Geography is a popular subject at university with a wide range of topics that explore both the human and physical world around us. Whether you're interested in how human activities shape cities and economies, or in the natural forces that create mountains and oceans, geography offers a wealth of knowledge that applies to many real-world issues.
No matter if you want to study the social sciences or delve into the earth's physical landscapes, studying geography at a top university will give you a solid foundation for a successful future. From Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees to Masters (MA and MSc) programmes, the UK is home to some of the world’s best universities for geography courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Geography is all about understanding the world we live in and how to tackle some of the biggest global challenges, such as climate change, urbanisation, and sustainability.
The subject can be divided into two main areas: human geography and physical geography. Universities often offer both a BA and BSc in geography, so you can choose which area suits your interests best.
Bachelor of Arts (BA): Focuses on human geography. This includes studying how we use and interact with the world, how our civilisation has grown to use resources and change the world around us, the impact of economics, population, consumerism, manufacturing and all those things we as humans do to the earth. Topics like urban planning, population growth, and globalisation are key areas of study.
Bachelor of Science (BSc): This degree is more focused on physical geography, which looks at natural processes. It tends to concentrate on the earth, tectonics, rocks, natural elements, the chemistry and physics of how the world works, climate, landscape, oceans, pollution and the many interesting aspects of the physical world and how it operates. You’ll dive into areas like environmental science, natural disasters, and earth systems.
Both are fascinating areas of study that prepare students for a variety of careers.
Many universities also offer Masters programmes (MA and MSc) for those looking to continue their studies at postgraduate level. These often focus on more specialised areas like Environmental Policy, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), or Sustainability.
A geography degree opens doors to many exciting careers. The skills you develop—like data analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving—are highly valuable in various sectors.
There is no limit or restriction to what type of career you can have with a geography degree, but there are a few that will utilise many aspects of what you learn.
Career paths can include:
City or transport planning
International development
Economy and population planning
Environmental and climate consultancy
Architecture
Business and manufacturing
Government positions
NGO and non-profits
Teaching and research
And here are some specific job roles where a geography degree is especially useful:
Urban Planner: Help design and manage the development of towns and cities, balancing the needs of communities and the environment.
Environmental Consultant: Advise companies or governments on how to reduce their environmental impact and comply with environmental laws.
GIS Specialist: Work with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to collect and analyse spatial data for industries like transportation, defence, and urban planning.
Climate Change Analyst: Study the impacts of climate change and work on solutions to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability.
Transport Planner: Plan efficient transportation systems to improve traffic flow and reduce pollution in cities.
Disaster Response Coordinator: Help communities prepare for and respond to natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes.
Sustainability Consultant: Guide businesses and governments on how to operate more sustainably and reduce their carbon footprints.
These are just a few examples, but geography graduates are found in many fields, including education, business, and non-profit sectors. The ability to understand both human and natural systems makes geographers highly adaptable.
Let’s take a look at some of the top universities in the UK for studying geography, based on the University Subject League Table for Geography & Environmental Science from the Complete University Guide.
These universities are renowned for their geography programmes, offering high-quality teaching and excellent facilities, alongside internationally recognised research.
Ranked as one of the top universities globally, it’s no surprise that the University of Cambridge is rated as the best university for geography in the UK. It offers a highly regarded BA (Hons) in Geography which covers both physical and human geography, blending theoretical knowledge with practical fieldwork. Cambridge’s geography faculty is highly respected for its cutting-edge research, and the programme includes fieldwork opportunities in the UK and abroad. The university also offers an MPhil (Masters of Philosophy) degree in geography for those looking to further their studies with a PhD.
Subject League Table: 1st
University League Table: 1st
Entry requirements: 152 UCAS points
The University of Oxford is consistently ranked number 1 in the world, making its Geography BA (Hons) course one of the most prestigious degrees you can earn. Oxford’s geography course includes both human and physical geography, with the option to specialise as you progress. It is known for its rigorous academic standards and world-class research, with state-of-the-art facilities such as the Geography Research and Teaching Laboratories and the Oxford Luminescence Dating Laboratory. The university also offers MSc and DPhil programmes (Oxford’s equivalent of a PhD) for students aiming for advanced studies or a career in academia.
Subject League Table: 2nd
University League Table: 2nd
Entry requirements: 112-165 UCAS points
Located northeast of Edinburgh, St Andrews is the best university for geography in Scotland, offering almost 50 courses from undergraduate degrees to specialised MSc programmes.
It’s also ranked as the fourth best university in the UK, it’s known for the quality of its research and teaching, with consistently high ratings for student satisfaction, making it a fantastic option for those wanting to study in Scotland.
St Andrews is the oldest university in Scotland and is particularly well-regarded for its fieldwork opportunities, including trips to locations in Europe and beyond.
Subject League Table: 3rd
University League Table: 4th
Entry requirements: 112-160 UCAS points
Durham University ranks among the top UK universities for geography, offering BA and BSc degrees that blend human and physical geography. Durham’s geography department is highly regarded for its research, particularly in areas like climate change and development studies. The university also offers a range of Masters programmes, including an MSc in Risk that focuses on environmental hazards and disaster management.
