Physical Geography with a Foundation Year

Explore the landscapes, climate and the dynamic physical processes that shape the Earth’s surface, with a focus on the global challenges facing our oceans or the effect humans are having on the planet.

This four-year integrated programme explores the landscapes, climate and dynamic physical processes that shape the Earth’s surface, with a focus on the global challenges facing our oceans or the effect humans are having on the planet.

This Foundation Year provides a supportive route into university study enabling you to progress into any of our Physical Geography, Environmental Geography, Marine Geography or Environmental Sustainability Science degrees.

The flexibility we offer means you have the option to extend your degree by an additional year by switching to an MSci before the end of your second year (subject to academic achievement) or choosing a degree with a year of study abroad.  
You will study a wide range of topics, from glaciers and volcanoes to climate change, land degradation and rising sea levels. Depending on your interests, you can choose to focus on physical processes that shape the planet, environmental challenges affecting ecosystems around the world, the relationship between society and the sea, or the science of sustainability and global development. You will investigate environments ranging from deserts and mountains to coral reefs, polar regions and coastal landscapes.

A key feature of our Physically Geography programmes is learning through practical experience. You will develop valuable skills in fieldwork, mapping, data analysis and problem-solving, while gaining experience with industry-standard equipment and technologies. Field trips allow you to apply your knowledge in diverse land and marine environments.

Throughout your studies, you will engage with real-world challenges such as climate action, sustainable resource management, ocean health, flooding, coastal erosion and environmental conservation. You will learn how to analyse complex environmental problems, evaluate evidence and develop practical solutions that can support a more sustainable future.

Our graduates leave with a strong scientific understanding of the physical environment, extensive hands-on experience and a wide range of transferable skills. Whether your goal is to protect natural environments, support sustainable industries, influence environmental policy or contribute to research, these degrees provide an excellent foundation for making a positive impact on the world.