Description

Our natural world is remarkable - explore it, our relationship to it and learn more about how we can protect its future.

Studying the effect humans are having on the planet is more relevant and urgent now than it has ever been. Environmental Geography focuses on the natural world and our relationship with it. This degree is for those who are passionate about facing major environmental issues and communicating their importance to others.

This programme has been accredited by the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) and approaches these issues from both human and physical geographical perspectives, considering the environment itself along with the people and populations who interact with it. Topics students will explore include ecosystems, biogeography, environmental hazards, nature conservation, sustainability and the global environmental challenges we are facing today. Tackling these issues head-on will challenge them to think about their own environmental values and their relationship with the natural world.

This confrontation of environmental issues is never purely theoretical. YSJ sees relevant, real-world experience as an essential part of students' learning. They will go beyond the classroom to get out into the field and study the natural world up close. They make the most of their location, in a Yorkshire landscape of moors, National Parks and coastland. Guest speakers from local environmental organisations also strengthen students' connection to the region.

As students progress through this degree they will study an increasingly broad range of natural environments. They will take part in residential field trips, which at present include locations such as Malta and Slovenia. This experience of planning and carrying out their own research develops valuable, employable skills and is an essential part of the course and therefore participation on these trips is included within their course fees.

Those who choose to study Environmental Geography usually want to make a difference in the struggle for the health of the planet. Graduates from this subject may go on to have rewarding careers in environmental charities, sustainability management and environmental policy and planning. With the fate of the planet in our hands, having skills to confront the challenges which humanity faces will be invaluable.