MA Geography, Society and Environment

Program Overview

The MA (Hons) Geography, Society and Environment program at Heriot-Watt University explores the relationship between people and their environment, focusing on urban design, social policy, and sustainable development. Through a cross-disciplinary approach, students gain skills in digital mapping and collaborative problem-solving, preparing them for careers in urban planning, social policy, and environmental consultancy. The program is ranked 5th in the UK for Town and Country Planning and offers opportunities for field trips and study abroad.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

MA (Hons) Geography, Society and Environment

aims to provide students with a deep understanding of human geography and related topics such as urban design, social policy and equity, sustainable cities, and sustainable development. The program explores the interaction between people and the places and environments they inhabit.

Objectives:

• Examine the relationship between people and their environment.
• Analyze the factors that shape cities and neighborhoods.
• Explore the impact of the built environment on human behavior.
• Investigate the factors that make places healthier, happier, and more resilient.
• Equip students with the skills and knowledge to work in multi-disciplinary teams and solve real-world problems.

Program Description:

The program utilizes a cross-disciplinary, industry-focused, and problem-based approach to learning. Students will gain valuable skills in digital mapping through geographical information systems and collaborative group working.

Focus Areas:

• Aging populations
• Social inequalities
• Nature-based solutions
• Sustainable development

Outline:

Year 1:

• Provides introductory knowledge and understanding of subjects relevant to real-world issues across the globe, such as human geography, geography in the city, our dynamic earth, Scottish geographies and Geography Today.
• Mandatory courses include:
• Geography Today
• Dynamic Earth 1
• Introduction to Human Geography
• Shaping Tomorrow Together A
• Dynamic Earth 2
• Scottish Geographies: Fieldwork Observation
• Human Geography & The City
• Shaping Tomorrow Together B

Year 2:

• Builds upon the foundation laid in Year 1 and introduces more specialized courses.

Year 3 & 4:

• Focuses on specialization in human geography, studying cities, place and place making, and urban development.

Teaching:

• The program is taught by research-active geographers and academics from The Urban Institute.
• Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, tutorials, and fieldwork.

Careers:

• Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in a variety of fields, including:
• Urban planning
• Social policy
• Environmental consultancy
• Research
• Education

Potential career paths:

• Conservation and environment professionals
• Teaching professionals

Graduate salaries:

• The program is ranked 5th in the UK for Town and Country Planning in the Complete University Guide 2021.
• The program is delivered full-time and takes four years to complete.
• Students have the opportunity to participate in field trips and study abroad programs.
• The program has strong industry links and provides students with opportunities to gain practical experience.

Conclusion:

MA (Hons) Geography, Society and Environment at Heriot-Watt University is a comprehensive program that provides students with a strong foundation in human geography and related fields. The program is well-suited for students who are interested in pursuing careers in urban planning, social policy, environmental consultancy, research, or education.

• Scotland: Paid by SAAS
• England / Wales / N Ireland / Rep of Ireland: £9,250
• International: £19,744