Modules

• Year 1

  Core Modules

  Human Geography: Society, Economy and Population (20 credits)

  ×

  Human Geography: Society, Economy and Population

  Overview

  This course will address central themes connected with social, economic and population geography. It will introduce and examine a range of economic, social and demographic processes operating across different scales. These will be illustrated through real-world examples that link with some of the urgent challenges that face our world today. The course will also explore contributions human geography can make to governmental and non-governmental policy development.

  Learning Outcomes

  On completion of this module, you should have attained an understanding of key concepts, approaches, examples and policy issues associated with contemporary social, economic and demographic processes. This should enable you to: identify the key concepts used by geographers interested in those processes; understand a diversity of perspectives found in social, economic and population geography; undertake bibliographic searches of a wide range of academic and non-academic texts; read and critically appraise a wide range of source materials; describe and evaluate key policy issues associated with course material; construct and deliver sustained reasoned written arguments on these issues; work independently and in groups to evaluate approaches and issues.

  Skills

  Skills
  (T: taught; P: practiced; A: assessed)
  
  Discipline-specific skills: plan, design & execute independent research & study (TPA); combine &
  interpret different types of geographical evidence such as texts, visual images, maps, & qualitative &
  quantitative data (TPA); recognise moral & ethical issues in geographical debates & enquiries (TPA).
  
  Key skills: abstracting & synthesising information (TPA); assessing contrasting ideas, perspectives,
  explanations & policies (TPA); developing a reasoned argument (TPA); independent thought &
  self reflection (PA).
  
  Employability skills: learning & study (PA); written communication (TPA); motivation, empathy,
  insight & integrity (PA); self-awareness & self-management (PA).

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY1012

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Human Geography: Society, Power and Culture (20 credits)

  ×

  Human Geography: Society, Power and Culture

  Overview

  The twenty-first century world that we all inhabit and its 'human geographies' is not just a product of the 'modern age'. Rather, the world as we know it today is the result of diverse social, cultural, political and economic processes, of both gradual change and of occasional revolutions, occurring over many centuries, and ongoing still. This module attempts to make sense of these human geographies of the modern world by analysing three important and interconnected geographical themes: specifically, (1) globalism, and past and present local-global connections between individuals and societies; and; (2) geopolitics and the changing relations between regions and nation states (3) the changing scales and practices of everyday life in a globalised world. In addition to developing your geographical understanding of the modern world, the module seeks to develop key study and research skills to prepare you for more advanced study in levels two and three.

  Learning Outcomes

  Identify the range of theoretical perspectives used in Human Geography. Understand how Human Geography can contribute to analyses of contemporary and historical societies. Understand why there is disparity in development across the world. Understand how and why people have sought to develop social theories and put these into practice. Understand the relationships between population, economic opportunities and resources. Understand how geographers have considered the relationships between nature, society and landscape. Realise how considerations of race and gender inform our understanding of culture.

  Skills

  Taught: Principles of Human Geography, how society & its variations over space can be and has been scrutinised & understood. Practiced: Essay writing, field observation and interpretation, library & individual study skills, written presentation of material.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY1011

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Physical Geography: Earth, Wind and Water (20 credits)

  ×

  Physical Geography: Earth, Wind and Water

  Overview

  The module will reinforce and build on knowledge and understanding of physical geography and the environment by introducing students to some of the major processes that drive the Earth system and the interactions between the various spheres. This ‘big picture’ module will have a global focus, but will also provide regional and local examples of how the Earth system operates, interacts and changes across time and space to shape our landscapes and environments. The module will cover three key spheres from the Earth system as follows:
  
  • The Atmosphere introduces the topic of climatology, covering the processes that drive weather and climate, and a range of associated meteorological extremes including tropical cyclones and heat waves.
  
  • The Hydrosphere introduces the topic of hydrology, covering the processes that drive the Earth’s water systems, and a range of associated hydrological extremes including flooding and drought.
  
  • The Biosphere introduces the topic of biogeography, covering the processes that drive living ecosystems, and the interactions with the abiotic components of the Earth system.

  Learning Outcomes

  After completing the module students should:
  1) Develop a knowledge and understanding of the major processes that drive the atmosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere, and the interactions with the other components of the Earth system
  2) Develop field skills to collect primary data
  3) Apply numerical computing skills to collect, analyse and present secondary data
  4) Gain experience in developing posters for effective communication of information
  5) Develop the ability to interpret analysed outputs
  6) Gain experience in writing detailed exam answers

  Skills

  Scientific writing; statistical analysis; graphical presentation; primary data collection; secondary data collection; interpretation of geographical information; critical analysis; referencing.

  Coursework

  50%

  Examination

  50%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY1009

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Physical Geography: Earth, Fire and Ice (20 credits)

  ×

  Physical Geography: Earth, Fire and Ice

  Overview

  The module will reinforce and build on knowledge and understanding of physical geography and the environment by introducing students to some of the major processes that drive the Earth system and the interactions between the various spheres. This ‘big picture’ module will have a global focus, but will also provide regional and local examples of how the Earth system operates, interacts and changes across time and space to shape our landscapes and environments. The module will cover two key spheres from the Earth system as follows:
  
  • The Lithosphere introduces the topics of geology and geomorphology, covering the processes that shape the earth’s sub-surface and surface, the resulting landforms and landscapes, and a range of associated hazards including earthquakes, volcanoes, and mass movements.
  
  • The Cryosphere introduces the topic of glaciology, covering the frozen components of the Earth system and the interactions with the other spheres in driving landscape and environmental change in cold climates.

  Learning Outcomes

  After completing the module students should:
  1) Develop a knowledge and understanding of the major processes that drive the lithosphere and cryosphere, and the interactions with the other components of the Earth system
  2) Develop field skills to collect primary data
  3) Gain experience in writing scientifically in the form of a report
  4) Develop the ability to interpret analysed outputs
  5) Gain experience in writing answers under class test conditions

  Skills

  Scientific writing; statistical analysis; graphical presentation; primary data collection; secondary data collection; interpretation of geographical information; critical analysis; referencing.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY1007

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Optional Modules

  World Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  World Politics

  Overview

  The module examines the development of the international system and raises questions about how and whether this system is changing in light of processes of globalisation. International relations theories of realism, idealism and critical approaches will be introduced, as well as issues of war and conflict, global inequality, poverty, climate change, race and gender.

  Learning Outcomes

  To provide an introduction to two important sub-disciplines of Politics, International Relations and Comparative Politics, while enlarging students' knowledge of current affairs.

