Geography with Applied GIS (with Professional Placement) BSc
Streatham Campus, United Kingdom
Bachelor of Science in Geography with Applied GIS (with Professional Placement)
University of Exeter
Geography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Program Overview: BSc Geography with Applied GIS (with Professional Placement)
The BSc Geography with Applied GIS (with Professional Placement) at the University of Exeter offers you a comprehensive grounding in physical geography combined with a sought-after specialism in Geographic Information Systems. You will gain knowledge and hands-on experience of how mapping and analytics are accelerating our understanding of big data, empowering digital transformation, and being applied across business, government, science, and leisure sectors.
This four-year program includes a dedicated professional placement year, during which you spend your third year working with an organisation relevant to your degree. Students have previously completed placements with employers such as the UK Hydrographic Office, Ernst and Young, and wildlife conservation charities in Kenya, gaining experience both in the UK and internationally.
You will develop skills in statistical analysis, coding for data analysis, geospatial investigation and mapping using GIS, image analysis of earth observation data, and field-based data collection. Training is provided on industry-standard software packages for spatial data analysis, equipping you with skills valued across all employment sectors.
Key Program Highlights
- Ranked 40th in the world for Geography in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2025
- Full-year professional placement with employers in the UK and internationally, contributing to your final degree classification
- Hands-on training with industry-standard GIS software and spatial data analysis tools
- Part of a Russell Group university that received Triple Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework 2023
Curriculum and Modules
The curriculum is structured across four years, with the first year providing a broad introduction to physical geography and core academic skills. From your second year, you specialise in applied GIS and remote sensing, while the third year is dedicated to your professional placement. Your final year focuses on advanced modules and a research-led dissertation incorporating GIS analysis.
Introduction to Physical Geography
30 creditsA foundational module covering wide-ranging research areas in physical geography, including climate systems, geomorphology, and biogeography, along with core academic and field skills.
Applied GIS and Spatial Data Analysis
15 creditsDevelop theoretical and practical skills to capture, manage, manipulate, analyse, and present geographically-referenced data using industry-standard GIS software.
Remote Sensing and Earth Observation
15 creditsLearn to analyse satellite and aerial imagery for environmental monitoring, land use classification, and spatial pattern detection using cutting-edge remote sensing techniques.
Research Methods in Geography
15 creditsBuild essential research skills including statistical analysis, coding for data analysis, and field data collection methods to prepare for your final-year dissertation.
Professional Placement Year
120 creditsA full-year work placement with a relevant organisation, supported by a programme director. You apply knowledge from your first two years, develop transferable skills, and enhance your employability.
GIS Dissertation
30 creditsA research-led dissertation that must incorporate GIS analysis, supervised by an expert in your chosen area of physical geography. The project proposal must be approved by the programme director.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
Entry to the BSc Geography with Applied GIS (with Professional Placement) is competitive. To be considered, you should meet the academic and language requirements outlined below. All applications and inquiries are handled through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- A-LevelsAAB-ABB, including a Science subject at Grade B (General Studies excluded)
- International Baccalaureate36-34 overall, or 666-665 in three Higher Level subjects with HL Grade 5 in a Science
- BTEC Extended DiplomaDDD-DDM, with a GCE A-level grade B in a Science subject also required
- Access to HE DiplomaPass with 30 L3 credits at Distinction and 15 L3 credits at Merit, including 12 L3 credits at Merit in a Science subject
- GCSE RequirementsEnglish Language at minimum Grade C or Grade 4
English Language Requirements
- IELTS Academic6.0 overall with no less than 6.0 in any section
- TOEFL iBTOverall score of 87 with minimum 21 in writing, listening, reading, and speaking
- Pearson PTE Academic64 overall with no less than 64 in all communicative skills
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Exeter has more than GBP 7 million in scholarships available for international fee-paying students. Several scholarship opportunities are relevant to undergraduate applicants on this program. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligibility and application procedures.
Exeter Excellence Scholarship (Undergraduate)
Up to GBP 5,000 per year (tuition fee reduction)Available to international undergraduate students demonstrating outstanding academic achievement, typically AAB at A-level or equivalent. Requires a separate application and recognises academic ambition, career goals, and social responsibility.
Global Excellence Scholarship
GBP 5,000 to GBP 10,000 (tuition fee reduction)Designed to support talented international students from around the world. Awards are based on academic merit, future career ambitions, and willingness to engage with the Exeter community. Open to applicants from all countries.
Beacon Scholarship
Full funding (tuition, living costs, and travel)Offered in partnership with the Beacon Equity Trust for students with leadership potential from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, and South Africa. Candidates must be nominated by their School Head and hold an offer of admission.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of Geography with Applied GIS are highly employable, combining geographical expertise with technical GIS and data analysis skills that are in demand across public, private, and third sectors. The professional placement year provides invaluable work experience and industry contacts before graduation. Exeter graduates are ranked among the top 10 most targeted by the UK's leading employers.
Potential Career Roles
Example Employers of Graduates
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Exeter is a prestigious Russell Group institution consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK and globally. Its Geography department is particularly well-regarded, placing in the top 50 worldwide for the subject. The university also received Triple Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework 2023.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Geography | QS World Subject Rankings | #38 |
| Geography and Environmental Science | Complete University Guide (UK) | #14 |
| Environmental Sciences | QS World Subject Rankings | Top 40 |
| Earth and Marine Sciences | QS World Subject Rankings | Top 50 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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