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Geography at UEA
Find out more about studying Geography at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreMSci Geography with a Year Abroad
Key details
- Award
- Degree of Master of Sciences
- UCAS Course Code
- F80A
- Typical Offer
- AAB (specific subjects required)
- Contextual Offer
- BBB (specific subjects required)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2027
Course options
Other Start Dates
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1st
In the UK for Research Quality in Geography and Environmental Sciences
The Times University Rankings 2025Course Overview
Why MSci Geography with a Year Abroad at UEA?
Study geography in a pioneering environmental sciences school where understanding places, landscapes and change drives world‑leading research. You’ll learn to analyse landscapes and societies, interpret evidence and help shape fair, informed and sustainable responses to global challenges.
Why choose UEA
- Your own geographical pathway: Study landscapes, environments and societies together, then choose from wide-ranging modules to develop your specialist interests
- Modern geographical skills: Develop analytical and digital mapping skills that help you understand change, support real‑world decisions and strengthen your employability
- Global Research Experience: Learn from active researchers and gain international academic experience with the opportunity to study geography abroad in your third year
What is MSci Geography with a Year Abroad?
MSci Geography at UEA investigates how places and landscapes evolve and how people shape and respond to change. You’ll gain international academic experience through studying geography at a partner university in your third year.
You’ll tackle questions about environmental change, social justice, hazards, sustainability and community futures using physical and human geographical approaches. These perspectives help you understand patterns and processes across different scales.
You’ll develop advanced analytical, spatial and digital skills through Masters‑level study and practical geographical training. These capabilities prepare you to interpret evidence and address complex real‑world problems with confidence.
Year Abroad
You’ll spend your third year studying geography at one of our approved partner universities overseas. Your modules abroad count towards your MSci degree, and you can explore different academic perspectives, environments and teaching approaches. We’ll support you throughout the process, from selecting potential destinations to preparing your application and planning your programme of study. Final destinations can vary each year, so availability cannot be guaranteed. For further details, visit the Study Abroad section of our website.
Accreditations
This programme has been accredited by the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG). Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in geographical knowledge and skills and prepare graduates to address the needs of the world beyond higher education. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.
Careers
Career Pathways
With an MSci Geography with a Year Abroad, you could launch a career in:
- Environmental consultancy: Apply geographical insights to assess environmental impacts, support sustainable planning, and advise organisations on environmental performance
- Sustainability and environmental policy: Contribute to policies that address climate change, land use, conservation or resource management across government and industry
- GIS and spatial analysis: Use spatial data to map patterns, model change and support decision-making in sectors such as transport, planning and environmental monitoring
- Public engagement and communication: Help communities and organisations understand environmental challenges through outreach, communication and evidence-led engagement
- Behavioural or organisational change: Support organisations and local authorities to develop practices that improve environmental performance and promote sustainable behaviours
Career Support
Career development is embedded throughout the Geography degree. You'll strengthen your ability to interpret information, communicate findings, and work collaboratively — all essential skills valued by employers. Dedicated support from UEA’s Careers Service helps you explore career routes, meet potential employers, gain experience, and develop your professional profile. A year abroad can further develop your independence, confidence and international experience, strengthening your professional profile.
Discover more on our Careers webpages.
After the Course
As environmental and sustainability challenges become increasingly complex, graduates with strong geographical understanding are in high demand. You'll be well‑prepared for roles across environmental management, consultancy, planning, policy, development and research. Many graduates also progress to further study, including PhD research. Studying abroad can deepen your cultural awareness and enhance applications for global environmental and development roles.
Study and Modules
Structure
Your first year provides a solid grounding in the core themes of geography, introducing you to the natural processes shaping the physical environment alongside the social, political and economic forces influencing human activity. You'll explore key global challenges — from climate change and landscape dynamics to sustainability and development — and begin to understand how physical and human geographies interconnect.
You'll also develop essential research and analytical skills through structured training in using geographical information systems, interpreting patterns and relationships, and understanding how evidence is gathered and analysed. These skills are applied during a residential field course in Devon, where you practise collecting and interpreting data in a real‑world setting, supported by research‑active staff. This combination of foundational knowledge and practical experience prepares you for the more specialised choices ahead.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll deepen your understanding of both human and physical geography and begin shaping your degree through a choice of more specialised modules. You’ll can explore contemporary geographical challenges such as environmental change, global health and development, urban futures, ecological processes and landscape dynamics. Alongside this thematic development, you’ll extend your research capabilities through advanced training in data interpretation, spatial analysis and evaluating different forms of evidence.