  Skills

  To enable students to follow world affairs intelligently and to appreciate the historical background to contemporary developments, as well as how current conflicts are related to structures of political and economic power in the world.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI1006

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

• Year 2

  Core Modules

  Contemporary Approaches to Geographical Enquiry (20 credits)

  ×

  Contemporary Approaches to Geographical Enquiry

  Overview

  This module examines the key theoretical debates which underpin contemporary approaches to research in human and physical Geography. The module consists of the identification and elucidation of the principal perspectives that are brought to bear on geographical themes. These include such themes as marxist, feminist and scientific approaches used in Geography. The module highlights the political, social, cultural, environmental and ethical implications of particular theories.

  Learning Outcomes

  By completing this module students will be able to identify the key theoretical approaches in human and physical geography. Be able to assess the contribution of particular theorists in the development of key debates within geography. Be able to rehearse and develop a clear line of argument\Be able to identify a research question that may be worthy of future enquiry and be equipped to undertake a literature review.

  Skills

  Key skills:To read critically\To understand complex arguments and rehearse them\To identify the links between theory and practice\To be creative\Subject-specific skills\To identify key theoretical debates in human and physical geography\To recognise the significance of theory to all geographical issues\To become familiar with the writings of key thinkers in contemporary Geography\To evaluate and synthesise the work of principal theorists\To begin to prepare for independent research at Level 3\Employability skills\To apply abstract ideas to practical problems\To work independently\To communicate effectively in written and oral forms\To meet deadlines and develop time management skills

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY2056

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Geography and Employability (0 credits)

  ×

  Geography and Employability

  Overview

  Employability skills are identified by QUB as important and essential components of the student learning experience at all undergraduate levels. Although there are elements of these in most of our modules the School has decided to introduce this in a formal framework through the GGY2059 module. The underlying ethos of this module is to get you to start planning for your future in the world of work and to make use of the assistance that the University provides through the Careers, Employability and Skills Directorate.

  Learning Outcomes

  After completing this module students should:
  
  • Appreciate the range of possible careers a Geography degree opens up
  • Gain experience in constructing a CV
  • Gain experience in making job applications
  • Be able to make productive use of online QUB Careers and Employability resources
  • Develop the ability to network in professional circles
  • Appreciate professionalism in the world of work

  Skills

  CV writing; job applications; networking; professionalism; time-management

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  0

  Module Code

  GGY2059

  Teaching Period

  Full Year

  Duration

  24 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Geographical Research Skills (20 credits)

  ×

  Geographical Research Skills

  Overview

  Research is a core aspect of Geography and an important part of a geographer’s work. It can encompass a wide range of contexts, whether in physical or human environments, rural or urban. This module is designed to equip students with a broad set of research skills designed to enable students to become more independent researchers and to tackle research projects in their final year. We will cover a range of generic research skills including sourcing academic literature, formulating research questions, aims and objectives, developing project timelines, and introducing research ethics. We will also examine subject-specific geographical research skills including the collection and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data from a range of primary and secondary sources.

  Learning Outcomes

  By successfully completing the module you will:
  
  • Have a firm knowledge of the essential generic research skills required to undertake independent research projects in Geography
  • Gain an understanding of how subject-specific methods can be used to undertake independent research projects in Geography
  • Understand the basic elements of, and be able to put into practice, a range of qualitative methods
  • Understand the basic elements of, and be able to put into practice, a range of quantitative methods

  Skills

  Successful completion of the module will result in acquisition and/or enhancement of the following skills:
  Key skills
  • The ability to think and argue critically and undertake problem solving
  • The ability to undertake self-directed learning
  • The ability to apply an appropriate methodology to a focused area of research
  
  Subject-related skills
  • The ability to communicate geographical ideas by written, oral and visual means
  • The ability to apply subject-specific techniques or approaches to the collection and analysis of geographical information
  
  Employability skills
  • Time-management skills.
  • Project planning skills
  • Report writing skills

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY2055

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Landscapes and Geographical Information (GIS) (20 credits)

  ×

  Landscapes and Geographical Information (GIS)

  Overview

  This module explores the multifaceted nature of landscape through the use and application of spatial technologies such as Geographical Information Systems (GIS), Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), including Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and remote sensing such as aerial and satellite imagery.

  Learning Outcomes

  The module introduces students to spatial technologies using a hands-on approach through practical exercises designed to help improve employability and subject skills as geographers and archaeologists, and also to equip students with technical skills applicable to independent research, for example in dissertations at Level 3. The module also raises conceptual questions about the nature of landscape, and how landscapes change over time, as well as opening up the advantages and also the limitations of using spatial technologies in landscape-based research. Students will analyse a range of spatial data, including digital mapping, and also collect field-survey data using GPS. The aim of the module then is to explore landscapes through a range of spatial and temporal scales, connecting past and present, using a combination of lecture, laboratory and field-teaching.

  Skills

  Written and oral skills; Information Computer Technology including Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and bibliographic databases; information sourcing and synthesis; critical evaluation and decision making; individual learning; group working and team skills.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY2002

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Optional Modules

  Mitigating Environmental Hazards (Fieldwork) (20 credits)

  ×

  Mitigating Environmental Hazards (Fieldwork)

  Overview

  The module will examine the management of contemporary environmental issues and natural hazards in Belgium. This small northern European country has a history of environmental issues brought about in large part by its dense population, and a deep vulnerability to natural hazards owing largely to its low-lying position. In response to these issues, Belgium has some of the finest examples of environmental management and mitigation. We will cover a range of environmental issues/natural hazards in the form of projects and will (1) explore their history and causes, (2) investigate their scale, and (3) evaluate examples of management. Each will be set within the context of recent trends and future projections of climate change, sea level rise, and population growth. The module will have a practical and applied focus, with emphasis on solving real-world problems.

  Learning Outcomes

  After completing the module students should gain:
  
  • A sound understanding of a range of environmental issues and natural hazards, and associated management strategies
  • Experience in applying observational, mapping, numerical and field skills to collect, analyse and present a range of primary and secondary data
  • Skills in interpreting analysed outputs and applying them to solve real-world problems
  • Oral and visual communication skills in the form of a PowerPoint presentation
  • Written communication skills in the form of a scientific report
  • Experience in working effectively as part of a team

  Skills

  Key skills
  
  •The ability to think and argue critically and undertake problem solving
  • The ability to undertake self-directed learning
  • The ability to work collaboratively on a project within a group, taking part in managing the project, supporting one another and working towards an agreed timeline.
  • Development of reflective skills with regard to module-related tasks and personal fieldwork experience.
  
