Human Geography and Planning (BSc)

Our teaching is led by experts in the field of human geography and planning.

We aim to teach in small groups where possible, which establishes a positive learning environment with engagement between you and the academic staff as well as your fellow students and peers.

Typically, you’ll study 6 modules each year and receive 15 hours of guided study each week.

We offer a supportive learning environment that will help you develop specialist knowledge and a wide range of skills. These include critical thinking, close analysis, evaluating evidence, constructing arguments, using theory, writing and debating clearly, teamwork, independent research and time management. 

How will I be supported?

As well as regular feedback from your personal tutor, you’ll have a reading week each semester for guided study and a chance to catch up on assessed work, reading and revision.

You’ll use Learning Central to access relevant multimedia material, presentations, lecture handouts, bibliographies, links, electronic exercises and discussion circles.

You’ll also have access to University support services, including Student Futues (careers), counselling, money advice, disability support co-located in the Centre for Student Life. Libraries and resource centres to support your studies will also be available.

We’ll give you frequent feedback on your work to help you understand where you're doing well and areas that might need attention. This can include oral feedback during tutorials, personalised feedback on written work, feedback lectures, general written feedback and feedback on tutorial performance.

You’ll receive written feedback on your coursework and general feedback after the May/June examination period. You’ll also be able to discuss your overall performance with your personal tutor. 

How will I be assessed?

Assessment methods include essays, presentations, portfolios and creative assignments.

We encourage innovation and creativity in teaching, learning and assessment. This can include the use of geographical information systems, cartographic tools, digital media and field study visits.

Assessments will help you gather, organise, evaluate and use relevant information and ideas to build reasoned arguments. Dedicated essay workshops and individual advice will help you produce your best work, while written feedback on essays will feed into future work and help you develop your strengths and address any weaker areas.

The final-year dissertation gives you the opportunity to investigate a specific topic that interests you. You’ll develop detailed knowledge of a particular field of study, use your initiative to collect and present material, build a clear argument and draw appropriate conclusions.

What skills will I practise and develop?

The Learning Outcomes for this Programme can be found below:

On successful completion of the Programme you will be able to demonstrate:

Knowledge & Understanding:

• Explain the historical, philosophical and contemporary components of human geography 
• Appraise a practical issue or problem for investigation, study or research, devising and implementing a strategy for collecting, assessing, analysing and presenting relevant data and information.
• Explain and analyse the nature of the planning system in managing change in the built and natural environment with reference to the planning policies of government and local government, and other institutions
• Synthesise, compare and assess evidence to evaluate planning and related applications , and/or the production of planning strategies, policies and plans
• Choose and demonstrate practical project-based, design and financial appraisal skills from an urban design perspective. 

Intellectual Skills:

• Synthesise, analyse and critically review scholarly work
• Compose a convincing argument
• Demonstrate and explain respect for equality of opportunity, social and cultural diversity, and the sustainable use of natural and human resources
• Summarise, explain and apply the ethics of professional practice by relating the Royal Town Planning Institute’s Code of Professional Conduct to their own practical experience and continuing professional
• Summarise, explain and apply key principles for the protection of personal health and safety at work and the health and safety of others.

Professional Practical Skills:

• Presentation skills
• Design and demonstrate a self-critical approach to becoming a reflective practitioner, in relation to current planning practices as well as the personal skills and knowledge that need further development

Transferable/Key Skills:

• Perform different methods of effective communication
• Demonstrate critical thinking and writing skills
• Identify team-working skills by responding appropriately to peer/colleague requests and making clear one’s own demands on colleagues
• Perform effective self-management by setting and adhering to work priorities, making effective use of time and identifying opportunities for input from colleagues, other professionals and/or stakeholders