Follow your passions
Gain skills for diverse careers
Out in the field




Details
Year 1

Core modules
OS102
Physical and Chemical Processes of the Ocean
20 credits
This module provides an introduction to the main physical and chemical processes occurring in the world's oceans and a foundation in key aspects of underpinning science and mathematics.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
OS109
Introduction to Biodiversity and Marine Ecosystems
20 credits
This module will provide an introduction to biodiversity with particular focus on marine organisms. Students will be taught how we name and classify species using a hierarchical system. Students will learn where different organisms live and how they interact in various ecosystems in our oceans. Students will gain a basic understanding of food webs, primary production and marine ecology.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
GEES1103
Glaciers, Deserts and Climate Change
20 credits
Deserts are expanding. The Arctic is melting. The 21st Century is a time of extraordinary transition. Here we show you why. We journey back in time to explore how and why climate has changed over thousands of years. We examine why cold places have such remarkable features and what they can tell us. We delve into the drivers of our driest environments. We ask what agency humans have had in these places and since when.
50% Remotely delivered assessments
50% Tests
GEES1104
Water, Landscapes and Environmental Management
20 credits
Explore the dynamic world of physical geography through a series of environmental themes centred on the role of water as an agent of landscape change, and a vital natural resource. Learn how to collect and analyse real-world data by combining fieldwork, lab techniques, and spatial analysis to build your quantitative skills. This hands-on module enables you to connect theory to the environment we live in.
50% Practicals
50% Tests
GEES1105
Sustainable Futures
20 credits
Explore critical global sustainability challenges and solutions at local, national and international scales. Learn about core sustainability principles and their application to energy, biodiversity, land management, marine, travel, and personal behaviour. Sustainability sector experts share their experience, and students develop knowledge and teamwork skills through a tutor-supported group research project.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
GEES1106
Our Digital Planet
20 credits
Explore the biggest challenges facing our planet today and discover how data analysis and visualisation can drive real-world solutions. You will be introduced to data analysis, GIS, and cartographic techniques through engaging, hands-on examples. You will develop essential skills while tackling pressing issues. You will receive personalised support from your tutor to help you excel at university-level study.
50% Coursework
50% Tests
Year 2

Core modules
OS201
Global Ocean Processes
20 credits
This module explores the large-scale distribution and characteristics of water masses and biogeochemical properties throughout the global oceans. Physical mechanisms that drive the global circulation in a changing climate will be investigated alongside their role in determining the transport of chemical constituents throughout the open ocean and in shelf seas. The life cycles and distribution of marine organisms and the structuring of marine foodwebs will be explored.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
OS204
Waves, Tides and Coastal Dynamics
20 credits
This module provides an introduction to the characteristics of ocean waves and focuses on how waves and tides interact with the coast and drive the coastal processes that result in shoreline erosion and accretion.
100% Coursework
GEES2000
Placement Preparation
0 credits
This module explores the role of placements, work experience and volunteering for enhancing employability whilst at university and as a future graduate. It considers placement options (types, durations) and supports students in developing applications and preparing for interviews.
100% Assessments
GEES2106
Principles and Applications of Geography 1
20 credits
Why do people think geography is about naming the longest river in Africa or the capital of a country in a far-flung part of the world? In this module you’ll explore the different ways geographers investigate the world around us and learn about the ideas that shape geographic research. You’ll see how these ideas connect to your future career paths, as well as your research activities on fieldwork and in your dissertation.
70% Remotely delivered assessments
30% Practicals
GEES2107
Principles and Applications of Geography 2
20 credits
Take your understanding of core geographical ideas further and develop new skills through the development of an independent research project. Through lectures and workshops, you'll develop key employability skills and tackle team challenges based on real workplace scenarios. Be empowered to take part in original research with one-to-one advice on a geographic topic of your choice to prepare for your dissertation.
60% Coursework
40% Practicals
Optional modules
GEES2104
Quaternary to Anthropocene
20 credits
Discover how and when our planet moved from a state where natural processes controlled ecological conditions and the climatic system, to the human-dominated environment we inhabit (the 'Anthropocene'). You will learn about these changes from local to global scales, and develop new skills in generating, interpreting and presenting long-term ecological data to identify and quantify changes in the biosphere.
50% Coursework
50% Remotely delivered assessments
GEES2105
Catchment and River Processes
20 credits
Explore the science behind how rivers and their catchments co-function. You will develop an understanding of how they respond to important issues such as climate change and resource management. The fieldwork and workshops have been co-designed with professional bodies so that you will develop professional practical expertise in how to address serious river catchment issues such as erosion and flooding. .
100% Coursework
GEES2108
Geographical Information Systems
20 credits
Dive into the exciting world of GIS with this hands-on module. You'll master the theory, methods, and spatial literacy needed to analyse real-world geographic data. Through interactive lectures and practical sessions, you'll explore geospatial data handling and cutting-edge spatial analysis and visualisation techniques. Develop valuable skills through project work, gaining the experience to tackle real-world challenges.
50% Coursework
50% Tests
GEES2109
Fieldwork in Geography
20 credits
Enhance your geographical understanding through fieldwork. Immerse yourself in the culture and physical landscape of a field area, which you select from an exciting range of destinations. Work in a team to design a scientific project that tackles a fundamental geographical issue whilst developing core research skills to underpin your degree programme.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
GEES2305
Weather and Climate
20 credits
Studying weather and climate is not just for scientists—it's essential for all of us. In this module you'll gain intellectual and practical skills that will help you understand the drivers of weather and climate. You’ll explore the scientific evidence behind current trends and predictions, equipping you with an understanding of how weather and climate can impact all walks of life and are critical for a sustainable future.
50% Coursework
50% Remotely delivered assessments
Optional placement year