  Subject related skills
  
  • The ability to communicate geographical ideas by evidenced written, oral and visual means
  • The ability to apply specialised techniques or approaches to the collection and analysis of geographical information
  • The ability to interpret a range of information
  
  Employability skills
  
  • Groupwork, leadership and time-management skills
  • Project planning and oral skills
  • Report writing, data synthesis and presentation skills

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY2062

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Space, Culture and Mobility (Fieldwork) (20 credits)

  ×

  Space, Culture and Mobility (Fieldwork)

  Overview

  Cultural, historical and political geographies form the basis of this module, the field course element of which is located in Malta. The dynamic between Maltese people, tourists and their shared environment are examined through mapping, observation, participation and analysis. Issues of urban cultural heritage, rural life, national identity, archaeological heritage, European migration and religious landscapes are examined through first-hand experience of key locations around the islands of the Maltese archipelago. Self-motivation is fundamental, under guidance, with elements of student-driven and small group work

  Learning Outcomes

  To gain a practical understanding of observational and analytical field data collection methods, both theoretically as well as in an outdoor environment, where urban fabric, vulnerable landscapes, land use, sacred spaces, and heritage management issues can all be explored. Data collection and presentation are key.

  Skills

  Skills acquired (T: taught; P: practiced; A: assessed):
  Successful completion of the module will result in acquisition and enhancement of the following skills:
  • Cognitive skills: problem solving, working with groups both in terms of data collection and presentation, reflective skills, experience of written and oral presentations, self-directed learning, observational and other fieldwork skills developed in a new environment (T,P,A)
  • Subject-related skills: Collection and communication of human geographical information about Malta in its regional geographical context, fieldwork in a historically significant yet vulnerable environment, wider knowledge of cultural, political and historical geographies of the region (T,P,A)
  • Transferable skills: Group work, time-management, planning, reports, presentations (T,P,A)

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY2063

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Urban Landscapes (Fieldwork) (20 credits)

  ×

  Urban Landscapes (Fieldwork)

  Overview

  Europe’s towns and cities are in a constant state of flux, and have been for millennia. This field-based module explores this theme through studying urban landscapes in Belgium and the Netherlands. The aim is to practise geographical research tools and methods in a range of urban settings, from tourist-historic cities through to modern ex-urban locations. Taking a ‘longue durée’ approach and spanning two thousand years of urban evolution and transformation in the Low Countries, the focus is on connecting past and present urban forms and landscapes, including study of representations of urbanism, such as maps and perspectives, as well as physical fabric and built form in the field itself. The field-module will also explore past ‘urban futures’, as well as the ‘future of the past’ in urban settings where demand for new development and threats such as climate and environmental change pose significant and real challenges for the 21st century and beyond.

  Learning Outcomes

  On completion of this module, students will:
  1. Identify the principal formative periods of European urban design and planning;
  2. Assess the contribution of particular urban designs and plans, past and present, to debates on how urban landscapes should be formed;
  3. Understand social and cultural processes that shape urban landscapes, both in historical and contemporary contexts through case study examples and field-study;
  4. Understand how historic urban landscapes are managed in contemporary contexts;
  5. Critically evaluate what academics (ie. geographers and historians), and practitioners (ie. architects and planners), have written on urban landscapes;
  6. Synthesise interdisciplinary concepts and ideas used in the study of urban landscapes.

  Skills

  The module is designed to equip students with the following:
  1. Characterise the built form of European urban landscapes;
  2. Recognise processes that shape urban landscapes;
  3. Understand why urban landscapes require management and control;
  4. Evaluate the work of academics and practitioners who study urban landscapes;
  5. Synthesise key concepts and ideas used in the study of urban landscapes;
  6. Think and argue critically;
  7. Undertake problem-solving;
  8. Work collaboratively independently;
  9. Communicate effectively, both visually and in writing;
  10. Apply theoretical (abstract) ideas to practical (life-like) scenarios;
  11. Work as part of a team;
  12. Be creative and imaginative;
  13. Manage time effectively, meeting deadlines and commitments;
  14. Prepare for further study in fields of urban geography and planning.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY2064

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Gender, Culture, and Representation – Backwards & in Heels (20 credits)

  ×

  Gender, Culture, and Representation – Backwards & in Heels

  Overview

  This interdisciplinary module introduces students to the central ideas of gender theory and to a wide variety of representations of gender across a range of media, including theatre, performance, literature, visual art, film and television. Using key texts and cultural works students are encouraged to examine critically the representation of gender across media, and the political, legal, and ethical dimensions of gender within our culture. The module involves a critical engagement with the relationship between identity, representation and culture and explores theories concerning the social construction of the masculine and feminine body. The module engages with several key issues, including the representation of femininity and masculinity, gender in the literary and theatrical canon of Western culture, the spatiality and temporality of gender, and its intersections with issues of race/ethnicity, class, and labour. Students will be asked to think about these issues and ideas across disciplines but also within their areas of study through seminars.

  Learning Outcomes

  Having completed this module, you should:
  
  * have engaged with a variety of representations of gender, the body and sexual identities within socio-historical, theoretical and representational frameworks and across multiple forms of media,
  
  * have cultivated an understanding of the theoretical and practical movements that have shaped the construction and representation of gender, sexuality and the body in culture,
  
  * have developed a critical understanding of the relationship between representation and identity.

  Skills

  Having completed this module, you should:
  
  * have developed reflexive thinking and independent critical and analytical skills.
  
  * have developed imaginative and communicative skills based on the application of reading materials to class presentations
  
  * have developed research and writing skills

  Coursework

  60%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  40%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  AEL2001

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Geomorphology (20 credits)

  ×

  Geomorphology

  Overview

  The interaction of geological drivers, surface processes, and climate dynamics are all crucial for explaining why the Earth’s surface looks and operates the way it does. This module will examine the different processes involved in the dynamic evolution of different landscapes across a range of spatial and temporal scales. Central to the module is understanding how environments changed through time and what the landscapes tell us about key characteristics of that journey. The module will also consider the social and economic impacts of this landscape evolution for people and the natural resources and geohazards these geomorphological processes can create. We also consider how these interactions may change in the future. The module will have a practical and applied focus, with emphasis on solving real-world problems.
  The module is split into several topics and will follow the journey of a droplet of water as it lands on the tallest mountains and works its way downstream to the lowest ocean basins, with some deviations along the way. None of the topics are discrete, and you will develop an understanding about how a geomorphologist must view the landscape holistically, whilst remembering that sometimes different processes have the same results and, sometimes, the same processes have different results. Through the course you will develop new knowledge on fluvial, tectonic, upland, hillslope, tropical, glacial, aeolian, volcanic, coastal, marine, and even planetary geomorphology. We will also investigate some of the methods employed by geomorphologists to understand the landscapes around us.