Subject League Table: 4th
University League Table: 7th
Entry requirements: 136-168 UCAS points
If you're interested in human geography with an emphasis on economic systems, the London School of Economics (LSE) should be on your radar. LSE’s geography programmes blend social science with geography, offering unique perspectives on issues like urban development, globalisation, and environmental economics.
LSE offers a BA in Geography as well as several MSc degrees, including Urbanisation & Development and Environment & Development. Its central location in London makes it a great place for students interested in urban studies and economic geography, with many opportunities for internships.
Subject League Table: 5th
University League Table: 3rd
Entry requirements: 136-144 UCAS points
Another excellent choice for geography, University College London (UCL) is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach. UCL’s geography courses are highly flexible, allowing students to specialise in areas like urban studies, climate change, GIS, or human geography. UCL is particularly well-regarded for its research in climate change and environmental sustainability. The geography department also offers a wide range of Masters programmes, including an MSc in Climate Change and an MSc in Global Migration. The location in central London also provides countless opportunities for networking and fieldwork.
Subject League Table: 6th
University League Table: 9th
Entry requirements: 144-168 UCAS points
Loughborough University may not have the same high profile as Oxford or Cambridge, but it does rank in the top 10 best unis for geography in the UK. The university offers BA, BSc, and MSc degrees, with a focus on both human geography and environmental sustainability. Loughborough is known for its strong student satisfaction scores and excellent facilities.
Subject League Table: 7th
University League Table: 6th
Entry requirements: 104-136 UCAS points
The University of Bristol offers geography courses that focus on both physical geography and environmental science. With its strong emphasis on research-led teaching, students can explore topics like climate change and ecosystem conservation, making it an excellent choice for those interested in the earth’s physical processes. Bristol also offers a range of Masters programmes, including MSc in Climate Change Science and Policy, ideal for students looking to pursue careers in environmental policy or science.
Subject League Table: 8th
University League Table: 16th
Entry requirements: 104-159 UCAS points
Another top Scottish university, the University of Edinburgh is one of the best places to study geography in this part of the UK. It offers a wide variety of geography courses that cater to both human and physical geography interests. Its Geography BSc is particularly strong in environmental geography, with a focus on fieldwork and research. Edinburgh also offers a MSc in Environmental Sustainability and MSc in GIS, giving students the chance to specialise in high-demand areas.
Subject League Table: 9th
University League Table: 15th
Entry requirements: 108-152 UCAS points
The University of Leeds offers one of the most comprehensive geography programmes in the UK with a broad range of BA and BSc degrees. From human geography to physical geography and GIS, Leeds provides a diverse range of courses, making it a well-rounded choice for geography students. The university is highly regarded for its research in climate science and sustainable development, and offers specialised Masters programmes like MSc in Climate Change and Environmental Policy. Leeds also has strong links with international organisations, making it a great choice for students interested in global issues.
Subject League Table: 10th
University League Table: 23rd
Entry requirements: 136-144 UCAS points
Looking for more options? Here are additional universities offering top-rated geography courses that may not be at the very top of league tables but still provide excellent programmes and student experiences.
Cardiff University is rated the best university for geography in Wales. It offers both BA and BSc degrees, as well as a range of Masters programmes, including an MSc in Climate Change. Cardiff is known for its high student satisfaction rates and fieldwork opportunities, making it a great option for those interested in environmental geography.
The University of Birmingham offers a range of geography degrees that blend human and physical geography with strong research-led teaching. Their geography courses often include field trips both within the UK and internationally. Birmingham is also known for its high student satisfaction rates and its focus on real-world problem-solving. It’s an ideal choice for students who want a balance between theory and field-based learning.
Lancaster University is well-regarded for its geography department, which focuses on sustainability, climate change, and environmental management. Lancaster boasts high levels of student satisfaction, offering a broad spectrum of courses, from BA to MSc in geography, including a popular MSc in Environmental Management.
At the University of Sheffield, the geography department offers both BA and BSc degrees, but the standout course is the Geography MGeogSci.
Accredited by the Royal Geographical Society, this four-year integrated master's programme focuses on physical geography, including independent research and technical training, providing an excellent balance of field-based learning and technical training.
Located on the south coast of England, the University of Southampton offers a variety of geography courses. Southampton is particularly strong in environmental geography, with specialised courses in marine and coastal environments. Southampton’s geography department is known for its strong emphasis on sustainability and climate change, making it an excellent choice for environmentally focused students.
So, now you know the best unis for geography in the UK, the hardest part now is picking the right one!
Choosing where to study geography in the UK is a big decision, but with so many excellent universities to choose from, you’re bound to find one that fits your interests and career goals.
When selecting a university to study geography, don’t forget to consider other factors beyond the academic course, such as the location of the institution, available transportation options, and the cost of student accommodation in the area.
Whether you’re passionate about human geography or fascinated by the physical world, these universities offer top-tier courses, world-class research, and plenty of opportunities for fieldwork and hands-on learning. Whichever university you choose, a geography degree will equip you with the skills and knowledge to succeed in a range of exciting careers.