the BSc and MA programmes is the other subjects you will study alongside Geography. For the BSc, these will be mainly science subjects, while MA students can choose subsidiary courses from across the humanities and social sciences.

Both the BSc and MA Geography degree are accredited by the Royal Geographical Society.

Careers

Studying Geography develops a range of transferable skills such as: critical thinking, research design and data analysis skills, proficiency in IT and the ability to communicate effectively in various formats. Geographers also acquire specialist knowledge of cultural, political, economic and environmental issues and the ability to evaluate these from different perspectives – local, national and international. Employers value these attributes and Aberdeen graduates enter a wide range of careers including: environmental management, conservation and planning, government agencies, business and commerce, and work involving technical skills such as surveying, GIS and remote sensing.

Career Opportunities

• Geography Teacher

• Graduate Transport Consultant

• PR Account Executive

• Project Administrator

Accreditation

This degree holds accreditation from Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)