Geography and International Development

Program Overview

---

This BSc (Hons) Geography and International Development program equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the physical and human geography of our planet, as well as the social, economic, and political challenges faced by developing countries. Graduates gain skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, data analysis, and communication, preparing them for careers in development NGOs, policy organizations, and other sectors. The program is taught by leading researchers in the field and offers flexible study options, including evening and part-time.

Program Outline

---

Degree Overview:

It focuses specifically on international development. Led by leading researchers in the field, you will explore the relationships between space, place, culture, power, and physical landscapes in which we live. You will address issues such as climate change, global inequalities, and sustainable living in an urbanizing world.

---

Objectives:

• Acquire knowledge and understanding of the key concepts, theories, and methods in geography and international development.
• Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills.
• Gain practical skills in data collection, analysis, and communication.
• Appreciate the complexities of international development and the challenges faced by different regions and communities.
• Understand the role of geography in addressing contemporary global challenges, including climate change, poverty, and inequality.

---

Description:

This program combines the study of geography with a focus on international development. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the physical and human geography of our planet, as well as the social, economic, and political challenges faced by developing countries. You will learn key geographical skills and then tailor your degree to your interests by drawing from a range of option modules in international development, human and environmental geography, geographic information systems (GIS), and more.

---

Highlights:

• The program is taught by leading researchers in the field.
• You will have the opportunity to participate in field teaching and gain practical experience.
• The program is flexible and can be studied full-time or part-time.
• You will gain skills that are highly valued by employers in a variety of sectors.

---

Outline:

---

Course Structure:

The program consists of a total of 360 credits.

---

Year 1:

• Four compulsory modules: Community Action, Global Societies, Humans and the Environment, and Introduction to International Development.

---

Year 2:

• Three compulsory modules: Borders, Migration and Development, Culture and Development, and Methods, Analysis and Techniques.
• One Level 5 option module chosen from a selection of related subjects.

---

Year 3:

• Either a 30-credit literature review and three Level 6 option modules or a 60-credit research project and two Level 6 option modules.
• Level 6 options include Cities in the Global South, Climate and Society, Globalization in the Contemporary World, and Race, Environment and International Development.

---

Field Trips:

The program includes a range of exciting weekend field trips to destinations in the UK and beyond. These provide you with the opportunity to apply your learning in the real world.

---

Assessment:

---

Assessment Methods:

Assessment is an integral part of the program and helps to ensure you are meeting the learning outcomes. It includes coursework, examinations, and potentially project work, depending on your chosen modules.

• Coursework typically consists of essays, reports, presentations, and practical exercises.
• Examinations may be written exams, oral presentations, or take-home assignments.

---

Assessment Criteria:

Your work is assessed on the basis of the following criteria:

• Knowledge and understanding
• Critical thinking and analysis
• Research and communication skills
• Originality and creativity
• Professionalism and presentation

---

Teaching:

---

Teaching Methods:

The program is taught using a variety of methods, including:

• Seminars: These allow you to discuss and debate issues in more detail with your fellow students and tutors.
• Fieldwork: This provides you with the opportunity to apply your learning in the real world.
• Online learning: Some modules may include online learning resources and activities.

---

Faculty:

The program is taught by a team of experienced and qualified academics, many of whom are active researchers in their field.

---

Careers:

---

Careers and Employability:

Graduates of the program can pursue careers in a variety of sectors, including:

• Development NGOs
• Policy organizations
• Charities
• Corporate social responsibility
• Education
• Research

---

Possible professions include:

• Social researcher
• Charity officer
• Human resources officer
• Higher education lecturer
• Policy advisor

---

Other:

• The program is offered by Birkbeck, University of London, a world-class university located in the heart of London.
• Evening and part-time options are available.
• The program is supported by a comprehensive careers service.
• The program offers a strong research culture, with opportunities to get involved in cutting-edge research projects.
• The program welcomes applications from students from diverse backgrounds.

---

Part-time home students:

£6,935 per year

---

Part-time international students:

£13,215 per year

---

Full-time home students:

£9,250 per year

---

Full-time international students:

£17,620 per year Students are charged a tuition fee in each year of their course. Tuition fees for students continuing on their course in following years may be subject to annual inflationary increases. Already been to university? Birkbeck provides advice and financial support for students who experience hardship in meeting the travel costs of essential fieldwork or study visits. On this course, you will also have to pay for the following additional costs. Compulsory field trips are paid for by the College, apart from travel costs to/from the venue.