Geography, BSc (Hons)

In the first year of Physical Geography, we introduce the range of our research specialisms and research methods, including residential fieldwork overseas (e.g. Portugal). Elective modules in the second and third years progressively lead to material at the cutting-edge of research and include optional overseas fieldwork.The majority of modules in the second and third year focus on physical geography and environmental topics. In the second and third year, you may take integrated modules (with a mixture of human and physical geography) and one module from the Geography BA (Hons) list (subject to timetable compatibility).Students on this degree learn through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, practical classes, tutorials, fieldwork, group projects, student presentations, and self-directed learning, such as research, reading, and writing. All of these are informed by the interplay between theory and practice.Seminars, tutorials, and practical classes are much smaller groups than lectures, small enough to allow one-to-one interaction with our academic staff. Practical's also allow hands-on experience of the work professional geographers undertake. The same is true of fieldwork, which at Durham is heavily subsidized and consists of engaging in geographical work in the field with members of academic staff. Students can also attend an extensive programme of research-focused seminars where staff and visiting scholars present their cutting-edge research.This emphasis on research-led small-group and practical teaching reflects a conscious choice to enhance the quality of the learning experience rather than the number of formal sessions. The degree is designed to feature fewer formal large-group sessions and involves more research as you move from your first to your final year. In this way, the degree systematically transforms you from a consumer of knowledge in the classroom to a generator of knowledge, ready for professional or postgraduate life. Small-group teaching and one-to-one attention from the personal academic advisor is provided for all students when they enter the course and regular meetings take place throughout their degree.