Geography

Entry requirements

4 in GCSE Geography, if taken

4 in GCSE Science

4 in GCSE English Language

4 in Maths

What will I study

You will study a range of different dynamic topics in both human and physical geography. This will include regenerating places, globalisation, superpower geographies, resource management which will include water security and energy security and migration, identity and sovereignty. You will also complete an in-depth investigation into an aspect of a topic of interest. This will be completed on a five-day compulsory field trip that takes place off-site in an unfamiliar location.

How will I be assessed?

There are three written exams at the end of year 13.

Paper 1: physical geography, 30%. Topics include tectonic processes and hazards, coastal landscapes and change, the water cycle and water insecurity and the carbon cycle and energy security.

Paper 2: human geography, 30%. Topics include globalisation, superpowers, regenerating places, migration, identity and sovereignty.

Paper 3: synoptic assessment of geographical skills, knowledge and understanding (within a place-based context) from compulsory content drawn from different parts of the course, 20%.

There is also a coursework based independent investigation worth the final 20%. This will be completed on a five day compulsory residential field trip in an unfamiliar location.

Is this subject for me?

A-level geography is a diverse course where students will learn through lecture and seminar-style lessons. In addition the course also requires lots of independent learning, including students taking part in a field trip where they construct and carry out their own investigation. Students will have the ability to debate and ask geographical questions, developing their critical thinking skills, keep up with current affairs, carry out regular wider-reading and develop their essay writing skills.

Where can this lead me?

There are many courses that students can go on to at university. For example BSc Geography (physical geography), BA Geography (human geography), natural hazards, environmental science, geology. Geography A-level and Geography degrees are very well recognised by employers and can lead you into a wide range of different careers. For example teaching, town planning, environmental consultant, international aid/development worker, transport planning, landscape architecture, jobs within the tourism industry and many more.

What else is there?

There will be opportunities to carry out local fieldwork and support on the year 10 field trips too which will look great on your CV and UCAS application.