A key part of year two is research skills in practice, which includes a six‑day residential field course in the Lake District. Here, you’ll apply your growing expertise to a focused geographical investigation, selecting from pathways led by research‑active academics. Optional international field experience in Europe may also be available, depending on your module choices.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
Your third year is spent studying geography at an approved partner university overseas. You’ll take modules that complement and extend your UEA studies, gaining new academic perspectives and working within a different educational environment. This year contributes to your MSci degree, and we provide support throughout the process, from initial applications to academic guidance during the year. Many students find that studying abroad enhances their confidence, independence and global awareness.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll consolidate your expertise and specialise further. A major component is your Independent Project, which carries a significant credit weighting. Working closely with an academic supervisor, you’ll investigate a topic that reflects your interests and career ambitions, applying the analytical and research skills developed throughout your degree.
You’ll also choose from a wide range of advanced optional modules across human and physical geography. These cover areas such as environmental change, hazards, conservation, resource management, global development and geospatial analysis, allowing you to shape a distinctive pathway and graduate with a strong, personalised academic profile.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
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Teaching and Learning, and Assessment
Teaching and Learning
You'll learn from research‑active geographers and environmental scientists whose work shapes understanding of places, landscapes and environmental change. Lectures introduce essential ideas, while seminars and practical sessions help you apply concepts to real‑world geographical challenges. Throughout your studies, you'll develop analytical, spatial and interpretive skills using a range of contemporary geographical approaches. Teaching draws on real examples, case studies and data to help you understand change across different scales.
In your first year, you’ll develop foundational geographical knowledge and analytical skills through practical sessions and a supported residential field experience. In your second year, you’ll enhance your spatial and analytical skills through specialised modules, including training in GIS and digital geographical techniques. In your year abroad, you’ll study geography overseas, taking approved modules that contribute to your degree and broaden your perspectives. In your final year, you’ll advance your expertise through optional modules and receive one‑to‑one academic supervision for your Independent Project.
Assessment
Modules use varied assessment methods to test specific learning outcomes. Coursework may include essays, projects, practical reports and presentations. Many modules contain multiple assessments to develop and evidence different skills. Formative activities provide feedback before you submit summative work.
In your first year, you’ll complete introductory assessments that build confidence in analysing information and communicating geographical findings. In your second year, you’ll complete applied assessments that develop skills in research design, evaluation of evidence, and effective communication. During your year abroad, your engagement with your studies at your host university contributes to your degree through agreed credit conversions. In your final year, you’ll complete advanced coursework and a weighted Independent Project that demonstrates independent research and critical engagement.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies(opens in a new window) page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes(opens in a new window).
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
AAB including Geography, Geology, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Contextual offer: BBB including Geography, Geology, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDD in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability, Forensic & Criminal Investigation, Countryside Management or Animal Management.
Contextual offer: DDM in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability, Forensic & Criminal Investigation, Countryside Management or Animal Management.
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Diploma: DD in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability, Forensic & Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus B at A-Level, or DD plus B at A-Level in Geography, Geology, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Contextual offer: DD in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability, Forensic & Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus C at A-Level, or DD plus C at A-Level in Geography, Geology, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Extended Certificate: D in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability, Forensic & Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus AB at A-Level, or D plus AB at A-Level in Geography, Geology, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Contextual offer: D in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability, Forensic & Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus BB at A-Level, or D plus BB at A-Level in Geography, Geology, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
NOTE: For Animal Management we accept Extended Diploma only as content not acceptable for other BTEC suites.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
Access to HE Diploma
Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3, including 12 credits in Geography, Geology, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
T levels
Obtain an overall Pass including an A in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. Accepted subjects: Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction, and Science.
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BSc Environmental Science with a Foundation Year.
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall including HL5 in Geography, Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches), Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
Irish Leaving Certificate
4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Geography, Geology, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Scottish Highers
AAAAA including Geography, Geology, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BBC including Geography, Geology, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies(opens in a new window) page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students(opens in a new window).
A levels
AAB including Geography, Geology, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall including HL5 in Geography, Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches), Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components).
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies(opens in a new window) for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
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- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2027/28 are:
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UK Students: £10,050
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International Students: £29,300
We estimate living expenses at £1,171 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here(opens in a new window).
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships(opens in a new window) for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
The optional residential field courses in the second and fourth years require a student contribution. You can find details for individual field courses in the module information.
You’re eligible for reduced fees during your year abroad. Further details are available on our Tuition Fees webpages.
There will be extra costs related to items such as travel and accommodation during your year abroad, which will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
How to apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information: