Physical Geography

Program Overview

The BSc in Physical Geography at Aberystwyth University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the Earth's physical systems, including its geology, climate, and ecosystems. Accredited by the Royal Geographical Society, the program emphasizes employability and equips graduates with transferable skills in problem-solving, data analysis, and communication. With a focus on global challenges, students explore topics such as environmental management, climate change, and sustainability.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This BSc in Physical Geography is accredited by the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG). It offers a broad range of geographical specialisms, opportunities, and facilities. The program aims to equip students with the skills, abilities, and expertise to address the challenges facing society today.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Core Modules:
• An introduction to Earth Materials (GS12520):
20 credits
• Earth Surface Environments (GS10520):
20 credits
• How to Build a Planet (GS11520):
20 credits
• Life on Earth (GS10720):
20 credits
• Living in a Dangerous World (GS10020):
20 credits
• Researching the World: data collection and analysis (GS13020):
20 credits

Year 2:

• Core Modules:
• Chemical Analysis of Natural Materials (GS21010):
10 credits
• Geographical Information Systems (GS23710):
10 credits
• Physical Analysis of Natural Materials (GS22010):
10 credits
• Quantitative Data Analysis (GS23810):
10 credits
• Options:
• Catchment Systems (GS25210):
10 credits
• Geographical Perspectives on the Sustainable Society (GS28910):
10 credits
• Physical Geography and Environmental Science Research Design and Fieldwork Skills (GS21120):
20 credits
• Reconstructing Past Environments (GS21910):
10 credits
• The Frozen Planet (GS23510):
10 credits
• Advanced Earth Materials (GS22620):
20 credits
• Food, Farming, Technology and the Environment (BR29020):
20 credits
• Fundamentals of Geochemistry (GS22720):
20 credits

Year 3:

• Core Modules:
• Geography Dissertation (GS34040):
40 credits
• Options:
• Applied Environmental Management (GS31120):
20 credits
• People, Climate and Environment: a Palaeoenvironmental Perspective (GS33720):
20 credits
• Volcanic Activity: Hazards and Environmental Change (GS30420):
20 credits

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Traditional exams
• Coursework
• Practical reports
• Oral presentations
• Web page design
• Short film production
• Online discussion forum contributions

Teaching:

• Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, laboratory and computer practicals, small group tutorials, field courses, and individual supervision of project work.
• Lecturers in the Department of Geography and Earth Science are all qualified to PhD level or working towards a PhD.

Careers:

Graduates of this program have found employment in various fields, including:

• Environmental consultants
• Planners
• Civil servants
• Surveyors
• Education
The program emphasizes employability, providing students with a solid foundation for a wide range of careers across various sectors. Graduates develop transferable skills such as:
• Enhanced mathematical and computational skills
• Effective problem solving and creative thinking skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Time-management and organizational skills
• Communication skills (written and oral)
• Self-motivation and self-reliance

Other:

• The program offers fieldwork opportunities in New Zealand, Crete, New York, and Ireland.
• Travel awards of up to £400 are available each year to fund student adventures.
• The program utilizes state-of-the-art teaching facilities with the latest technology to enhance learning.
• Fully stocked laboratories with analytical instruments (e.g., mass spectrometers and core scanners) are available for fieldwork and independent study.

Note:

The modules listed are intended for delivery during the next academic year and may be subject to change.