  Learning Outcomes

  After completing the module students should be able to:
  1) Develop new knowledge and understanding of a range of geomorphological processes
  2) Gain experience in how to disseminate scientific information to non-experts
  3) Develop the ability to interpret analysed outputs and apply these skills to solve real-world problems
  4) Apply I.T. mapping and numerical skills to collect, analyse and present secondary data
  5) Develop written communication skills in the form of a scientific report

  Skills

  - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of geomorphological landforms and processes in a range of environments.
  - Synthesize and summarize geomorphological information from a range of academic sources.
  - Apply field and GIS skills to the analysis of geomorphology for a glacial catchment.
  - Develop techniques on how to disseminate complex information.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY2052

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  From St Patrick to the Plantation: The Archaeology of Historic Ireland (20 credits)

  ×

  From St Patrick to the Plantation: The Archaeology of Historic Ireland

  Overview

  The study of Ireland from the 5th to 17th centuries through the physical remains of the past rather than documentary history. Early Christian crafts and settlements; the impact of the Vikings; the lordships of the Anglo-Normans and the problems of the later Middle Ages.

  Learning Outcomes

  1)An understanding of the key areas of archaeological evidence of the period; 2)appreciation of the relationship between archaeological and documentary evidence; 3)appreciation of the role of excavation in the study of the period; 4)an understanding of Ireland's position in medieval Europe.

  Skills

  1)Identifying evidence cited by authors holding different views on issues within the period; 2)An introduction to assessing the results published in primary sources, especially excavation reports.

  Coursework

  60%

  Examination

  40%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  ARP2045

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Geographies of Economic Restructuring and Social Change (20 credits)

  ×

  Geographies of Economic Restructuring and Social Change

  Overview

  This module is concerned with the analysis of contemporary social and economic change in advanced societies such as Britain and Northern Ireland. It introduces general concepts used to understand social and economic change, introducing topics such as social polarisation and Fordism/Post Fordism. It explores themes like geographies of labour market change, employment equality, and population change and uses examples from Northern Ireland and Belfast to show how these wider changes have played out more locally.

  Learning Outcomes

  By attending lectures students will gain an overview of some of the ways in social and economic restructuring has influenced advanced societies - and Northern Ireland and Belfast in particular - over the past three decades; they will also learn the basics of research social methods and secondary data in Northern Ireland; and also research proposal writing

  Skills

  Intellectual: understand and use appropriate geographical concepts and theories; discuss and evaluate the main dimensions of the social and economic restructuring of advanced societies; devise a research topic independently: Key: developing reasoned arguments; evaluating different perspectives; supporting viewpoints with appropriate evidence: employability: bibliographic research; experience of government secondary data sources; research proposal writing

  Coursework

  70%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  30%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY2044

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Planning and Climate Change (20 credits)

  ×

  Planning and Climate Change

  Overview

  This module is weighted at 20 CAT scores. Climate change is a colossal global, national and local challenge for politicians, policy makers and planners. It raises hugely important questions in terms of how we inhabit the Earth, how we organise our economies, how we use natural resources, how we travel, and how we plan our towns, cities and villages. This module is focused on how we, individually and collectively, can meet these challenges that we currently face, and to explore the political, economic, institutional and attitudinal barriers that impede effective responses to them. While many planning policy documents quote sustainable development and climate change as key objectives, the implementation and operationalisation of these concepts is often open to critique. As potential future planners you must therefore know the theory and practice of sustainable development and climate change and be aware of the areas of contestation. Although the scope of the subject is vast, this module aims to help you develop an understanding of the theoretical, political and policy dimensions of planning for climate change.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the module, you are expected to:
  
  • develop an understanding of the sustainability and climate change discourses;
  • be aware of the relationship between planning, sustainable development and climate change;
  • explain the contribution that planning can make to the built environment, in particular recognise the implications of climate change;
  • evaluate different development strategies and the practical application of development finance, and assess the implications for generating added value to the community be familiar with some local sustainability initiatives;
  • develop important elements of your intellectual, conceptual and practical skills base.

  Skills

  You are also expected to develop generic professional skills, such as the ability to:
  
  • identify and summarise core arguments of scholarly texts and government publications;
  • assess the arguments of competing positions and present personal opinion;
  • identify additional material (books, articles, reports, website) and assess their quality;
  • think critically, creatively and writing reports.

  Coursework

  80%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  20%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  EVP2009

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Global Environmental Change (20 credits)

  ×

  Global Environmental Change

  Overview

  The module will focus on the nature, causes and consequences of environmental change. Changes in the various aspects of the Earth system including the Earth’s climate, hydrological systems and ecosystems will be investigated. A range of geographical methods will be employed to examine these changes, including palaeo-environmental records. The role of humans in changing the Earth’s environment will be investigated and will be placed in the context of past environmental change and natural variability.

  Learning Outcomes

  After completion of the module students will:
  • Have a knowledge and understanding of the causes and consequences of environmental change over different timescales
  • Develop skills in analysing and interpreting secondary environmental data
  • Be able to interpret and critically evaluate scientific literature
  • Enhance skills in scientific writing

  Skills

  Students are expected to allocate study time in proportion to the significance of issues covered within the lecture course. Successful completion of the module will result in acquisition and/or enhancement of the following skills. (P=Practised; T=Taught; A=Assessed)
  Subject-specific skills
  Key skills
  Employability skills (see ‘key skills’ above)
  Critical thinking, verbal and written communication, explanation of complex ideas and concepts, presentation, analysis and interpretation of numerical information, ability to synthesise and critique multiple sources of information.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY2058

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

• Year 3

  Core Modules

  Geography Dissertation (40 credits)

  ×

  Geography Dissertation

  Overview

  This module requires students to write a dissertation that is based on substantive individual research on a geographical topic of the student’s choice. The dissertation presents the evolution of the student’s thoughts and research activity on a specific topic, informed by geographical concepts and ideas. This module draws upon subject-specific knowledge and key skills from other modules offered in the School, applying these skills and knowledge to an independent piece of geographical research.

