Programme Specification for the 2023/4 academic year

BSc (Hons) Geography with Professional Placement

1. Programme Details

Programme name	BSc (Hons) Geography with Professional Placement	Programme code	UFS4GOAGOA07
Study mode(s)	Full Time	Academic year	2023/4
Campus(es)	Streatham (Exeter)	NQF Level of the Final Award	6 (Honours)

2. Description of the Programme

This is a four year, full-time programme, with three years based at the Streatham campus, and a year spent working within an appropriate organisation. The programme campus will provide you with a broad understanding of geographical processes and the physical environment. It provides you the opportunity to develop your interests and research in physical geography along whilst developing transferable and discipline specific skills. Underpinning theory and core concepts are taught in lectures, seminars and tutorials, whilst computer practicals, fieldwork and lab work allows you to apply this knowledge to real physical geography data.

You will develop a range of skills specific to the geographer as well as a series of cognitive, generic and transferable skills. In compulsory modules of the programme you develop skills such as statistical analysis, learning to code for data analysis, geospatial investigation and mapping through the use of GIS, image analysis of earth observation data and data collection in the field. Training is provided on industry-standard software packages for spatial data analysis which are important skills across all sectors in business, government and science.

The BSc programmes offer the opportunity for you to undertake physical geography research methods, participate in a physical geography field course, and carry out a physical geography dissertation. These are the key features that distinguish them from the BA Geography programmes.

On the work placement (which you arrange and organise yourself), you will gain valuable experience by spending a year working within an organisation appropriate to your degree. You will apply for positions with relevant organisations, with the support of the module convenor. You are encouraged to consider a range of organisations, including consultancies, charities, NGOs, research institutes and universities. Geography has established collaborations with local, national and international organisations that you can consider when applying for placement positions. You will gain valuable experience from the professional placement: you will learn to apply the skills learnt during the first and second years, improve personal and transferable skills, make new contacts and enhance employability. Professional placements allow you to develop your career focus and are extremely valued by employers.

3. Educational Aims of the Programme

The BSc (Hons) Geography with Professional Placement programme is intended to show Geography as a dynamic discipline concerned with processes and patterns in human and natural environments. It aims to provide you with a broad understanding of the complex interrelationships of the physical environment and human society. The programme offers opportunity to develop interests in the discipline and research into the specific aspects of physical geography in which the department has specialised. Through fieldwork in physical geography and other forms of experiential learning, this programme particularly aims to promote curiosity about natural environments, ability to problem solve and critically evaluate and, through a variety of pedagogies, to enable you to develop a range of skills specific to the physical geographer as well as a series of cognitive, generic and transferable skills.

The year spent on professional placement aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the applications of Geography and geographical skills in the workplace and encourage you to think critically, evaluate evidence, analyse, challenge, solve problems, work collaboratively, and communicate effectively.

4. Programme Structure

5. Programme Modules

The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual programme review of this programme.

https://geography.exeter.ac.uk/newstudents/ugstreatham/

You may take optional modules as long as any necessary prerequisites have been satisfied, where the timetable allows and if you have not already taken the module in question or an equivalent module. Descriptions of the individual modules are given in full on the College website

You may take elective modules up to 30 credits outside of the programme in Stages 1, 2 and 4 of the programme with permission as long as any necessary prerequisites have been satisfied, where the timetable allows and if you have not already taken the module in question or an equivalent module.

Stage 1

90 credits of compulsory modules, 30 credits of optional modules

Compulsory Modules

Code	Module	Credits	Non-condonable?
GEO1211	Earth System Science: The History of Our Planet	15	No
GEO1213	Earth System Science: Our Changing Planet	15	No
GEO1310	Geographies of Environment and Sustainability	15	No
GEO1311	Study Skills for Physical Geographers	15	Yes
GEO1312	Fieldwork in Physical Geography	15	No
GEO1316	Concepts in Geography	15	No

Optional Modules

The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.

Code	Module	Credits	Non-condonable?
GeoS S1 Human opt for BSc Geog 2023-24
GEO1105	Geographies of Place, Identity and Culture	15	No
GEO1106	Geographies of Global Change	15	No

Stage 2

60 credits of compulsory modules, 60 credits of optional modules

^a You must choose 30-60 credits from the Physical Geography and interdisciplinary Geography modules listed.

^b You may then choose 0-30 credits from other level 5 Geography modules listed.

Compulsory Modules

Code	Module	Credits	Non-condonable?
GEO2333	Applied GIS: Mapping with Technology	15	No
GEO2334	Research Design in Physical Geography	30	No
GEO2332	Numerical Methods for Physical Geographers	15	No

Optional Modules

Code	Module	Credits	Non-condonable?
GeoS S2 Physical-Inter opt for BSc Geog 2023-4 see note a above
GEO2230	Reconstructing Past Environments	15	No
GEO2232	The Cryosphere	15	No
GEO2233	Landscape Response to Environmental Change: from Source to Sink	15	No
GEO2317	Climate Change: Science and Society	15	No
GEO2235	Ecosystems of the future: climate change, terrestrial feedbacks and nature-based solutions	15	No
GEO2234	The 'Anthropocene'	15	No
GEO2321	Introduction to Remote Sensing	15	No
GEO2322C	Nature, Environment and Sustainability Field Course	15	No
GeoS S2 Human opt for BSc Geog 2023-4 see note b above
GEO2131	Nature, Development and Justice	15	No
GEO2132	Global Urban Futures	15	No
GEO2135	In/visible Spaces of Modern Life	15	No
GEO2136	Geographies of Migration	15	No

Stage 3

120 credits of compulsory modules

Compulsory Modules

Code	Module	Credits	Non-condonable?
GEO3603	Professional Placement for Geographers	120	Yes

Stage 4

30-45 credits of compulsory modules, 75-90 credits of optional modules

^c You must choose either GEO3321 or GEO3322.

Compulsory Modules

Code	Module	Credits	Non-condonable?
GEO3321	BSc Dissertation [See note c above]	45	Yes
GEO3322	BSc Dissertation [See note c above]	30	No

Optional Modules

Code	Module	Credits	Non-condonable?
GeoS SF BSc Geog opt 2023-24
GEO3101	Gender and Geography	15	No
GEO3123	Geographies of Material Culture	15	No
GEO3126	The Geography of Monsters: Science, Society and Environmental Risk	15	No
GEO3129	Images of the Earth	15	No
GEO3142	Geographies of the Body	15	No
GEO3144	Geopolitical Cultures	15	No
GEO3146	Digital Geographies	15	No
GEO3147	Literature, Environment, Activism	15	No
GEO3223	Landscape Systems Management	15	No
GEO3225	Climate Change and its Impacts	15	No
GEO3227	Weather	15	No
GEO3230	Tropical Forests in a Changing World	15	No
GEO3239	GIS for Professionals	15	No
GEO3245	Coastal Systems in a Changing World	15	No
GEO3246	Tropical Marine Carbonate Systems: Responses to Environmental Change	15	No
GEO3325	Environmental Futures Field Course	15	No

6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods

Intended Learning Outcomes
A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:	Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...
...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):	...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:
1. Illustrate the nature of change within human and physical environments. 2. Compare the reciprocal relationships between physical and human environments. 3. Explain the significance of spatial relationships as influences upon human and physical environments. 4. Summarise the diversity and interdependence of places at various spatial scales. 5. Understand and apply geography in a work environment.	In Stage 1, primarily through tutorials, compulsory modules and through subject-based learning in human geography modules. In Stage 2, through fieldtrips, research training and work-based learning experiences. Implicitly through lectures, seminars and directed study in the context of a variety specific topic-based option modules in all Stages.	ILO 1 Explicitly through coursework and examinations in compulsory modules and throughout other module based assessments in second and final Stages (depending on options taken). ILOs 2-3 Much of Stage 1 is explicitly interdisciplinary, as are a number of option modules in the second and final Stages. These modules are assessed against student’s understanding about interconnections through essays and exams. ILO 4 This is assessed in the Stage 2 field course and implicitly through coursework and written examinations associated with topic-based modules. ILO 5 Assessed through the coursework associated with the Professional Placement module taken alongside the work placement year, in Stage 3.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...

...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):

...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:

1. Illustrate the nature of change within human and physical environments.
2. Compare the reciprocal relationships between physical and human environments.
3. Explain the significance of spatial relationships as influences upon human and physical environments.
4. Summarise the diversity and interdependence of places at various spatial scales.
5. Understand and apply geography in a work environment.

In Stage 1, primarily through tutorials, compulsory modules and through subject-based learning in human geography modules. In Stage 2, through fieldtrips, research training and work-based learning experiences. Implicitly through lectures, seminars and directed study in the context of a variety specific topic-based option modules in all Stages.

ILO 1 Explicitly through coursework and examinations in compulsory modules and throughout other module based assessments in second and final Stages (depending on options taken).

ILOs 2-3 Much of Stage 1 is explicitly interdisciplinary, as are a number of option modules in the second and final Stages. These modules are assessed against student’s understanding about interconnections through essays and exams.

ILO 4 This is assessed in the Stage 2 field course and implicitly through coursework and written examinations associated with topic-based modules.

ILO 5 Assessed through the coursework associated with the Professional Placement module taken alongside the work placement year, in Stage 3.

Intended Learning Outcomes
B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:	Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...
...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):	...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:
6. Evaluate the diversity of approaches to the generation of knowledge and understanding deriving from experience of the epistemologies of the natural sciences. 7. Identify geographical concepts in different situations. 8. Apply ideas to new situations and with a systematic approach to accuracy, precision and uncertainty. 9. Apply knowledge and understanding of geography to the solution of problems in the work place.	Explicitly introduced as a concept in Stage 1 compulsory modules, and later in Stage 2 research training modules. Expanded through subject-based learning in optional modules in Stages 2 and 4, including the option field course at Stage 4. Applied by student in independent dissertation.	ILO 6 Coursework in research training modules at Stage 2 and an option field course module and the dissertation at Stage 4. ILO 7 Field class training and through a variety of assessments in all modules in all Stages. ILO 8 Explicitly assessed in project work in Stage 1 and applied and assessed in the dissertation. ILO 9 Assessed through the coursework associated with the Professional Placement module taken alongside the work placement year, in Stage 3.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...

...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):

...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:

6. Evaluate the diversity of approaches to the generation of knowledge and understanding deriving from experience of the epistemologies of the natural sciences.
7. Identify geographical concepts in different situations.
8. Apply ideas to new situations and with a systematic approach to accuracy, precision and uncertainty.
9. Apply knowledge and understanding of geography to the solution of problems in the work place.

Explicitly introduced as a concept in Stage 1 compulsory modules, and later in Stage 2 research training modules. Expanded through subject-based learning in optional modules in Stages 2 and 4, including the option field course at Stage 4. Applied by student in independent dissertation.

ILO 6 Coursework in research training modules at Stage 2 and an option field course module and the dissertation at Stage 4.

ILO 7 Field class training and through a variety of assessments in all modules in all Stages.

ILO 8 Explicitly assessed in project work in Stage 1 and applied and assessed in the dissertation.

ILO 9 Assessed through the coursework associated with the Professional Placement module taken alongside the work placement year, in Stage 3.

