Human Geography and Planning with a Foundation Year (BSC)
- Subject area: Geography (human) and planning
- UCAS code: LK71
- Next intake: September 2026
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode: Full time
Why study this course
Discover how social sciences help us understand how societies and organisations work, while exploring the changing nature of space and place and how they impact the social, political, economic and environmental challenges which affect how and where we live.
Global Top 100
We're Top 100 in the world for geography in the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026.
Field-based studies
Field visits and field study modules to apply learning to real-world contexts and develop practical skills.
Define the future
Gain the knowledge and motivation to tackle global challenges, transforming our world and improving where and how we live.
Placement opportunities
Develop the skills, confidence and connections to accelerate your career.
Year abroad
Gain global experience and broaden your horizons by studying abroad with the 4-year course option available after enrolment.
Our Human Geography and Planning with a Foundation Year programme provides a supportive and intellectually engaging route into undergraduate study.
You’ll explore some of the big questions at the heart of the social sciences: how societies are organised, why inequalities persist, how communities and organisations are shaped, and how social, political and economic forces influence the world around us. You’ll also consider how the social sciences help us understand and respond to contemporary challenges such as climate change, global inequality, digital transformation and social justice.
You’ll be introduced to a range of perspectives from sociology, politics, business studies, economics, geography, social policy and related disciplines. You’ll explore how social scientists investigate society and analysis – all the while developing the academic skills needed to succeed on your chosen Human Geography and Planning programme.
Our Human Geography and Planning programmes provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the role of space and place in shaping economic, social, cultural and political activity at different scales and across different cultural contexts.
You'll develop your knowledge and critical understanding of the complex relations between the natural and human world and an awareness of how places outside your everyday experience are created. You'll learn how to use this knowledge to shape the views and actions of elected decision-makers, the voluntary sector and industry in order to improve society.
Fieldwork and experiential learning are key in the development of your knowledge and skills in planning. This programme provides a range of opportunities for you to develop this knowledge and skill set, including in-module field visits and group data collection and analysis assessments.
Subject area: Geography (human) and planning
Entry requirements
We accept a combination of A-levels and other qualifications, as well as equivalent international qualifications subject to entry requirements. Typical offers are as follows:
A level
CCD-CDD
Extended/International Project Qualification: Applicants with grade A in the EPQ/IPQ will typically receive an offer one grade lower than the standard offer. Please note that any subject specific requirements must still be met.
- Our grade range covers our standard offer and contextual offer. We carefully consider the circumstances in which you've been studying (your contextual data) upon application. Eligible students will be given an offer that is lower than the standard offer (usually the middle or lower end of the advertised grade range).
- Where there is no grade range advertised and/or where there are selection processes in place (like an interview) you may receive additional consideration in the selection process.
Learn about eligible courses and how contextual data is applied.
International Baccalaureate
27-26 overall or 554-544 in 3 HL subjects.
Baccalaureate Wales
From September 2023, there will be a new qualification called the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales (level 3). This qualification will replace the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (Welsh Baccalaureate). The qualification will continue to be accepted in lieu of one A-Level (at the grades listed above), excluding any specified subjects.
GCSE and other essential requirements
You must have or be working towards:
- English language or Welsh language at GCSE grade C/4 or an equivalent (such as A-levels). If you require a Student visa, you must ensure your language qualification complies with UKVI requirements.
We do not accept Critical Thinking, General Studies, Citizenship Studies, or other similar equivalent subjects.
We will accept a combination of BTEC subjects, A-levels, and other qualifications, subject to the course specific grade and subject requirements.
English language requirements
GCSE
Grade C or grade 4 in GCSE English Language.
IELTS (academic)
At least 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each subskill.
TOEFL iBT
At least 90 overall with a minimum of 17 for writing, 17 for listening, 18 for reading, and 20 for speaking.
PTE Academic
At least 69 overall with a minimum of 59 in all communicative skills.
Trinity ISE II/III
II: at least two Distinctions and two Merits.
III: at least a Pass in all components.
Other accepted qualifications
Please visit our English Language requirements page for more information on our other accepted language qualifications.
Criminal convictions
You are not required to complete a DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) check or provide a Certificate of Good Conduct to study this course.
If you are currently subject to any licence condition or monitoring restriction that could affect your ability to successfully complete your studies, you will be required to disclose your criminal record. Conditions include, but are not limited to:
- access to computers or devices that can store images
- use of internet and communication tools/devices
- curfews
- freedom of movement, including the ability to travel to outside of the UK or to undertake a placement/studies outside of Cardiff University
- contact with people related to Cardiff University.
Other qualifications from inside the UK
BTEC
MMM-MMP in a BTEC Extended Diploma in any subject.
T level
Acceptance of T Levels for this programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Academic School. Consideration will be given to the T Level grade/subject and grades/subjects achieved at GCSE/Level 2.
Please see our admissions policies for more information about the application process.
Tuition fees for 2026 entry
Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on your fee status. Your fee status could be home, island or overseas.
Learn how we decide your fee status
Fees for home status
| Year | Tuition fee 1 | Deposit |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation/ preliminary year | £5,760 | None |
| Year one | £9,790 | None |
| Year two | £9,790 | None |
| Year three | £9,790 | None |
1 Home status tuition fees are charged at the maximum fee set by the Government each year. If the tuition fee cap changes before you start your course, we’ll email you to let you know. We’ll explain any changes to your tuition fees, and allow you to withdraw without penalty if you decide not to study with us.
Tuition fees may increase for subsequent years of your course if the fee cap changes. Learn what happens if tuition fees increase.
Learn more about our tuition fees
Fees for overseas status
This course does not currently accept students from outside the UK/EU.
Financial support
Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria. For more information visit our funding section. Please note that these sources of financial support are limited and therefore not everyone who meets the criteria are guaranteed to receive the support.
Additional costs
Accommodation
We have a range of residences to suit your needs and budget. Find out more on our accommodation pages.
Living costs
We're based in one of the UK's most affordable cities. Find out more about living costs in Cardiff.
Course structure
You’ll study for a minimum of 4 years, including your integrated foundation year.
In each year of the programme, you’ll study 120 credits from a blend of core and optional modules.
The modules shown are an example of the typical curriculum and will be reviewed prior to the 2026/2027 academic year. The final modules will be published by September 2026.
Foundation/ preliminary year
The foundation year is designed to build confidence, academic capability and subject-specific understanding through expert teaching, tailored support and an inclusive learning environment.
You’ll study 6 core modules of 20 credits each, carefully designed to prepare you for success in your chosen Human Geography and Planning programme.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Project | CH0008 | 20 credits |
| Skills for Knowledge, Independence, Lifelong Learning | CH0009 | 10 credits |
| Global Humanities: Culture, Identity and Place | CH0010 | 20 credits |
| Reading the World: Texts, Images and Interpretation | CH0011 | 20 credits |
| Humane Futures: Ethics, Technology and the Human World | CH0012 | 20 credits |
| Making Meaning: Creativity and Communication | CH0013 | 20 credits |
Year one
On successful completion of the foundation year, you’ll progress into one of our undergraduate Human Geography and Planning programmes. Your options include:
- Human Geography (BSc)
- Human Geography and Planning (BSc)
- Urban Planning and Development (BSc)
In year 1, you’ll lay the foundations for later specialist study: you’ll take a combination of core and optional modules designed to introduce you to the key ideas and research in your chosen subject.
The exact blend of core and optional modules will depend on which programme you choose. You can see examples on our Human Geography and Planning subject pages.
Year two
In year 2, you’ll build on the core knowledge developed in year 1 and take a more in-depth look at your chosen subject. You’ll be encouraged to study and learn more independently, giving you the opportunity to read more widely and to develop your own interests.
You’ll again study a mix of core and optional modules. Your personal tutor will be available to help you chose modules that best suit your interests and future career choices.
Year three
In year 3 you’ll reflect on what you’ve learned so far. You’ll consolidate your knowledge and continue to explore topics that best suit your future career aspirations through a range of optional modules.
Your degree will culminate in a substantive piece of original research, which offers you the chance to design, conduct and present a piece of primary research on a topic of your choosing.
The University is committed to providing a wide range of module options where possible, but please be aware that whilst every effort is made to offer choice this may be limited in certain circumstances. This is due to the fact that some modules have limited numbers of places available, which are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, while others have minimum student numbers required before they will run, to ensure that an appropriate quality of education can be delivered; some modules require students to have already taken particular subjects, and others are core or required on the programme you are taking. Modules may also be limited due to timetable clashes, and although the University works to minimise disruption to choice, we advise you to seek advice from the relevant School on the module choices available.
Learning and assessment
Our approach is based on a commitment to provide the highest quality teaching. As far as possible, we aim to teach in small groups because we believe this encourages a more positive learning environment between staff and students and among students themselves. Typically, you'll study 6 modules per year and will receive 15 hours of guided study per week.
We offer a supportive learning environment, which will help you acquire a range of skills and a wealth of specialist knowledge. You'll develop intellectual skills, such as critical thinking, close analysis, evaluating evidence, constructing arguments, using theory and the effective deployment of language in writing and in debate. We also help you gain experience in team working, independent research and time management.
How will I be assessed?
A range of assessment methods are used, including essays, presentations, portfolios and creative assignments.
We encourage innovation and creativity in the delivery and assessment of teaching and learning, for example the use of geographical information systems, cartographic tools, digital media and field study visits.
Assessments are a means of developing your capacities to gather, organise, evaluate and deploy relevant information and ideas from a variety of sources in reasoned arguments. Dedicated essay workshops and individual advice enable you to produce your best work, and written feedback on essays feeds forward into future work, enabling you to develop your strengths and address any weaker areas.
The final-year dissertation provides you with the opportunity to investigate a specific topic of interest to you in depth and to acquire detailed knowledge about a particular field of study, to use your initiative in the collection and presentation of material and present a clear, cogent argument and draw appropriate conclusions.
What skills will I practise and develop?
The Learning Outcomes for this Programme describe what you will achieve by the end of your programme at Cardiff University and identify the knowledge and skills that you will develop. They will also help you to understand what is expected of you.
On successful completion of your Programme you will be able to:
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.
Careers and placements
Career prospects
We are committed to helping you achieve your professional ambitions, providing you with the skills, curiosity and confidence to make your mark in your chosen field.
There are numerous exciting and varied career opportunities open to graduates of this degree programme, and many occupy key positions in a range of public, private and third sector organisations. These include national and local governments, business consultancies, sustainable energy centres, environmental agencies, housing strategy companies, construction, surveying
Specific planning career pathways include surveying, design and development, as well as fields such as transport, economic development and urban regeneration. You could practise in local planning authorities, local and national government, neighbourhood planning organisations, transport organisations, private planning consultancies, private developers and environmental organisations in the United Kingdom, mainland Europe and internationally.
Placements
You can choose to study a professional placement year as part of your degree. Should you opt for this, your degree will become a 5-year programme.
Fieldwork
Each academic year offers a subsidised field study visit which allows you to research and investigate a live issue/case study, on location.
In year one, these field study visits are local to the Cardiff city region. In year two and three, you can opt for a residential field study visit. These often encompass UK and overseas destinations. Please see the additional costs section for more information.
Next steps
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How to apply
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HESA Data: Copyright Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited 2021. The Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited cannot accept responsibility for any inferences or conclusions derived by third parties from its data. Data is from the latest Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019/20, published by HESA in June 2022.