  Learning Outcomes

  - Understanding of the importance of research, including its limitations
  - A detailed understanding of research methods and sampling
  - Experience of writing at length
  - Extensive subject-specific knowledge in an area of geographical research
  - Knowledge of how to structure and plan an independent research project, including the formulation of a research topic, definition of research aims and objectives
  - Understanding how to contextualise a topic through conducting bibliographic searches and formulating a critical understanding of related literature across disciplines
  - Understanding how to assimilate and present a coherent appraisal of primary and secondary sources

  Skills

  Skills: (cognitive, subject-specific, transferrable)
  - Critical, analytical & creative thinking and problem solving skills (c, t)
  - Written communication skills (c,t)
  - Primary research skills, including qualitative and/or quantitative research skills (c, s, t)
  - Collaborative, planning and organisational skills (c, t)
  - Fieldwork skills (s, t)
  - Judgement of ethics and risk (t)
  - Managing and prioritising knowledge (c, t)
  - Reflecting critically on one’s progress (c, t) 

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  40

  Module Code

  GGY3081

  Teaching Period

  Full Year

  Duration

  24 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  Yes

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Geography At Work (40 credits)

  ×

  Geography At Work

  Overview

  This module centres upon a research project devised to the specification of an external employer. It is modelled on the work of professional consultants, who are drafted in to an organisation to undertake a piece of independent research and develop a set of ideas, solutions or proof of concept. The module provides you with an introduction to the demands of the professional workplace and an opportunity to explore the synergies between your learning and achievements as a Geographer with the needs of various government and not-for-profit organisations. You will be part of a student-led project team, mentored by an academic and a representative of the organisation you are undertaking the research for. Your research will be undertaken pro bono as a form of civic engagement and the outputs will placed within the public domain afterwards. This module utilises links members of staff within Geography have with these employers, providing you with an opportunity to hone and strengthen a variety of skills related to employability as a graduate.

  Learning Outcomes

  On completion of this module you should be able to:
  
  - Demonstrate how your Geography degree programme, associated learning and key skills can inform complex and difficult decisions that confront government, civic society or not-for-profit organisations (‘the employer’)
  
  - Use ideas and techniques to frame appropriate questions, gather information, describe, analyse and make informed judgments on a research topic commissioned by an external organisation (‘the employer’)
  
  - Illustrate how you can exercise initiative, personal responsibility and team working skills in fulfilling the brief of ‘the employer’ to an agreed schedule in complex and unpredictable contexts
  
  - Communicate information, ideas, problems and solutions to both specialist and non-specialist audiences in a variety of ways and settings
  
  - Reflect on and explain to others how the knowledge, skills and experience that you have gained as a geographer translate as assets within the graduate labour market

  Skills

  Critically evaluate field-based tasks and solve problems independently and as a team. Undertake self-directed learning. To complete tasks within a group setting and present findings in group discussions and oral presentations in a professional context. Undertake reflective learning with regard to module-related tasks, fieldwork and research experience. Synthesising and presenting information. Developing reasoned arguments. The ability to think and argue critically.
  
  Subject related skills
  
  The ability to communicate geographical ideas by written, oral and visual means; the ability to apply specialised techniques or approaches to the collection and analysis of geographical information; field-interpretation through application of observational skills; the ability to carry out independent field research.
  
  Employability skills
  
  Group work, leadership and time-management related skills; project planning and oral skills; independent research; report writing and presentation skills

  Coursework

  85%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  15%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  40

  Module Code

  GGY3065

  Teaching Period

  Full Year

  Duration

  24 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Optional Modules

  Environmental Catastrophes (20 credits)

  ×

  Environmental Catastrophes

  Overview

  Environmental catastrophes occur when there is a rapid departure from normality and humans and/or ecosystems are unable to adapt. This module aims to give students a deep understanding of environmental catastrophes in terms of causes, mechanisms, and consequences. We will investigate natural and human-caused catastrophes over a variety of temporal and spatial scales (past-present-future).
  
  This module will cover important geographical topics including geohazards (e.g., volcanic eruptions, tsunamis and storm surges), and human-induced catastrophes (e.g., pollution, radiation disasters, loss of biodiversity and habitat destruction). In addition, we will investigate catastrophes that have been driven by natural factors in the Earth’s past, but are now being driven by anthropogenic activity (e.g. mass extinctions, rapid climate change). We will also consider theoretical constructs such as the Anthropocene, ecosystem resilience, and tipping points in the Earth System. The field trips will apply theoretical knowledge learned during the lectures into practice. Specific lecture content is subject to change.

  Learning Outcomes

  After completing the module students will:
  1. Understand the causes and consequences of past, present, and future environmental catastrophes;
  2. Understand and critically evaluate scientific evidence;
  3. Develop enhanced skills in scientific writing;
  4. Develop enhanced skills in writing detailed essay-based exam answers.

  Skills

  • time management;
  • referencing of published literature;
  • data collection, synthesis and evaluation;
  • presentation and communication skills;
  • ability to communicate complex information to a range of audiences;
  • ability to undertake independent learning;
  • understanding of how knowledge gained fits into an employable role;
  • critical understanding of scientific evidence;
  • scientific writing.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY3095

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Maps and Mappings (20 credits)

  ×

  Maps and Mappings

  Overview

  Mapping is fundamental to how geographers, archaeologists, architects and planners construct and convey their ideas. More broadly, maps reflect the conditions and cultural contexts in which they are made and used, from the distant past through to the present-day. Addressing conceptual, empirical and technical approaches to cartography, this module explores in critical ways the complexity of maps and mapping through focusing on: 1. Histories of cartography; 2. Mapping and landscapes; and 3. Spatialities of mapping. The module consists of lectures on these three core topics, associated practical exercises and discussions undertaken as group-work activities, as well as field- and archival-study to explore the relationships between mapping and landscape. The module is designed to provide students with exposure to cartography as an interpretative tool for use in research, and to develop critical awareness of the power of maps and mapping.

  Learning Outcomes

  Through completing this module students will acquire a deeper understanding and appreciation of cartography, particularly in the subject areas of geography and archaeology, recognising that maps are culturally-embedded and socially-constructed; they will be able to evaluate the role and application of mapping for studying places and landscapes, with opportunities for field-study; they will be able to assess recent critical debates about cartographers and cartography; they will have an understanding of the potential cartography has as a research tool for use in independent study.

  Skills

  Subject-related: Include map interpretation and map drawing; relating cartographic content to landscapes and places; ability to make use of digital and analogue mapping to generate and evaluate cartographic/landscape histories.
  Cognitive skills: Students will be able to describe, assess and analyse key elements of the history of cartography, and critically evaluate academic debates on maps and mapping.
  Transferable skills: Students will be able to create structured topic-work through independent study, work in groups in preparation of and participation in class-practicals, and present and evaluate information using analogue and digital mapping.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY3090

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Health Geography (20 credits)

  ×

  Health Geography

  Overview

  The module provides a theoretical and practical background to the geographical study of health. The module encompasses three broad topics; health and environment, health inequalities, and health policy. Under these themes, we will demonstrate to students the importance of geography in influencing an individual’s health status, how to produce and collect empirical evidence to support these theories, and also provide an understanding of how research and evidence can influence public health policy. The module will have a practical and applied focus, with emphasis on solving real-world problems. It will also introduce the students to using R, which will be of great benefit to their future study/career. It will also include guest lectures from outside of the department and QUB to reflect our collaborations and multi-disciplinary approach.

