When you study with us, you can select from a wide range of modules across the Department and the University, giving a high degree of flexibility.
You will have the chance to tailor your degree to your own interests. You can choose to follow a specialist pathway through your degree and focus on a particular theme, or select a wider variety of topics to develop a broader programme of study.
Flexibility and choice
The main factor that pulled me towards this course at the University of Reading was the flexibility within the course. It was good to know that I'd be able to choose from a large selection of optional modules to tailor the course to what I wanted to learn, within this large subject matter, rather than being restricted to only certain aspects that I may have not been interested in. This makes the course much more enjoyable.
Nicholas Mills
BSc Environmental Science graduate
Global outlook
You will learn with internationally-recognised academics researching and teaching global topics including: development, sustainability, globalisation, climate change and governance, hydrology, landscapes and ecology, paleoecology, dryland environments, and glaciology.
Your studies will encompass the local region and extend to regions across the world; for example, Reading and the Loddon catchment through to South America and Africa.
The University of Reading has been named Sustainable University of the Year in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025, and in 2023, we were the first ever winner of the Times Higher Education (THE) award for Outstanding Contribution to Environmental Leadership.
Gain real-world experience
We offer a range of opportunities to develop work-related skills and gain valuable real-world experience during your studies.
From year-long placements in industry to partnerships with organisations on research projects, there are many ways to enhance your career prospects in our Department.
Overall the teaching standard was exceptional. Lecturers show genuine passion for their subject.
David Brissenden
BSc Geography (Physical) graduate
Study abroad
Depending on your course, you could spend two weeks, a semester, or an academic year abroad.
This can be part of a standard three-year degree, an extended four-year degree, or a shorter length of time such as a summer school.
We’ll help you decide where to go and for how long, guide you through the application process, and support you when you’re abroad.
To find out more about the benefits of studying abroad, and discover where you could go, visit the Study Abroad website.
Careers
A degree in geography or environmental science opens the door to a large number of careers.
Our graduates are passionate about improving the world in which we live, and go on to work in a wide range of sectors, including education, commerce, environmental consultancies, government agencies, pollution monitoring and renewable and sustainable energy companies.
Overall, 91% of graduates from Geography and Environmental Science are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation (based on our analysis of HESA data © HESA 2024, Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021/22; includes first degree Geography and Environmental Science responders).
We believe in preparing you for success by embedding employability skills and opportunities throughout your chosen course.
You will have the opportunity to develop both the practical and the transferable skills that employers want to see, and our close relationships with leading companies and agencies give you the chance to make valuable contacts in your chosen industry. These include:
- problem solving
- literacy and numeracy: data analysis, report and essay writing
- teamwork and presentations
- leadership
- international perspective.
Dedicated careers adviser
The School of Archaeology, Geography and Environmental Science has a dedicated Careers Consultant. They offer careers advice that incorporates coaching techniques, and have developed career learning in both higher education and school settings. They provide additional support and actively help build links with industry both locally and nationally.
To find out more, visit the Careers Centre site.
RED Award
The RED Award (Reading Experience and Personal Development) is a formal record of all your placements and volunteering and is included in your University transcript. This allows you to make the most of extra-curricular activities and experiences undertaken outside of your academic course and to share these with prospective employers on graduation.
How you'll study
You'll learn from experts in the field through lectures, practical classes, fieldwork and small-group tutorials. We also offer a variety of placement opportunities where you can gain real-world experience.
Life in the Department
Join a welcoming, supportive community, where you'll have opportunities to get to know fellow students in field classes and group work, as well as at events hosted by the student-run GeogSoc.
Research
Our researchers are tackling the most urgent global issues and helping to shape our future. They're combating challenges such as climate change, natural disasters, social inequalities, and poverty.