Intended Learning Outcomes
C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:	Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...
...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):	...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:
10. Evaluate the issues involved in applying research design and execution skills within the specific context of primary research. 11. Evaluate the diversity of specialised approaches to, and techniques of, collecting, analysing and presenting information on the physical environment. 12. Synthesise information and recognise relevance, develop a sustained and reasoned argument, and evaluate and articulate weaknesses in the arguments of others. 13. Communicate ideas, principles and theories effectively and fluently by written, oral and visual means in a manner appropriate to the intended audience. 14. Illustrate and discuss the contested and provisional nature of knowledge and understanding and articulate and communicate teaching/learning methods and strategies. 15. Identify, formulate and evaluate questions or problems, and identify and evaluate approaches to problem-solving. 16. Use C&IT tools effectively and appropriately to select, analyse, present and communicate geographical information, effectively and appropriately interpret and use numerical statistical information, and apply basic and more advanced numerical skills effectively and appropriately to geographical information. 17. Work and study in a professional environment.	Personal transferable employment skills and knowledge are embedded in all modules. Stage 2 modules are strongly focused towards developing skills for use in the dissertation and in real life situations. Explicitly through directed practical exercises in Stage 1 and 2 research training modules; in field courses in Stages 1 and 4, and in dissertation supervisions in Stage 4. Implicitly through lectures, seminars and directed study in specific topic-based option modules in all Stages. Applied in self-directed dissertation.	ILO 10 Coursework in modules focusing on research training and fieldwork and the dissertation. ILO 11 Data analysis methods are explicitly assessed in Stage 1 and 2 research training modules, and implicitly in option modules in all Stages. ILO 12 Through a variety of assessments in all modules in all Stages. ILO 13 Through a variety of assessments in all modules in all Stages. ILO 14 Through critical writing tasks assessed in a range of modules through the second and final Stages and in the dissertation. ILO 15 Explicitly through coursework in Stage 1 and 2 research training and through fieldwork based modules and the dissertation at Stage 4. ILO 16 Explicitly in coursework for research training modules in Stages 1 and 2. ILO 17 Assessed through the coursework associated with the Professional Placement module taken alongside the work placement year, in Stage 3.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...

...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):

...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:

10. Evaluate the issues involved in applying research design and execution skills within the specific context of primary research.
11. Evaluate the diversity of specialised approaches to, and techniques of, collecting, analysing and presenting information on the physical environment.
12. Synthesise information and recognise relevance, develop a sustained and reasoned argument, and evaluate and articulate weaknesses in the arguments of others.
13. Communicate ideas, principles and theories effectively and fluently by written, oral and visual means in a manner appropriate to the intended audience.
14. Illustrate and discuss the contested and provisional nature of knowledge and understanding and articulate and communicate teaching/learning methods and strategies.
15. Identify, formulate and evaluate questions or problems, and identify and evaluate approaches to problem-solving.
16. Use C&IT tools effectively and appropriately to select, analyse, present and communicate geographical information, effectively and appropriately interpret and use numerical statistical information, and apply basic and more advanced numerical skills effectively and appropriately to geographical information.
17. Work and study in a professional environment.

Personal transferable employment skills and knowledge are embedded in all modules. Stage 2 modules are strongly focused towards developing skills for use in the dissertation and in real life situations. Explicitly through directed practical exercises in Stage 1 and 2 research training modules; in field courses in Stages 1 and 4, and in dissertation supervisions in Stage 4. Implicitly through lectures, seminars and directed study in specific topic-based option modules in all Stages. Applied in self-directed dissertation.

ILO 10 Coursework in modules focusing on research training and fieldwork and the dissertation.

ILO 11 Data analysis methods are explicitly assessed in Stage 1 and 2 research training modules, and implicitly in option modules in all Stages.

ILO 12 Through a variety of assessments in all modules in all Stages.

ILO 13 Through a variety of assessments in all modules in all Stages.

ILO 14 Through critical writing tasks assessed in a range of modules through the second and final Stages and in the dissertation.

ILO 15 Explicitly through coursework in Stage 1 and 2 research training and through fieldwork based modules and the dissertation at Stage 4.

ILO 16 Explicitly in coursework for research training modules in Stages 1 and 2.