  Learning Outcomes

  After completing this module, students will develop:
  
  • An understanding of how the environment influences both mental and physical health
  • An understanding of the extent and nature of health inequalities and the challenges faced in overcoming them
  • Experience in using R
  • Experience in analysing secondary data from at least two countries with different population data systems including Northern Ireland and Finland
  • Skills in interpreting analysed outputs and applying them to solve real-world problems
  • Oral and visual communication skills in the form of a PowerPoint presentation
  • Written communication skills in the form of an essay and report
  • Experience in working effectively as part of a team

  Skills

  Key skills
  
  • The ability to think and argue critically and undertake problem solving
  • The ability to undertake self-directed learning
  • The ability to work within a team.
  
  Subject related skills
  
  • The ability to communicate geographical ideas by evidenced written, oral and visual means
  • The ability to produce descriptive tables and basic graphs using R
  • The ability to apply analytical techniques or approaches to geographical information
  • The ability to interpret a range of information
  
  Employability skills
  
  • Groupwork, leadership and time-management skills
  • Project planning and oral skills
  • Report writing, data synthesis and presentation skills

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY3096

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Remaking Cities: Comparative Urban Research (20 credits)

  ×

  Remaking Cities: Comparative Urban Research

  Overview

  Who holds political power in cities, and how do they use it to remake them? “Remaking Cities” lets you explore the development dynamics of neoliberal cities and build a practical toolkit to evaluate the capacity for community development in the post-pandemic era. This module offers you an opportunity to engage in practical research on the ways that Pittsburgh’s and Belfast’s neighbourhoods are being shaped by community-based and city-led plans.
  The cornerstone of the module is team-based research on neighbourhood development processes in Belfast and Pittsburgh, blending local observations and the wider literature to create a comparative analysis of urban processes. Each team will focus on one of five framings through which the ‘remaking’ of these cities can be evaluated, such as: the activist city; the global city; the sustainable city; the creative city; and the connected city. The teams will draw together students from Queen’s and the University of Pittsburgh, offering an opportunity for cross-cultural collaboration, sharing first-hand lived experiences, and the co-production of comparative insights.

  Learning Outcomes

  On completion of this module you should:
  
  - Develop an understanding of how economic, political, social and cultural processes shape the lived conditions of specific cities in the United States and Europe;
  - Be able to engage with theoretical concepts related to neoliberalism as a prevailing yet contingent context for the remaking of cities;
  - Gain a critical understanding of key themes, concepts and debates on contemporary cities by gathering and analysing data which can inform these debates;
  - Evidence a familiarity with key scholarly techniques including field research, data analysis, oral presentations, and report writing.
  - Be able to demonstrate an ability to collaborate with others, communicate effectively across different cultures and institutional contexts, manage a project, and meet agreed goals in a timely fashion.

  Skills

  Key skills
  
  Undertake self-directed learning; critically evaluate field-based tasks; synthesise and present information; ability to think and argue critically; develop reasoned arguments; solve problems independently and as part of a team; project manage as part of a team; complete team-based tasks to time, presenting findings within a professional context; undertake reflective learning.
  
  Subject related skills
  
  The ability to communicate ideas about cities and contemporary urban processes by written, oral and visual means; the ability to apply specialised techniques or approaches to the collection and analysis of urban data; field-interpretation through application of observational skills in an urban context; the ability to carry out independent field research in cities.
  
  Employability skills
  
  Group work, leadership and time-management related skills; project planning and communication skills; independent research; report writing and presentation skills; cross cultural communication.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  NBE3001

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Geographies of Outer Space (20 credits)

  ×

  Geographies of Outer Space

  Overview

  This module will explore the ways in which outer space has been imagined and explored in the modern age. The module will draw on level 1 and level 2 engagements with cultural, historical and political geography in presenting outer space as a cultural landscape. Topics covered will include the NASA Apollo missions, the Cold War ‘space race’, as well as British and European imaginations of outer space in fiction, art and science. Key conceptual considerations will include the extent to which scientific and artistic cultures have overlapped in imaginations of outer space, and the connections between (inter)nationalism and space exploration.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will have attained:
  - A detailed knowledge of the ways in which outer space has been conceptualised in the modern age;
  - An understanding of the historical context of space exploration
  - An appreciation of how the geographies of outer space connect to broader national and international scientific cultures

  Skills

  On successful completion, students will have acquired skills including (T taught, P practiced, A assessed):
  
  Subject specific:
  1) To identify and appreciate the key conceptual approaches used in the geographies of outer space (T; P; A);
  2) To identify, understand and interpret relevant subject- specific arguments made by others; (T; P; A);
  3) An ability to critically assess a wide range of cultural texts including visual imagery, cinematic film and popular literature (T, P, A)
  4) To think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field (P; A)
  
  Cognitive skills:
  1) Managing & prioritising knowledge: to identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge (T; P; A);
  2) Analytical thinking: to identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject- specific arguments made by others (P; A);
  3) Abstract and synthesise information from a range of different geographical sources (T; P; A)
  
  Transferable skills:
  1) Written and oral communication (P, A);
  2) To reflect on one’s own progress (P);
  3) To negotiate diverse and competing pressures (P);
  4) To use evidence to develop logical and clear arguments (P; A)

  Coursework

  75%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  25%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY3075

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Ice Cold Environments (20 credits)

  ×

  Ice Cold Environments

  Overview

  The cryosphere contains the parts of the Earth's surface where water is in solid form. This includes sea, lake, and river ice, glaciers, ice caps, ice sheets, snow cover, and frozen ground. Whether it is snow and ice reflecting heat from the sun or ice sheet growth and decay changing sea levels, the different components of the cryosphere play a fundamental role in the Earth’s climate system. As such, the polar regions are especially sensitive and provide one of the first places to look for evidence of climate change.
  
  This module will discuss the different elements of the cryosphere to investigate what their key characteristics are, the environmental processes that operate, how these settings have changed through geological history, and what their potential fate is under a warming climate. It will explore the linkages and importance of the cryosphere in relation to the rest of the climate system. Students will have the opportunity to partake in a fieldtrip investigating some of the last glaciers in Northern Ireland, and interact with different datasets capturing cryosphere change. By the end of the module students will have developed an intricate understanding of the complexities and uncertainties that relate to these cold regions.

  Learning Outcomes

  After completing the module students will:
  1. Understand how and why we have the cryosphere and why we have glaciations;
  2. Understand the different components of the cryosphere and why each is important at a global scale;
  3. Understand how the cryosphere is currently changing;
  4. Be able to respond critically to pseudo-science relating to the cryosphere.