Core modules
GEES3000
Placement
0 credits
This module is a placement position, where a student undertakes a programme of work within a host company or organisation. The placement occurs within a yearlong period, meeting minimum duration requirements. Students experience applying their degree, experience professional practice, develop enhanced subject-related knowledge and skills, and undergo personal-professional development.
100% Coursework
Final year

Core modules
OS303
Ocean Dynamics
20 credits
The module provides an introduction to dynamical oceanography with emphasis on the large- and meso-scale circulation in the world ocean and shelf seas. Topics include geostrophic and wind driven currents, eddies, formation of fronts, upwelling, interactions between water masses, exchanges between shelf and deep seas. Emphasis is placed on quantitative understanding of physical processes and the analysis of field data.
100% Coursework
OS306
Coastal Geomorphology and Estuaries
20 credits
A study of the different geomorphological archetypes of the coastal zone which builds on the student's knowledge of physical processes to describe how the geographical characteristics of these zones develop. The module explores how the characteristics of these zones influence the associated ecosystems and examines how human utilisation of this space contributes to or conflicts with the natural setting.
60% Coursework
40% Examinations
GEES3108
Dissertation in Geography
40 credits
Conduct a major piece of independent research on a geographical issue that sparks your curiosity. Take on a real-world geographical challenge and contribute fresh insights to academic debates by designing, executing, and delivering your own investigation. Showcase your originality, critical thinking, and communication skills. This module consolidates the broad skills and knowledge gained on your undergraduate journey.
100% Coursework
Optional modules
GEES3001
Work Based Learning in Geography and Sustainability
20 credits
This module provides an opportunity for students to experience professional practice in environmental management and sustainability. Students will undertake a minimum of 100 hours service with a professional organisation (private, public or third sector). You will investigate the organisation's practice in environmental management and sustainability and further develop professional attitudes and behaviours.
70% Coursework
30% Practicals
GEES3002
Frontiers in Fieldwork: Unlocking Multidisciplinary Potential
20 credits
Embark on exploration of critical, real-world challenges in an exciting field context. Collaborate in multidisciplinary teams to tackle a core issue through a research project of your own creation. Sharpen your existing expertise and develop important transdisciplinary skills that prepare you to face career challenges beyond university with confidence and innovation.
100% Coursework
GEES3105
Dryland Change
20 credits
The world’s drylands, or deserts, cover at least a third of the Earth’s land surface. You’ll learn how these dynamic, vulnerable landscapes experience dramatic changes throughout history and the present day, via lectures, workshops and practicals. You’ll build expertise in reading the landscape to explore past changes, and explore how we can sustainably address desertification, which affects the livelihoods of billions.
50% Coursework
50% Remotely delivered assessments
GEES3106
Long-term Environmental Change
20 credits
Discover how lessons from the past can help tackle today’s biggest environmental and societal challenges. Through workshops and lectures, you’ll explore 'grand environmental challenges,' placing current issues in a long-term context - spanning decades to millennia. You’ll also reflect on the power of long-term thinking in shaping sustainability and environmental management for the future.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
GEES3107
Contemporary Arctic and Alpine Challenges
20 credits
Investigate the challenges facing some of the Earth’s most climatically extreme landscapes and their societies. Explore rapid landscape evolution, climate-driven geohazards, and sustainable solutions for high latitude and altitude environments. Build practical skills to measure environmental change, quantify risks, and create mitigation strategies that address these challenges and our ability to withstand them.
60% Coursework
40% Practicals
GEES3109
Big Data & Spatial Analytics
20 credits
Explore the power of spatial analysis in this practical module. You’ll develop hands-on skills in data processing, management, and programming while diving into the world of big data. Learn to acquire, process, analyse, and visualise datasets through real-world examples from the natural and social sciences. Gain essential expertise and confidence, supported by data, to unlock new insights for societal challenges.
100% Coursework
GEES3310
Climate Change Action
20 credits
The time to act is now! Never has there been a more relevant time to equip yourself for the drive to deliver climate action. Here you will be immersed in the most up-to-date understanding of the science and policy, trained in climate risk analysis and shown how to be a valuable agent of climate change action in the professional workplace.
50% Coursework
50% Remotely delivered assessments
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Accredited by the Royal Geographical Society with the Institute of British Geographers (IBG).
This BSc (Hons) Geography degree has been independently evaluated for its quality and the skills provided to graduates.
Experience
Why study Geography with Ocean Science at Plymouth?

