Department life for undergraduates - Department of Geography and Environmental Science

Life as an undergraduate

Along with attending lectures and seminars and learning through independent study, you'll spend considerable time gaining practical experience in our teaching laboratories and through research and training opportunities in the Department.

Our students have had the opportunity to gain first-hand experience in the field and put their theoretical knowledge into practice in dedicated residential field classes. This gives you the chance to develop skills that you'll be able to use in your own project work and which will be valued by employers.

Friendly, supportive community

When you study with us, you will join a vibrant and welcoming department. We have a collaborative international community of students, staff, and alumni. You will be supported by approachable academic staff, who take the time to get to know you and enable you to make the most of your experience of studying with us.

Overall, 99% of our students said teaching staff are good at explaining things (National Student Survey 2025, 99% of responders from the Department of Geography and Environmental Science).

We hold an silver award, which recognises our focus on gender equality. Athena SWAN promotes representation, progression and success for all. It focuses specifically on the advancement of women's careers across higher education in all academic fields. The charter also promotes and recognises work that supports transgender staff and students.

GeogSoc is our active student society that organises social and academic events throughout the year, including extra-curricular trips, formal and informal get-togethers. You will also have a student mentor to help you make the transition to university.

Modern, specialist facilities

The Department is based in a custom-designed building with specialised research facilities. These include laboratories and dedicated instrumentation.

You'll have access to superb controlled environment facilities, including a large area of experimental polytunnels and glasshouses. There are also extensive opportunities for field work at the University's experimental farms.

Find out more about our facilities

Award-winning campus

The 伊人直播app is ranked 4th in the UK for environmental and ethical performance (People and Planet University League 2024/25). You will study on our parkland campu