Environmental Geography (MSci)

Program Overview

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The Environmental Geography MSci at Cardiff University is a four-year program that provides students with an in-depth understanding of the Earth's systems and the science behind human impact on the environment. The program utilizes the latest technologies and cultivates student skills in geographic mapping, research, analysis, and problem-solving. The MSci track offers a dedicated fourth year for a research project under the guidance of a faculty member. Graduates are equipped with highly sought-after knowledge and skills for careers in conservation, environmental management, and other industries.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview

The Environmental Geography MSci at Cardiff University is a four-year, full-time program that provides students with an in-depth understanding of the Earth's systems and the science behind human impact on the environment. It delves into diverse environments worldwide, from polar regions to coral reefs, exploring the challenges they face in the present and future. The program utilizes the latest technologies and cultivates student skills in geographic mapping, research, analysis, and problem-solving. The curriculum utilizes Cardiff's prime location and incorporates regular day trips to Gower, Glamorgan Heritage Coast, and the Brecon Beacons in South Wales. The possibility of overseas trips, like previous expeditions to Netherlands and Switzerland, enriches the learning experience. The MSci track, available based on academic performance, offers a dedicated fourth year to tackle a captivating research project under the guidance of a faculty member and their research team. This year focuses on refining advanced research skills crucial for a career in academic research.

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Outline

The first three years of the MSci program mirror the Environmental Geography BSc curriculum, offering a solid foundation in Earth sciences and geography. This includes exploring oceans, climate, earth processes, and global environments, alongside mastering essential geographical skills like map and chart work, GIS, and basic geographical data analysis. Year one features core modules, introducing students to a broad range of topics. In year two, a combination of core and optional modules allows students to tailor their studies to their interests. Year three incorporates a research dissertation alongside core modules investigating extreme environments from a biochemical perspective. Year four, exclusive to the MSci program, delves into master's-level studies. It focuses on a research dissertation, an advanced research field course, and optional modules covering specialized topics like business and consultancy or scanning the research horizon.

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Assessment

The assessment strategy in the Environmental Geography MSci program emphasizes critical evaluation of knowledge and understanding in each module. This is achieved through a diverse range of approaches, including assignments, presentations, fieldwork, examinations, and a final dissertation. Students receive continuous feedback on their coursework, ensuring a clear understanding of their progress.

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Teaching

The program boasts a friendly and collaborative atmosphere, with world-leading experts engaged in cutting-edge international research as instructors. The teaching approach seamlessly blends theory and practice, incorporating lectures, laboratory work, fieldwork, tutorials, workshops, and seminars. Independent and group learning are encouraged throughout the program, developing a diverse skillset vital for future employment.

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Careers

With the planet facing environmental challenges, the Environmental Geography MSci equips graduates with highly sought-after knowledge and skills. This program opens doors to diverse industries and roles, particularly in areas like conservation and environmental management. Graduates also acquire essential employable skills relevant to sectors like insurance, finance, education, and planning. The advanced research skills and initiative gained through the MSci degree are highly valued by employers in academia, government, and industry. Notably, many senior positions in Environmental Geography careers require a minimum of a Master's degree.

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Other

The program recognizes the value of diversity and strives to cultivate an inclusive and supportive environment that embraces students from all backgrounds. The School utilizes a Learning Central website, providing access to a treasure trove of learning resources like videos, images, presentations, lecture handouts, bibliographies, further reading links, and more. Students also benefit from regular support through a personal tutor, allocated to them at the program's start.

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Fees for home status

We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees in the second and subsequent years of a course as permitted by law or Welsh Government policy. Where applicable we will notify you of any change in tuition fee by the end of June in the academic year before the one in which the fee will increase.

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Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland

We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Learn more about the undergraduate fees for students from the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man. We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year.

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Additional costs

The fieldwork costs for your core modules are included but you will need to contribute towards food if it is provided during the trip.

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Course specific equipment

You will need suitable clothing including warm weather, wind and storm-proof jackets and walking boots. The school will provide all health and safety equipment as well as specialised field equipment.

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Accommodation

We have a range of residences to suit your needs and budget.

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Living costs

We're based in one of the UK's most affordable cities. Find out more about living costs in Cardiff.