Geography A Level

Course code: FTB016

School of Humanities & Science

The Programme

This is a broad Geography course that will help you make sense of what is happening in the world today. The AS Level course covers two units; the changing physical environment, looking at climate change and tectonic and hydrological change; and the changing human environment, considering the themes of population and settlement.

The A2 Level focuses on contemporary themes and research in geography which covers the topics of coasts and development as well as an individual research investigation. The other area is sustainability which covers the topics of energy, cities, water and food.

The Programme Content

Geography is the study of how we relate to the natural environment and to the people in it. There is a huge variety of skills and topics involved in the subject so you should find it interesting whether you are also doing Arts, Social Sciences or Science subjects.

There are two units at AS Level:
Unit 1-Changing Physical Environment
This unit considers crucial topics facing the world today. It investigates the climate change threat. It answers questions such as what are the impacts of climate change and why should we be concerned? Also, we consider key issues such as tectonic and hydrological change. Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this unit.

Unit 2-Changing Human Environment
This unit looks at population and settlement. We consider how and why the population of the world is changing and the pressures that this puts on the earth. In the settlement topic we investigate the current issues in both urban and rural areas and how they are being addressed using a range of curr

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at grade C or above including English Language and Geography. However, applicants without Geography will be considered.

Costs

There will be a small contribution of around £20 required towards two local field trips. Study guides are available for each of the four units and it is recommended that the students buy each of these at a cost of £8 each.

Venue

Barnstaple, Main Site

Progression

Geography is a good foundation subject for many degree courses as it provides many opportunities for you to develop your skills and problem solving ability. Most geography degree students specialise in particular aspects of the subject. Careers can be found in the following areas:
Environment and sustainability - conservation work, environmental health work, environmental consulting
Society - teaching, campaigning, marketing
Business World - law, economic advising, insurance
Development and Global Issues - aid work, diplomat, human rights
Geographical Techniques - GIS specialism, surveying
Settlement - planning, estate agents
Travel, Tourism, Leisure and Culture - travel writing, travel agents

Length of Study

AS Level one year, A Level two years.

Academic Year

This course starts in the 2013 / 2014 academic year.