BA (Hons) Human Geography Bachelor's degree at York St John University
BA (Hons) Human Geography at York St John University. You'll explore how geography influences, and is influenced by, human activity across societies.
About this course
Investigate the social, economic, cultural and political processes that shape our profoundly connected world. From the provider’s course page.
BA (Hons) Human Geography is a Bachelor's degree (BA (Hons)) at York St John University, based in YSJ Main Campus. It is studied part-time; duration varies by route.
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Sociology & Social Sciences, see the sections below.
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Year 1 5 modules
- Discover the breadth of human geography at university level, as you are introduced to contemporary issues and debatesCompulsory20 credits
Module details
Using examples and case studies from local, regional, national and global scales. These themes are likely to include: Globalisation Social justice and inequalities Sustainability Mobility Landscape spaces. You will also develop your skills in academic writing, referencing and critical thinking.
- Physical geography and geoscience - Earth systemsCompulsory20 credits
Module details
Focus on the essential concepts for understanding physical geography and geoscience. You will explore the Earth systems ranging from global atmospheric circulation and ocean systems to Earth surface processes and ecosystems, looking at how we understand patterns in the natural environment. Practical work will include field and/or laboratory work.
- Environmental changing and data analysisCompulsory20 credits
Module details
Investigate aspects of environmental changing as you develop your understanding of how to handle, process and analyse numerical data. Through a series of workshops we will introduce you to the theory behind data handling and statistical analysis, before developing your skills using software such as Microsoft Excel and IBM's SPSS Statistics which are both widely used in industry. These skills prepare you for your own investigations later in your degree.
- Qualitative methods in geographical researchCompulsory20 credits
Module details
Engage with a range of qualitative methods commonly used in geographical research. Through a series of workshops we will introduce you to the theory behind data handling and statistical analysis. You will also assess the ethical and health and safety considerations at a basic level involved in your study.
- Environmental geographyCompulsory20 credits
Module details
Environmental geography investigates human/nature relations. Through this module you will explore environmental concerns from a variety of perspectives, from society's impact on biological and physical systems such as soil or water, through environmental policies and politics, to environmental values and identities.
Year 2 8 modules
- Space and societyOptional20 credits
Module details
On this module you will examine the relationship between space and society. You will consider how space relates to social identities, as well as how these identities are both expressed in and produce, particular spaces. This includes spaces such as the home, the workplace, public spaces and virtual spaces. There is a focus on difference, inequality and exclusion and their implications within increasingly transnational global contexts.
- LandscapeOptional20 credits
Module details
You will consider how the concept of landscape has changed throughout history, and learn how to read landscapes from different perspectives. You will examine landscape in symbolic and material terms, engaging with debates in visual cultural theory that have shaped the geographical analysis of the past 40 years. You will approach landscapes as expressions of power, identity and economic change.
- Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and geospatial technologiesOptional20 credits
Module details
The development of sophisticated Geographical Information System (GIS) and online mapping tools in recent years has revolutionised the use of geospatial data. This module will develop your theoretical and practical understanding of these technologies and their applications. A central theme is the use of geospatial technologies to address problems and concerns associated with environmental geography. You will gain first hand experience in using the GIS flow line, collecting data, manipulating and
- Research methods and residential field tripCompulsory20 credits
Module details
This module will involve working in small groups to develop research plans and then undertaking the research on a residential field trip. The module provides practical experience in conducting your own research, helping prepare you for your independent dissertation next year. During the module you will also produce a research proposal for your dissertation.
- Professional practiceCompulsory20 credits
Module details
This is an opportunity to experience professional practice related to your degree. This might be a short internship, a period of shadowing a relevant professional, voluntary work in an appropriate setting or a study of a profession, workplace or employer relevant to geography. This will develop new skills and experience that will help you become more employable after you graduate. It will also help you identify areas of personal and professional development you would like to build on to prepare
- Cultural and heritage tourismOptional20 credits
Module details
Cultural and heritage tourism has been growing and evolving fast in the last few decades, introducing new perspectives and opportunities. It encompasses a variety of themes which are significant in the tourism industry, including built heritage, museums and galleries, intangible cultural heritage, World Heritage sites, local and indigenous lifestyles and traditions, natural heritage, digital heritage, arts, food, festivals, music and sports. On this module you will investigate how cultural and h
- Geographical research methodologiesOptional20 credits
Module details
Geography is an extraordinarily diverse discipline. In this module you will learn about the variety of methodological approaches that geographers use in their research, across human, physical and environmental geography. This includes paying attention to the very latest developments, as well as the ethical and political dimensions of producing geographical knowledge. The module prepares you for undertaking your own research later in your degree.
- Environmental challenges of the 21st centuryOptional20 credits
Module details
On this module we will examine some of the key environmental challenges of the 21st century, from local to global scales. Develop your understanding of environmental sustainability and its relation to social and economic sustainability. We will pay particular attention to the barriers to addressing global environmental challenges such as climate change, food, water, waste and pollution. Key themes are action and agency, from global governance through to individual decision making.
Year 3 6 modules
- DissertationCompulsory40 credits
Module details
This year long module will involve working independently to research a topic of your choice. It is the culmination of your degree studies, and your chance to explore a topic you are passionate about. You will build on the research skills you developed earlier in the course, demonstrating your capacity for independent working, autonomy, self reliance and project management. Once your dissertation proposal has been approved and has passed ethical scrutiny you will work under the guidance of a tuto
- Cities and urban spacesOptional20 credits
Module details
This module investigates cities and urban spaces to understand how they are shaped. Key themes of democracy and public participation in urban governance run throughout the module. You will examine cities through a range of perspectives, including economic geography, post-colonialism and sustainability, looking at how urban space is understood and contested at different scales.
- Nature and humansOptional20 credits
Module details
On this module you will examine and expand the idea of nature and its relationship with humans. You will also look at this in relation to a variety of themes, such as: Medicine and health Food production and consumption Animals Wilderness and conservation Climate and the Anthropocene. You will gain a better understanding of the contemporary environmental issues that are arising and the responses to these. Overall, you will gain an understanding of various sustainability issues and the importance
- Residential fieldworkOptional20 credits
Module details
The focus of the module is a period of residential fieldwork, normally overseas. Through this module, you will be required to develop your understanding of the field locality and plan a focal investigation. You will be expected to apply geographical concepts and ideas to the field locality and communicate your findings in a creative manner. Organisation, responsibility and self reliance are all key elements and skills you will demonstrate on this module.
- Creative and literary geographiesOptional20 credits
Module details
This module offers you the opportunity to explore geography's connections with other Humanities disciplines, building on key concepts from human and cultural geography introduced earlier in your degree. You will encounter the subfields of creative geographies and literary geographies, discovering how geographers have contributed to understandings of literature, and how they are using creative practices such as storytelling, poetry, art and performance in their work. The module is an opportunity
- Social justice and sustainabilityOptional20 credits
Module details
You will analyse the connection between social justice and sustainability in relation to climate change mitigation and adaptation on this module. Social action and public participation will be explored in the contexts of: Climate justice Environmental justice Ecological justice. You will also be required to examine a local urban case study, and to reflect on your own, and other's
Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.
Course in depth
What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.
What you'll study
This course examines the social, economic, cultural and political processes shaping our connected world through human geography and social science perspectives. You'll usually begin with foundational concepts in sociology, social problems and policy, and social research methods. Year 2 typically progresses to social theory, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and applied specialism streams. In your final year, you'll explore specialist options such as criminology, social policy, gender and identity, migration and social work routes, whilst engaging with contemporary debates through research-led seminars and completing your own dissertation project. Throughout, the course emphasises both theoretical understanding and practical research skills.
Who it's for
You're suited to this course if you're curious about how people, places and power interact on a global scale. You'll thrive if you enjoy reading widely, thinking critically about social systems, and engaging with real-world problems, from migration and inequality to environmental change and cultural identity. The part-time structure suits those balancing study with work or other commitments. You should be comfortable with both independent research and collaborative learning, and ready to develop professional skills alongside your subject knowledge.
Careers & job market
Across Sociology and Social Sciences nationally, 85% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of completing their degree. Of those working, 55% are in highly skilled roles or pursuing further study. National earnings data shows starting salaries ranging from £23,000 to £30,000 at 15 months; after five years, graduates earn between £24,650 and £34,800. Your specific path will depend on the roles and sectors you pursue; the degree equips you for work in policy, development, research, education, local government and social organisations.
University & format
This BA (Hons) is taught at York St John University, a university located on the YSJ Main Campus, studied part-time in English. York St John is a recognised UK degree-awarding body, so degrees are nationally recognised. The university holds Silver for teaching quality in the Office for Students' TEF 2023. Bursaries and scholarships are also available, check the university's funding pages for details.
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
Part-time application dates vary by provider. UCAS dates
Placement year. Availability, selection and pay can vary.
See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.
Opened 2 July 2026; last choice 19 October 2026. Check vacancies now. A cached page never claims a place is still available.
Entry & how to get in
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Entry is set by the university and based on your offer. Use your predicted grades to see how you compare, then check the university's stated requirements.
How to apply
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.
- 1Register on UCAS Hub
Create your UCAS application and add this course. One application covers up to five choices.
- 2Write your personal statement
A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.
- 3Submit by Apply directly to the provider
Part-time application dates vary by provider. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.
- 4Reply to your offers
When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.
- 5Results day & confirmation
On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.
Fees & funding
What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.
Tuition per year
Provider fee page (England 2026/27 cap where not stated).
Check fees at York St John University →For students who normally live in England
2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.
Starting on or after 1 January 2027?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.
Paying for it
- Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
- Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
- Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
- Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.
England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.
Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for
Named awards published by the university. Compare the eligibility and application route before budgeting for one.
Amounts, exclusions and deadlines can change. An award is not guaranteed unless the university confirms it.
Still deciding what to study?
StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.
Careers & earnings
What Sociology & Social Sciences graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
- 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
- 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in sociology & social sciences · 2–5 yrs
- 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
- 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs
How pay grows: this course vs Sociology & Social Sciences nationally
National figures for Sociology & Social Sciences graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.
Work out your pay
Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.
Job market & outlook
How Sociology & Social Sciences graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.
How AI is changing the work
AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.
What AI takes off your plate
- Routine information gathering
- First-draft writing and summaries
- Standard analysis and admin
- Repetitive processing tasks
More human than ever
- Judgement and original thinking
- Working with and leading people
- Owning and sense-checking AI output
- Ethics and accountability
The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.
Roles & employers
Where Sociology & Social Sciences graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.
Roles graduates go into
Where they work
- Local authorities
- Charities & NGOs
- Research organisations
- Government & universities
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Sociology & Social Sciences graduates.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
York St John University
Social sciences across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around YSJ Main Campus
2,229 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.
Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.
Is Sociology & Social Sciences right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to York St John University from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is £12,100 / year for this course (from the provider’s fee page). You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.
English language
Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.
Student visa
You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
Scholarships & funding
Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check York St John University’s funding pages.
Living costs
Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.
Working while you study
A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.
Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with York St John University and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at York St John University
Sociology & Social Sciences at other universities
Common questions
What are the entry requirements?
What do graduates earn?
What will it cost me?
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