The information here is relevant for applicants to both our BSc Geography and MA Geography degree programmes.
Our interdisciplinary Geography programmes enable to you to understand our impact on the world and our ways of living within it.
Programme details
Need a refresher of the details of your programme? Our Degree Finder provides information, including what you will study, how you will learn and career opportunities, as well as fees and funding.
Our Degree Programme Tables (DPTs) provide detailed information about the structure of the Geography programmes, including course content. The detailed programme content for 2025-26 will be available in April. Until then, you can view the 2024-25 DPTs. Please note these may be subject to change
Sample timetable
The sample timetable for a Year 1, Semester 1 MA or BSc Geography student is intended to give you an idea of how your time might be spent in your first year.
At present, compulsory courses in Year 1, Semester 1 are Fundamental Methods in Geography and Human Geography for both BSc Geography and MA Geography. In this sample timetable, the student has selected Literary Studies 1A as their additional optional course for Semester 1.
Why study Geography
Why study Geography at Edinburgh?
- World leaders: We’re in the world's top 40 and the UK's top 10 universities for geography, natural sciences, environmental sciences and geology (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024)
- Our interdisciplinary approach: Study geography through the lens of global challenges such as climate change, urbanisation, and sustainable development, with access to world-leading research at Edinburgh.
- Strong career pathways: Our graduates find success in diverse industries such as environmental consultancy, government, geospatial data analysis, with access to our extensive industry networks.
Study geography with us, and you’ll live in a beautiful city with uniquely rich human and physical geography that we integrate into our teaching through all four years of your degree.
Your main base will be the Geography Institute in central Edinburgh close to the city centre and Holyrood Park, a vibrant student and city community.
You’ll receive teaching from and make connections with leading scientists and scholars addressing today’s major climate, environmental and social challenges.
Our residential field courses, based in UK and European locations, will provide you with core geography experiences while being mindful to balance carbon costs.
I am confident that you will immensely enjoy your four years of university studies, become uniquely well-trained in practical skills highly valued by employers, and go on to pursue a highly successful career.
Robert Bingham
Degree Programme Convenor for Geography
What do our students and alumni think?
Student stories
Sheela Steele, BSc Geography, shares the highlights of studying Geography and graduating at Edinburgh Castle.
Alumni stories
Take a look at our alumni profiles for an insight into student experience, life after graduation and careers.
Read our undergraduate alumni profiles
Listen to more on Multi Story Podcast – GeoSciences special
Field trips
Field trips are integral to your learning, helping you gain hands-on experience in real-world settings. All costs for compulsory field trips (travel, accommodation, and subsistence) are covered by the programme. You’ll gain valuable skills in data collection, interpretation, and collaboration.
Watch our Geography field trip playlist
Career Opportunities
Graduates pursue careers in geospatial data analysis, environmental consultancy, planning and surveying, and more. Past roles include Carbon Management Project Officer, Science Engagement Officer and Government Liaison Officer. Our Careers Service offers tailored advice, networking, and internship opportunities.
Meet your lecturers
You’ll learn from leading geographers at the forefront of their field, undertaking world-leading research – from urban geography to climate change.
Explore our staff profiles to learn more about the experts who will guide you through your degree.
Student Life
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