ILO 17 Assessed through the coursework associated with the Professional Placement module taken alongside the work placement year, in Stage 3.

7. Programme Regulations

Programme-specific Progression Rules

GEO3602 Professional Placement for Geographers counts as a single 120 credit module and is not condonable; you must pass this module to graduate with the degree title of BSc Geography with Professional Placement. If you fail the professional placement module your degree title will be commuted to BSc Geography.

Classification

Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook. Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.

8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning

All students in Geography are allocated Personal Tutors who monitor and advise you on your academic progress and performance throughout your degree programme. Each Personal Tutor keeps a record of your performance which culminates in a detailed record of achievement which is used, in addition to formal assessments, to help inform personal references requested by prospective employers. Personal Tutors provide pastoral oversight for non-academic problems (advising students as necessary on the availability of appropriate specialist and professional assistance).

In addition, you take a compulsory, mainly tutorial-based, 15-credit Level 4 module on ‘Study Skills for Human Geography’ (GEO1309). This module aims to a) raise your awareness of the role you must yourself play in the learning process, b) facilitate your development as an independent learner, and c) direct your acquisition of a range of specialist and generic skills.

You attend University and Discipline Induction courses on arrival, and are directed to the Exeter Learning Environment (ELE) Student Portal and module ELE pages, that provide information on your teaching and learning. Student learning is supported by a wide range of discipline-specific and university learning facilities, including the University Library and IT Services.

All teaching staff maintain an two non-consecutive Office Hours per week to facilitate student access to academic support. Module staff will also outline additional means to support student learning during term time. There is student representation at all levels in the Discipline and programme development takes place with explicit consultation, notably through formal representation of students on the Discipline Education Committee.

The Faculty complies with the University’s Code of Practice on Study and Work Experience Abroad. The name of the member of staff acting as the programme’s Co-ordinator for study abroad is made known to you before you leave Exeter, and this person is responsible for liaison and oversight of your progress during the year abroad. Contact will be maintained with you during your year abroad by regular email communication.

9. University Support for Students and Students' Learning

Please refer to the University Academic Policy and Standards guidelines regarding support for students and students' learning.

10. Admissions Criteria

Undergraduate applicants must satisfy the Undergraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.

Postgraduate applicants must satisfy the Postgraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.

Specific requirements required to enrol on this programme are available at the respective Undergraduate or Postgraduate Study Site webpages.

11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards

Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed College assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures.

The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both College and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.

(Quality Review Framework.

14. Awarding Institution

University of Exeter

15. Lead College / Teaching Institution

Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy (ESE)

16. Partner College / Institution

Partner College(s)

Not applicable to this programme

Partner Institution

Not applicable to this programme.

17. Programme Accredited / Validated by

18. Final Award

BSc (Hons) Geography with Professional Placement

19. UCAS Code

F813

20. NQF Level of Final Award

6 (Honours)

21. Credit

CATS credits		ECTS credits

22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group

[Honours] Geography

23. Dates

Origin Date	17/12/2018	Date of last revision	26/08/2022

Programme Specification for the 2023/4 academic year

BSc (Hons) Geography with Professional Placement

1. Programme Details

2. Description of the Programme

3. Educational Aims of the Programme

4. Programme Structure

5. Programme Modules

Stage 1

Compulsory Modules

Optional Modules

Stage 2

Compulsory Modules

Optional Modules

Stage 3

Compulsory Modules

Stage 4

Compulsory Modules

Optional Modules

6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods

Intended Learning Outcomes A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge

7. Programme Regulations

8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning

9. University Support for Students and Students' Learning

10. Admissions Criteria

11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards

14. Awarding Institution

15. Lead College / Teaching Institution

16. Partner College / Institution

Partner College(s)

Partner Institution

17. Programme Accredited / Validated by

18. Final Award

19. UCAS Code

20. NQF Level of Final Award

21. Credit

22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group

23. Dates

Intended Learning Outcomes
A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes
B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes
C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge