Geography (A-Level)

Outline

The course combines physical and human geography, alongside fieldwork and independent investigation.

Physical Geography

You will study:

• Tectonic processes and hazards
• Coastal landscapes and change
• The water cycle and water insecurity
• The carbon cycle and energy security

Human Geography

You will explore:

• Globalisation
• Regenerating places
• Superpowers
• Health, human rights and intervention

Synoptic Investigation

You will bring together ideas from across the course and explore the connections and interactions between different geographical processes in particular locations.

Contemporary Issues in the Field

You will identify a geographical question or issue to investigate, collect your own fieldwork data, and analyse and evaluate your findings.

Fieldwork

Fieldwork is an important part of A Level Geography.

All students are required to complete a minimum of four days of fieldwork, giving you the opportunity to collect and analyse geographical data in real-world environments.

To support this, the College plans two residential fieldwork experiences:

• A residential in Yorkshire
• A residential in North Wales

There is an estimated total charge of £400 for these residentials. Trips are run at cost and bursary opportunities are available.

You may also have opportunities to take part in additional optional fieldwork.

Industry Project

The Geography department also runs an Industry Project, connecting your studies with real-world applications of Geography.

This includes:

• Three days of fieldwork at regeneration sites across Salford
• Opportunities to work with and hear from industry professionals
• Local fieldwork with no additional cost

The project gives you the opportunity to see how geographical knowledge and skills are applied within real places, communities and industries.

Independent research

Your coursework gives you the freedom to explore an area of Geography that interests you personally.

You will choose your own area of study and complete an independent geographical investigation, using the research, fieldwork, analytical and evaluation skills developed throughout the course.

Progression

Geography can lead to a wide range of university courses and careers because of the combination of analytical, research, numerical and communication skills it develops.

Environment and places

Potential career areas include environmental analysis, conservation, sustainability, urban planning, architecture, cartography and transport planning.

Science and society

You could also progress into areas including hydrology, hazards and disaster relief, international development, civil engineering, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and data analysis.

Wider careers

The transferable skills developed through Geography can also support careers in areas including finance, management, media, marketing and teaching, as well as progression to further study.

Assessment

You will complete three examinations at the end of the two-year course, alongside an independent investigation.

Paper 1 – Physical Geography – 30%

Paper 2 – Human Geography – 30%

Paper 3 – Synoptic Investigation – 20%

Independent Investigation – 20%

The independent investigation takes the form of a 3,000–4,000 word geographical research report.

Entry Requirements

A combination of 5 Grade 4’s and 5’s or above at GCSE (including maths and English). * One Vocational Qualification in a related subject area will be considered in place of a GCSE. Subject Specific Entry Requirements: GCSE English Language and GCSE Geography (if studied) at Grade 5.

* Fees

Don’t let the cost of studying put you off – most of our students study for FREE, and those who don’t qualify for funding are very often eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.

Eligibility depends on both the course you have chosen to study and your individual circumstances.

Apply

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