  Skills

  • Time management;
  • Referencing of published literature;
  • Data collection and preparation;
  • Presentation and communication skills;
  • Ability to undertake independent learning;
  • Critical understanding of scientific evidence;
  • Different ways of writing scientifically.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY3097

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Climate Change (20 credits)

  ×

  Climate Change

  Overview

  Climate change is one of the most pressing and challenging issues facing humanity. Global temperatures are rising; heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense; wildfires are burning through vast swathes of forest; ice sheets and glaciers are melting; permafrost is thawing; sea levels are rising; rainfall is becoming more intense and causing increased flooding in some places, yet also becoming more seasonally sporadic and causing increased drought in other places. All the while, the world’s biggest emitters of greenhouse gases have withdrawn from international pledges to curb emissions (USA) and grown their economies through the rapid expansion of fossil fuels (China). This module explores this complex myriad of issues, ranging from the physical scientific basis of climate change to the human response in adapting to and mitigating climate change at the international and individual level. Among the range of hard and soft skills acquired, students will have the opportunity to apply technical climate modelling skills in the production of a report and will also gain experience in communicating complex scientific ideas to a general audience in the production of a portfolio.

  Learning Outcomes

  After completing the module students should be able to:
  1. Develop a knowledge and understanding of how the Earth’s climate has changed since the onset of
  the Industrial Revolution, set within a long-term palaeoclimate context
  2. Explain the factors responsible for contemporary climate change and disentangle these from natural factors responsible for climate change throughout geological time
  3. Develop a knowledge and understanding of climate modelling and critique the reliability of models in
  producing future climate scenarios
  4. Develop a knowledge and understanding of climate adaptation and mitigation, and explore the barriers to their successful implementation
  5. Apply practical skills to acquire future climate scenarios and statistically analyse and interpret their
  impacts
  6. Communicate complex scientific ideas to a range of audiences

  Skills

  General & Employability Skills: Bibliographic searching; referencing of published literature; Critical evaluation of published literature; Abstraction and synthesis of information into coherent written arguments; Ability to communicate complex scientific ideas to a range of audiences; Quantitative data and statistical analysis; Data presentation; Ability to undertake independent learning; Time management
  Subject-specific Skills: Climate Modelling

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY3073

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Spaces of Urbanisation in Emerging Economies and Sustainable Development (20 credits)

  ×

  Spaces of Urbanisation in Emerging Economies and Sustainable Development

  Overview

  This module is designed to encourage you to expand your basic knowledge of the emerging process of regional urban transformation in the Emerging Economies. It explores key theoretical debates associated with urbanisation in the context of development. By exploring the interface between political economy of development and urbanisation, you will be introduced to the problematic of urban sustainable development and its implications for policy analysis in a comparative perspective. The module begins with an introduction to concepts and paradigm shifts, which informed the process of urban development in the developing world. It then broadens out the discussion to incorporate ideas of creative clusters of urban development, urban social policy and poverty questions, sustainable cities, and urban management and policy questions. This module will provide opportunities for you to develop your critical analytical skills in assessing concepts, data and policy issues associated with urbanisation and sustainable development in the Emerging Economies.

  Learning Outcomes

  The module provides an examination of the processes urbanisation and sustainable development in the Emerging Economies within a comparative perspective. It will help to develop an understanding of the key concepts, theoretical approaches, paradigms and policies across a wide spectrum of social sciences disciplines. On completion of this module, you will have attained:
  
  1) A working knowledge about the diverse theories of urbanisation to evaluate and analyse critically the issues pertaining to urbanisation in the Emerging Economies.
  2) Ability to read a wide range of materials on cities in the Emerging Economies from a critical multi-disciplinary perspective.
  3) Familiarisation with key concepts on urbanisation and sustainability
  4) An appreciation of the links between the spatial, social and cultural contexts, which effect urban development in the Emerging Economies.
  5) Ability to evaluate policy questions associated with urban management in the Emerging Economies
  6) Undertake bibliographic searches of a wide range of both academic and specialist materials.
  7) To engage in group-based workshops and to construct and deliver sustained reasoned arguments on urbanisation and sustainable development.

  Skills

  Taught Skills: An analytical and critical reasoning skills and to contextualise knowledge in varying geographical spaces, both within a local and global contexts. It also includes advanced word processing and technical application of bibliographic guidelines and graphic presentation of data and ideas.
  
  Practised Skills: Bibliographic searches, to assimilate and present a coherent appraisal of the various document relating to urban sustainability in a developmental context. Retrieval, interpretative skills, critical reasoning, essay writing based on a sustained level of argumentation and evaluation, oral presentation, time management, group work in workshops.
  
  Assessed Skills: Essay writing, analytical reasoning, group-based workshops, and oral presentations.

  Coursework

  60%

  Examination

  40%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY3063

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Geography, Science and Society (20 credits)

  ×

  Geography, Science and Society

  Overview

  This course explores the relations between geography, science and society in historical context. It provides an overview of the development of geographical knowledge in the nineteenth and early-twentieth centuries and introduces ways of thinking geographically about the production and reception of scientific ideas. Among the episodes examined are: the discovery of the ice age; Darwin and evolution; the emergence of climate science; the Challenger expedition; the Great Trigonometrical Survey of India; and the birth of 'scientific geography'. As well as outlining key scientific developments, we will consider how each episode sparked social, cultural and political debates that continue into our own time.

  Learning Outcomes

  This module should enable students to: 1. think geographically and critically about the nature and practice of science; 2. assess the different ways in which the history of science and of geography can be approached; 3. appreciate the complicated and sometimes fraught relations between different forms of geographical and scientific knowing.

  Skills

  Intellectual skills: critical evaluation of the history of geographical inquiry; linking and assessing different forms of geographical knowledge and practice; awareness of reciprocal relations between science, society and space. Subject-specific skills: use of primary source material (written and non-written); application of geographical methods to historical problems. Generic skills: independent learning; analytical thinking; imaginative insight; identifying, retrieving, sorting and presenting material (in writing and orally); bibliographic skills.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY3066

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Geographical Independent Research Essay (20 credits)

  ×

  Geographical Independent Research Essay

  Overview

  This module requires students to write a final report that is based on individual research on a geographical topic of the student’s choice. The research project presents the evolution of the student’s thoughts and research activity on a specific topic, informed by geographical concepts and ideas. This module draws upon subject-specific knowledge and key skills from other modules offered in the School, applying these skills and knowledge to an independent piece of geographical research.

