Human Geography

Drawing on internationally recognised expertise in social, cultural, political and economic geography, the BSc (Hons) Human Geography degree examines the dynamic relationships between society, place and space. You’ll explore how past events, present challenges and future developments shape the world, developing a strong understanding of how people interact with diverse urban, cultural, political and economic environments.

You’ll study themes such as contemporary planning, sustainable cities, global conflict, social justice, cultural identity and the meaning of space and place. Alongside this, you’ll build research and data‑analysis skills that prepare you to address major challenges at local, national and global scales.

You’ll begin with a solid grounding in human geography before progressing to specialist areas such as sustainable development, professional practice and social justice. Fieldwork is central to your learning, with day trips across Manchester and the North West, plus overseas residential courses that broaden your practical experience and global perspective.

Manchester provides an ideal “city laboratory”, offering opportunities to apply your learning in real urban environments. You’ll also develop transferable skills in communication, teamwork and problem‑solving, and can enhance your employability through an optional placement year or study abroad. Carbon Literacy training is embedded in the course, equipping you with in‑demand skills for addressing environmental and social challenges.

FEATURES AND BENEFITS

• Taught by leading researchers: We rank 5th for research impact in the UK, with 100% of our research in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences regarded as world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021).

• Build key fieldwork skills: Each year of the degree offers fieldwork opportunities, ranging from trips in the UK to conducting research overseas, reflecting our commitment to real-world experiences and enhancing your awareness of societal and environmental challenges.

• Leaders in sustainability: We're proud to be the number one university for sustainability a record-breaking fourth time - and we offer free carbon literacy training to all of our students (People and Planet University League 2025/2026).

• Professional study environment: Study in our £115m Dalton building, designed for collaboration, innovation and world-class learning and research.

• Expand your horizons: You can progress to our four-year study abroad route, which gives you the opportunity to study overseas during your third year in North America, Australia or Europe. This may be subject to availability.

• Placement opportunities: You also have the opportunity to transfer to our four-year placement route, spending your third year working with a relevant employer gaining the skills and experience that can boost your career prospects.