Geography (BSc (Hons)) at University College Cork

The Geography BSc provides insights into the links between the physical, human and environmental processes on planet Earth and explores the major issues facing society in the 21st century, such as climate change; water, food and energy security; land degradation; and migration and economic changes.

Geography is about how people relate to, and interact with, the spaces, places, landscapes and environments in which they live, and how those places engage with the larger world. 

Geographers at UCC develop a wide range of technical, computing, laboratory, field and desktop skills which equip them to do a range of different jobs.

Geography at UCC provides you with a broad understanding of the human, environmental and natural issues facing society with a focus on real-world questions.

The BSc in Geography is primarily taught by staff from the School of Geography and Archaeology, with inputs from staff from other schools in the College of Science, Engineering and Food Science, particularly in the discipline of geology.

This programme provides an indepth study of the relationships between the physical, human and environmental processes on our planet.

You will undertake a range of field studies each year in different geographical locations, allowing you to gain the practical skills required of scientific geographers in the workplace. There is a large element of practical work which reinforces teaching and reading.

The research project will encourage you to develop and test your ideas and gain independence in thinking and reaching conclusions based on data you collect. 

You will have an element of choice in the modules you take, as well as the topic of your literature review and final research project

Placement or Study Abroad Information

A work experience module is available to Year 4 students, enabling them to spend 6-10 weeks in a structured working environment. Several successful partnerships have been developed in this way, resulting in students having access to data and knowledge for their final year project, and so enabling them to undertake novel and innovative research that directly supports the work of a commercial or government enterprise.

Students have the option of spending all or part of the third year at one of UCC's partner universities in Europe under the ERASMUS scheme, or in North America.

Skills and Careers Information

Geographers who have been trained in scientific methods are involved in a wide variety of environmentally based careers that draw upon laboratory and computing skills and experience. Some jobs use specific geographical knowledge, while others draw on the range of other skills learned through the degree.

Typical careers for BSc Geography graduates include:

• land surveying and planning
• mapping
• Earth resource evaluation and management
• development and conservation
• nature and heritage
• environmental management
• teaching.

Transferable skills are also fostered through different learning approaches, including critical thinking, problem solving, report writing, oral presentations, statistical analysis, independent research and time management.