Geography is the study of Earth’s landscapes, people, places and environment and therefore bridges the social sciences (Human Geography) and the natural sciences (Physical Geography). This course wil explore how human and physical geography interact to create unique places and an interconnected planet. Geography is highly valued by universities and is a subject that gives A Level students the skills to succeed in Higher Education and the world of work.

GCSE English Language grade 4 or above
GCSE Mathematics grade 4 or above
GCSE Geography grade 5 or above

Component 1 – Physical Geography
The Physical Geography component is made up of the following:

• Section A – Water and carbon cycles
• Section B – Coastal systems and landscapes
• Section C – Hazards

Component 2 – Human Geography
The Human Geography component is made up of the following:

• Section A – Global systems and global governance
• Section B – Changing places
• Section C – Contemporary urban environments

Component 3 – Geographical Investigation
Students are required to complete four days of field work over the two-year course. Currently, this is achieved through a three-day compulsory residential field trip and at least one day of additional fieldwork in the local area.

Students complete an individual investigation which must include data collected in the field. The individual investigation (coursework or Non-Examined Assessment or NEA) must be based on a question or issue defined and developed by the student relating to any part of the specification content. The investigation will be approximately 3-4000 words in length and can focus on an individual student’s area of interest in Geography.

Component 1 – Physical Geography
Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes –
40% of A Level

Component 2 – Human Geography
Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes –
40% of A Level

Component 3 – Geographical Investigation
Non-examined assessment –
20% of A Level

Geography is a sought-after subject amongst employers because it equips students with a wide range of different skills. As A Level geographers students will develop skills in numeracy, literacy and ICT as well as more subject-specific skills such as the use of maps and Geographical Information Systems. Geographers enter a wide range of careers including finance (accountancy, banking, management and consultancy), sustainability, education, marketing, sales, advertising, law and social/health services. In addition, many geographers choose degrees leading to careers directly related to the subject such as town planning, surveying and environmental management.

Learners should always check the entry requirements for degree programmes with specific higher education providers.