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It bridges natural and social sciences to investigate issues such as climate change, land use, resource management, environmental justice and sustainability. A degree in Environmental Geography equips students with a deep understanding of global environmental systems and human impacts on the planet. It is a highly relevant subject for those interested in tackling some of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century.
Why Study Environmental Geography?
Environmental Geography combines physical geography with aspects of ecology, geology, environmental science and social studies. It focuses on understanding environmental change, managing natural resources and supporting sustainable development. The degree builds skills in data collection, spatial analysis, research, critical thinking and communication. Students learn to assess environmental problems from multiple perspectives and explore solutions through scientific, policy and community-based approaches. It is an ideal subject for students who want to understand the Earth system and help shape a more sustainable future.
What Does an Environmental Geography Degree Involve?
The degree typically covers climate systems and atmospheric processes, biogeography and ecosystems, earth surface processes and geomorphology, environmental policy and planning, geospatial technologies including GIS and remote sensing, fieldwork techniques and environmental risk and resilience. Students gain practical experience through fieldwork, lab analysis and mapping projects. Many programmes include group research tasks, independent field-based projects and opportunities for placements or international study. Optional modules may include topics such as climate justice, natural hazards, urban sustainability or water management.
Studying Environmental Geography in the UK
Environmental Geography is offered at a wide range of UK universities, either as a dedicated degree or as a specialisation within geography or environmental science departments.
Higher entry requirements (AAB to A*AA): University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, University of Edinburgh, University of Durham
Typical entry requirements (ABB to BBB): University of Leeds, University of York, University of Exeter, University of Glasgow, University of Nottingham
Wider access and lower entry requirements (BCC to CCC or equivalent): University of Sunderland, Liverpool John Moores University, University of Brighton, University of Gloucestershire, University of Cumbria
A Level Geography is often preferred but not always required. Other science or social science subjects such as Environmental Science, Biology or Sociology may also be accepted.
A Level and Equivalent Entry Requirements
Entry requirements vary, but most programmes welcome applicants with a background in Geography, Environmental Science or another relevant subject. International Baccalaureate, BTEC and Access to HE Diplomas are also widely accepted. GCSEs in English, Maths and Science are commonly required. Applicants should be able to demonstrate interest in both physical and human dimensions of environmental change.
What Makes a Strong Application?
Universities look for students who are environmentally aware, curious about how the world works and motivated to make a difference. A strong personal statement may include references to environmental volunteering, geography field trips, independent research or current affairs. Experience with outdoor activities, conservation work or map-based projects can strengthen an application. Critical thinking, analytical skills and a global perspective are all important qualities for success.
Studying Environmental Geography in the European Union
Environmental Geography or closely related degrees such as Human-Environment Systems or Earth and Environmental Sciences are offered by universities across Europe. English-taught programmes are available in countries such as the Netherlands, Sweden, Germany and Finland. Institutions such as Wageningen University, Lund University and the University of Helsinki offer degrees focused on sustainability, climate change and land use planning. Programmes often include interdisciplinary coursework, policy components and international fieldwork.
Studying Environmental Geography in the United States
In the US, Environmental Geography is typically offered through geography, environmental studies or earth sciences departments. Programmes may be titled Environmental Systems, Human-Environment Geography or Geography with Environmental Emphasis. Universities such as University of California Berkeley, University of Colorado Boulder, Penn State University and University of Wisconsin Madison offer strong geography programmes with environmental specialisations. US degrees typically combine classroom study with field research, GIS projects, internships and interdisciplinary electives in environmental law, planning or sustainability.
Studying Environmental Geography in Canada
Canadian universities offer Environmental Geography through departments of geography, environmental studies or earth sciences. Institutions such as the University of British Columbia, McGill University, University of Toronto and University of Waterloo provide strong programmes that cover both scientific and human dimensions of environmental issues. Many programmes offer co-op placements, field schools and applied research opportunities. Canada’s varied environments offer rich contexts for studying forests, mountains, coasts, Arctic systems and urban environments.
Studying Environmental Geography in Australia and New Zealand
Environmental Geography is well established in Australian and New Zealand universities. Programmes are often titled Environmental Studies, Geography and Environmental Management, or Earth and Environmental Science. Institutions such as the University of Melbourne, University of Queensland, University of Sydney and University of Auckland offer degrees with strong field components and flexible pathways. Students can explore topics such as land degradation, Indigenous land rights, coastal change, and climate adaptation. Study often includes practical GIS training and work placements with environmental agencies or planning bodies.
Career Opportunities for Environmental Geography Graduates
Graduates are prepared for roles across environmental science, policy, education and planning. Career options include
• Environmental consultant
• GIS specialist
• Sustainability officer
• Environmental educator
• Urban planner
• Conservation officer
• Environmental policy advisor
• Natural resource manager
• Climate change analyst
• Environmental risk assessor
• Water resource specialist
• Environmental data analyst
• Hazard management officer
• Science communicator
• Environmental impact assessor
Graduates work for local authorities, government agencies, environmental charities, international NGOs, planning consultancies, research institutions and private companies. Many pursue further study in environmental management, climate science, spatial analysis or sustainable development.
Is an Environmental Geography Degree Right for You?
If you are interested in the natural world, care about sustainability and enjoy combining science with social understanding, then Environmental Geography could be the right choice. It offers the chance to explore how the Earth works, how people interact with the environment and how we can respond to global challenges. Whether you want to advise on climate policy, manage natural resources, educate communities or carry out field research, this degree gives you the tools to engage critically and practically with the environmental issues shaping our future.