  Learning Outcomes

  - Understanding of the importance of research, including its limitations
  - A detailed understanding of research methods and sampling
  - Experience of writing at length
  - Extensive subject-specific knowledge in an area of geographical research
  - Knowledge of how to structure and plan an independent research project, including the formulation of a research topic, definition of research aims and objectives
  - Understanding how to contextualise a topic through conducting bibliographic searches and formulating a critical understanding of related literature across disciplines
  - Understanding how to assimilate and present a coherent appraisal of primary and secondary sources

  Skills

  Skills (cognitive, subject-specific, transferrable)
  - Critical, analytical & creative thinking and problem solving skills (c, t)
  - Written communication skills (c,t)
  - Primary research skills, including qualitative and/or quantitative research skills (c, s, t)
  - Collaborative, planning and organisational skills (c, t)
  - Fieldwork skills (s, t)
  - Judgement of ethics and risk (t)
  - Managing and prioritising knowledge (c, t)
  - Reflecting critically on one’s progress (c, t)

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY3083

  Teaching Period

  Both

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  Yes

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Advanced Geographical Information Systems (20 credits)

  ×

  Advanced Geographical Information Systems

  Overview

  This module introduces the principles of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Science. Theoretical knowledge will be developed through lectures and reading while understanding of these concepts will be enhanced through the practical exercises. The practical sessions will be conducted using the ArcGIS software.

  Learning Outcomes

  Students who complete the module should: gain a sound understanding of the principles of GIS; gain the capability to apply a GIS package and apply knowledge to use other packages; develop the ability to understand and critically assess applications of GIS.

  Skills

  (T: taught; P: practiced; A: assessed)
  Enhanced ability to use computers effectively in spatial data input, analysis and presentation (T,P,A).

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY3060

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Geoforensics (20 credits)

  ×

  Geoforensics

  Overview

  The module covers the application of geoscience to criminal investigations. The range of geoscience disciplines will range from the macro- to the micro and will all centre on physical geography.

  Learning Outcomes

  Application of new and routine geoscience techniques to aspects of geography that the students will not have encountered before. They will thus gain an understanding of the importance of precise field recording and multi-disciplinary approaches to problem-solving. Upon completion of the module, the successful student will be able to: Understand the range of geoscience techniques applied to criminal, humanitarian and environmental legal investigations. Argue for the appropriate use of techniques in different (macro to micro, environment-specific) investigations. Stand by their decisions and results in a legal framework: to have notes examined, their observations questioned and their arguments countered. Provide evidence of the historical and scientific background to their arguments. Present their Geoforensic skills in both a technical, detailed manner and transpose this to an easy to understand synopsis, such as presented to a jury.

  Skills

  Subject Specific Skills\T,P,A Landscape interpretation, T. remote sensing, T. geophysics, T, P, A best practice in note-taking and recording. Cognitive Skills\ P, A Generating arguments based on hard data, presented in support of succinct arguments. P, A. Questioning assumptions. Transferable Skills\ P. Debating (including legal issues), T, P, A. precise recording for auditing, assessing, stock-taking. T, P, A Landscape interpretation for planning.

  Coursework

  50%

  Examination

  50%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY3049

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Environmental Geopolitics (20 credits)

  ×

  Environmental Geopolitics

  Overview

  Since the end of the Cold War, environmental issues have become one of the most important considerations in global politics. While geopolitics has been largely defined by territorial matters, geopolitics is increasingly concerned with humanity’s geological changes, what has been termed the Anthropocene. We are now determining our own geological futures, inextricably embedded with nature which requires new spatial categories and political thinking. The student will be introduced to the debates around global environmental change in geography and cognate disciplines of International Relations and environmental politics with a keen interest in the spatial dynamics at play. This course will review the conceptual and contemporary theoretically driven case studies related to environmental politics at the local, national, regional, and international scales of geopolitics. In this module, we will explore the relationship between environmental changes and conflict; global governance and international environmental agreements; capitalism and climate change; industrial development and indigenous populations; resource scarcity; relevance of environmental security to national security; and environmental catastrophe related matters such as migration.

  Learning Outcomes

  This module will enable students to:
  
  1) Write and talk fluently about debates in environmental politics;
  2) Think geographically about environmental politics;
  3) Assess theoretical approaches for analyzing environmental security and geopolitics;
  4) Appreciate the complexity of the relations between space, politics, and environment.

  Skills

  Description
  
  
  
  Pre-Requisites
  
  None
  
  Co-Requisites
  
  None
  
  Compulsory Element
  
  None
  
  Course Contents
  
  Since the end of the Cold War, environmental issues have become one of the most important considerations in global politics. While geopolitics has been largely defined by territorial matters, geopolitics is increasingly concerned with humanity’s geological changes, what has been termed the Anthropocene. We are now determining our own geological futures, inextricably embedded with nature which requires new spatial categories and political thinking. The student will be introduced to the debates around global environmental change in geography and cognate disciplines of International Relations and environmental politics with a keen interest in the spatial dynamics at play. This course will review the conceptual and contemporary theoretically driven case studies related to environmental politics at the local, national, regional, and international scales of geopolitics. In this module, we will explore the relationship between environmental changes and conflict; global governance and international environmental agreements; capitalism and climate change; industrial development and indigenous populations; resource scarcity; relevance of environmental security to national security; and environmental catastrophe related matters such as migration.
  
  Supplementary Notes
  
  None
  
  Learning Outcomes
  
  This module will enable students to:
  
  1) Write and talk fluently about debates in environmental politics;
  2) Think geographically about environmental politics;
  3) Assess theoretical approaches for analyzing environmental security and geopolitics;
  4) Appreciate the complexity of the relations between space, politics, and environment.
  
  Skills
  
  On successful completion, students will have acquired the ability to:
  
  Subject-specific:
  1) Appreciate the spatial dimensions of environmental security/politics (T taught; P practiced; A assessed);
  2) Apply geographical thinking to understanding and potentially resolving environmental conflicts, practices, and perceptions (T; P; A);
  3) Gain acquaintance with key thinkers and major concepts that relate to environmental geopolitics (T; P; A);
  4) Understand key moments and places in the history of global environmental change (T; P; A);
  
  Cognitive:
  1) Carry out independent research (P; A);
  2) Think analytically and synoptically (P; A);
  3) Appraise and imaginatively reconstruct a range of arguments (P; A);
  4) Offer and receive academic criticism in a constructive way (P; A)
  
  Transferable:
  1) Construct a logical and effective written argument (P; A);
  2) Speak clearly and persuasively to a group (P);
  3) Read attentively and critically (P; A);
  4) Work independently and to deadlines (P; A);
  5) Retrieve and sift relevant information from books, archives and electronic sources (T; P; A)
  ----------------------------------------------------------------

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  GGY3084

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional