Teaching & Modules
Teaching methods - what to expect
We use a combination of lectures, seminars and tutorials together with workshops, laboratory sessions and field trips to teach a very wide range of modules covering all areas of Geography. You will learn to analyse a variety of data types and process, synthesise and discuss what you have learned in small groups and one-to-one sessions with academic staff. Combinations of one-term and two-term modules are available with a greater emphasis on optional modules as you progress through the degree.
You are expected to spend approximately 150 hours of work (ie about 10 hours per credit) for each 15 credit module you attend in your degree. These 150 hours cover every aspect of the module: lectures, seminars, tutorials, field trips, independent study based on lecture notes, tutorial preparation, coursework preparation and submission, examination revision and preparation, and examinations.
In the first year you will have an average of 28.5 hours in scheduled learning and teaching activities per 15 credit module. There is an average of 27 hours in scheduled learning and teaching activities per 15 credit module in the second year, and an average of 17 hours per 15 credit module in the final year.
The study times are typical and give you a good indication of what to expect. However, they are subject to change.
You will take 120 credits each year. Typically, one credit equates to 10 hours of work.
Assessment
- Coursework
- Written examinations
- Practical Examinations
Your performance will be assessed through a combination of coursework and written/practical examinations. Forms of assessment may typically include essays, field reports, written examinations, oral presentations, practical worksheets, posters and the Independent Geographical Study (dissertation). The nature of assessment varies by module.
Modules
Year
Courses are divided into modules. You will normally take modules totaling 360 credits. Each year you will normally take modules totaling 120 credits, comprising of 15 and 30 credit modules. The study includes an initial set range of modules in the first year, followed by the opportunity to concentrate on a chosen thematic area of study. In the final year, you will undertake an independent Geographical research project, for which you will receive individual tutorial support from an expert in the field.
At King’s, all students on a taught programme are allocated a personal tutor who will play a key role in helping you to get the most out of your studies, providing support and encouragement for your time at university. Personal tutors provide you with the opportunity to periodically take stock of your learning, academic progress and general wellbeing as you progress through your studies, offering guidance on how to seek further support if you need it, and how to access the range of opportunities available to you as a King's student.
Required modules
You are required to take the following modules:
- The Changing Natural Environment I (15 credits)
- Geographical Foundations I: the making of the modern world (15 credits)
- The Changing Natural Environment II (15 credits)
- Principles of Geographical Inquiry (30 credits)
- Geography in Action (15 credits)
- Geography Tutorials: Critical Thinking & Techniques (30 credits)
Please note that the Geography Tutorials module includes intensive teaching on a domestic residential fieldtrip.
Optional modules
There are no optional modules for Year 1.
Key Information
Course type:
Single honours
Delivery mode:
In person
Study mode:
Full time
Required A-Levels:
AAB
Duration:
Three years
Application status:
Open
Start date:
September 2026
Application deadline:
10 September 2025