Looking for your first degree in Geography? See bachelors degrees in Geography in the USA
The study of the Earth's landscapes, peoples, places and environments, geography deals with social sciences and natural sciences of life on earth. You can study both physical and human geography, which will usually both be covered in an undergraduate geography degree. Geography plays an important role in our understanding of physical and spatial systems, environments and the organisation and characteristics of society as a whole.
An undergraduate degree in geography will cover the basic geographical concepts, before moving onto more complex and developed ideas. You will study modules in the areas of environment, society, economy, research methods and development.
Your degree will be delivered in a mixture of modes. This will include lectures and seminars, as well as possible field trips. The field trips will allow you to use the skills you have been developing in a practical environment.
Depending on where you choose to study, you may be able to specialise towards the end of your degree. This specialisation can influence the area in which you choose to work post-graduation. Common specialisations include:
If your degree requires you to write a dissertation, this will give you the opportunity to further research and explore a favoured area of geography.
The accreditation of your degree course will depend on where you choose to study, as well as your specific course. Typically, you can expect to be awarded a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of the Arts (BA). This can be influenced by the content of your degree.
Generally, an undergraduate degree in geography will take three to four years to complete. Foundation degrees, diplomas and certificates can last up to two years when studied full-time.
On successful completion of your degree, you can choose to either seek employment in your chosen area, or further your studies. Continuation of your studies might come in the form of a postgraduate degree, such as a masters or PhD, or a graduate diploma or certificate.
There are many different career opportunities for geography graduates, in a wide variety of fields. Options include town, urban and regional planning, as well as tourism and environmental management. Some jobs require you to undertake further studies, such as surveying. You could work in both the public and private sectors, in many areas.
Throughout your geography degree, you will have gained many different and applicable skills. These will include research, data collection and analysis, report writing, data presentation, problem-solving and effective communication skills.
Study in the USA
With over 1.1 million international students choosing the USA as their higher education destination each year, the country is one of the most popular study abroad destinations in the world. There are consistently many USA based universities and colleges ranked within the top 100 in the QS World University rankings, and it is not uncommon for the top 10 rankings to be dominated by American universities as well. As one of the biggest countries in the world, you will have many choices when it comes to deciding where you want to study abroad.
See our detailed guide to studying in the USA for international students.
Sign up to Сư³æ´«Ã½.com, the home of quality study abroad advice.
Sign up now
Read our selection of advice articles for those looking to start on their study abroad adventure. Covering topics from study visas, applications, funding and choosing the right course and institution:
Read Сư³æ´«Ã½'s suggestions on your first steps when deciding where to study abroad, with helpful tips to make your decision easier.
Find out more about international student visas for studying abroad, as well as how, where and when to apply for yours.
In this article we look at how to approach choosing where in the world you would like to study.
Find out more about English language tests, your options and what is required as an overseas student.
