School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences

MSc Human Geography Research

Explore the diverse and exciting subject of human geography. Geographers are fascinated by society and environment and examine how places are understood, imagined, used, shared and contested by different peoples. Geographers study the world at a range of scales, from the local to the global, and have a keen appreciation of how places are connected.

Postgraduate opportunities – virtual drop-in session

Find out more about postgraduate study in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences at our virtual drop-in session.

Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2022*

The University of Plymouth has been named among the top 5% of universities globally in 2022 for its contribution to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals*, in particular, work on marine issues and on climate change. In the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, sustainability is at the heart of our research and teaching. From sustainable cities, affordable and clean energy, to climate policy, biodiversity, and natural hazards, our academic staff work with partners locally and overseas to help understand, communicate and solve fundamental and pressing sustainability challenges.
Find out more in our press release 

Careers with this subject
With an onus on independent, supervised study you'll be prepared for the nature of independent PhD research and will be able to develop your own in depth research interests which will prime you for further study. The key skills and knowledge gained in this course will prime you for jobs in market research, local government and consultancy.
There are opportunities to apply for PhD funding from the South West Doctoral Training Partnership.

Course details

  • Year 1

  • The aim of this MSc programme is to offer a high quality and distinctive course that develops students into critical and effective researchers in human geography. The programme provides training in qualitative and quantitative research techniques and develops a critical knowledge of human geography research. It is delivered in an environment underpinned by research excellence. Working with a supervisor you'll benefit from high levels of contact time and support as you produce your extended dissertation and immerse yourself in to a real world issue.

    Core modules

    • MSc Dissertation (GEES520)

      The student will complete an independent research project that they have designed in semester 1 as part of their research skills development. The record of the research will communicate the project aims, research problem, methodology, data analysis, interpretation, discussion/synthesis and conclusions in the format specified and to a professional standard.

    • Research in Human Geography Philosophies and Design (GEES522)

      This module provides a thematic synopsis of research design in human geography. This module provides an overview of research theories, philosophies and methodologies used in contemporary human geography. It provides a paradigmatic outline of research in the discipline, emphasising current thinking and debates.

    • Quantitative Research in Human Geography (GEES523)

      This module introduces quantitative research, data collection and analysis in human geography. It teaches key quantitative methods employed by professional geographers and provides opportunities for students to gather, analyse and present primary and secondary data. Introduction is given on the use statistical software in this process. The importance of research design and the formation of research questions are emphasised.

    • Qualitative Research Methods in Human Geography (GEES524)

      This module provides an introduction to qualitative research methods in contemporary human geography and provides opportunities for students to experience and apply different research techniques.

    • Applied Research in Human Geography (GEES525)

      This module offers the opportunity to apply research skills in a practical context. It provides training on the writing of research proposals. It also encourages students to work critically and reflexively in the context of an academic research project.

Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:

MSc Human Geography Research Programme Specification September 2023 6275

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.

Entry requirements
An honours degree (2:1 or above) in a relevant discipline or overseas equivalent.
If you have overseas qualifications you can check their comparability with the UK equivalent through ECCTIS, who provide an advisory service. 
If your first language is not English then evidence of English proficiency is required. For further advice on the appropriateness of overseas qualification and proficiency in the use of English, please contact our International Office. 
The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each element.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary. 

Fees, costs and funding
Student 2023-2024 2024-2025
Home £9,950 £10,400
International £16,800 £17,600
Part time (Home) £550 £580
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates

If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
  • 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students 
  • £2,000 discount on tuition fees for international students 
.

Postgraduate scholarships for international students

We offer several scholarships for international students who wish to study postgraduate taught (PGT) degree programmes.

How to apply
When to apply
Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full.
Before you apply
Familiarise yourself with the information required to complete your application form. You will usually be required to supply:
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • evidence of English language proficiency, if English is not your first language
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
If you require further information take a look at our application guidance. 
Disability Inclusion Services
If you have an impairment, health condition or disability, learn about the additional support the University provides.
International students
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office. Take a look at our how to apply information or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
Submitting an application
Once you are happy that you have all of the information required you can apply using our online postgraduate application form (the blue 'Apply now' icon on this page). 
What happens after I apply?
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeksof us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail. 
If you would like any further information please contact the Admissions and Course Enquiries team:
Telephone: +44 (0)1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk 
Admissions policy
More information and advice for applicants can be referenced in our admissions policy which can be found on the student regulations, policies and procedures page. Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.

“With an emphasis on small group teaching via tutorials and seminars, you'll engage actively with staff to foster critical thinking and communication; skills invaluable to a career in research."

Professor Richard Yarwood 
Professor of Human Geography 
Richard Yarwood
Carlotta Molfese Human Geography Research PhD student

"The MSc Human Geography Research has a great balance of theory and practice, with plenty of opportunities to get hands-on research experience with the support of experienced staff. It was an excellent training that equipped me with the confidence, knowledge and skills to undertake research at the PhD level."

Carlotta is now working on a PhD funded by the ESRC DTP

Academic spotlight

Geography 50 - Dr Mark Holton
Dr Mark Holton
Geography 50 - Ian Bailey
Professor Ian Bailey

Discover facilities in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences

As student in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences you will have access to a range of cutting-edge resources and facilities.  
These will support your learning in the field and in the laboratory – whether in traditional chemistry lab or a high-performance computing room. Many are solely for the use of our students and researchers and you will also have access to LABplus Resource Centre and the Marine Station.
 
Students using a petrographic microscope


Celebrating 50 years of geography

2019 marked the 50th anniversary of geography as a degree subject at the University of Plymouth.
In the last half century, 6,394 students have graduated from our geography programmes and 154 staff have worked with us, supporting and carrying out world-class research and teaching.

People