MSci (Hons) in Physical Geography with Study Abroad, Lancaster University

Lancaster,

48 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

Discover the natural environment through Lancaster's exciting Study Abroad programme. This degree emphasizes hands-on fieldwork, giving students the chance to explore components of the Earth system like the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and geosphere, using a variety of modules taught within a unique natural landscape. Students will benefit from Lancaster's exceptional location, with opportunities for field trips to sites such as the Yorkshire Dales, Cumbrian coast, and Lake District. The programme includes international field trips and a year abroad, providing diverse environmental contexts. At Lancaster Environment Centre, students will have access to advanced labs, software, and even a weather station, ensuring practical and research skills are developed.

Why this course is highly recommended

Lancaster's Physical Geography course is highly regarded for its practical approach, strong emphasis on fieldwork, and excellent facilities. The location offers unique opportunities for exploring UK landscapes and international environments. The programme prepares students with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, making them attractive to employers tackling climate change, flood risk, and environmental management. Graduate outcomes are promising, with a median starting salary of £24,347, and alumni are pursuing diverse roles worldwide. The course’s flexible modules, international opportunities, and industry-relevant skills make it a standout choice for students interested in understanding and addressing environmental challenges.

Specialisation

The degree focuses on physical geography, covering key components like Earth's atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and geosphere. Students explore a broad range of modules related to environmental processes, landscape dynamics, climate change, aquatic ecology, geology, and biogeochemical cycles. There is an option to study modules in environmental chemistry, GIS, remote sensing, and geological hazards. The course also includes a year abroad and a strong emphasis on fieldwork and practical skills, allowing students to specialise in physical geography within various environmental and geographical contexts.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

31.48L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants typically need AAB at A-level, with a recommended inclusion of Geography or related subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Environmental Studies, Mathematics, or Physics. Other qualifications considered include the Access to HE Diploma with appropriate subject content, IB with 35 points overall, Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers, BTEC Extended Diploma, and T levels in Science with Distinction. GCSE requirements include Mathematics and English Language at grade 4/C or equivalent. English language proficiency requires an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates from Lancaster’s Physical Geography programme are well-equipped for careers addressing major environmental issues like climate change and flood management. Typical roles include environmental consultant, flood risk specialist, data analyst, research assistant, and more. Many alumni work in sectors such as government, consultancy, energy, conservation, and education. The course develops transferable skills in communication, project management, data analysis, and software proficiency, enhancing employability across diverse industries. With a strong foundation and practical experience, graduates can pursue opportunities worldwide, often benefiting from the programme’s industry connections and the Lancaster Award that enhances career readiness.

FAQs

What are the fieldwork opportunities included in the course?

The degree offers extensive field trips in the UK such as to the Yorkshire Dales, Cumbrian coast, and Lake District, along with international trips overseas. Students also have access to various local, national, and international field sites, including locations in Switzerland, Italy, and Croatia.

What modules can I expect in the first year?

First-year modules include Environmental Processes and Systems, Geographical Skills in a Changing World, and options like Aquatic Ecology, Atmosphere, Weather & Climate, Biodiversity & Conservation, and Geology, among others. These modules provide a comprehensive introduction to physical geography and related subjects.