Fieldwork to exciting destinations


I've thoroughly enjoyed every part of my degree! But one of the many highlights would be the field trip to the Pacific Northwest of America, where I gained valuable hands-on experience, and the practical sessions utilising oceanographic data, which have left me feeling well-prepared for a career in the environmental or marine sector.

Facilities to support your learning



"The independence and confidence gained from the exchange was very beneficial. Not many 19-year-olds travel 4,500 miles independently and live in a foreign country for four months."

Learn from experts
Individual staff engage with a wide range of other departments in universities and research institutes from around the world.

Professor Anne Mather
Professor in Geomorphology

Professor Ian Bailey
Professor of Environmental Politics

Professor Will Blake
Professor of Catchment Science
Enrich your studies – join the Geography Society

Life in Plymouth
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Current student

Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer

Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls

Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
The ‘hands on’ elements of my studies I found to be most inspiring. I found that through putting into practice the theory behind the things we learnt about in lectures, my understanding was greatly enhanced along with a huge sense of enjoyment. Such experiences included the undertaking of fieldwork on the university’s research vessel as well as field trip experiences in Ireland and Iceland.
BSc (Hons) Geography with Ocean Science graduate, working in the Flood and Coastal Risk Management team with the Environment Agency.

Where will your work placement take you...?
Dartmoor Zoo
Royal Geographical Society
UK Hydrographic Office
Fugro
Amey


As part of my work-based learning module, I completed 100 working hours on placement with Plymouth Coastal Observatory (PCO). I used and built upon my surveying skills by assisting the PCO team carrying out beach surveys using RTK GPS. It provided me with the skill set needed to pursue a career in coastal processes and has led to a job with the PCO.
BSc (Hons) Geography with Ocean Science
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
£9,535 per year
£795 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
£18,650 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Additional costs
Fund your studies
Supporting students with the cost of living

Apply
Entry requirements
104 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
GCSE
A levels
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
BTEC National Diploma modules
All Access courses
T level
International Baccalaureate
Extended entry requirements
Ready to apply?
F8F7
P60
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Full-time
Plymouth
Other routes into this course
The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

Don't have the traditional entry requirements to start a degree? Get a solid grounding in the disciplines underpinning geography through an additional foundation year.
Entry requirements
104 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
English language requirements
Ready to apply?
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
F8F7
P60
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Full-time
Plymouth