Given the pace at which our planet and society is changing, there has never been a more important time to study geography and economics. Geographers study the most pressing social and environmental challenges of our time, whilst economists seek to understand how to maximise our use of limited global resources. By studying both areas, you will learn to address the global challenges that underpin our efforts for a just and sustainable future.

Develop the skills and knowledge needed to help you advance professionally in a range of sectors, including but not limited to energy, food and agriculture, construction and housing, hazard mitigation, environmental consultancy, local and national government, urban planning and landscape architecture, geospatial analysis, and emergency planning. Explore the full range of human and environmental issues tackled by modern geographers, with an emphasis on human society and the impacts these systems have in the modern world.

With our four-year BA Hons Geography and Economics (Placement Year) degree you will begin by developing a fundamental understanding of both disciplines. You will undertake a range of modules that will introduce you to key themes in geography, bridging both the human and physical elements. Your modules in economics will introduce you to micro- and macro-economics and how to communicate data.

In Year 2, you will build upon the principles explored in Year 1 and undertake practical work to gain analytical and research project skills, including developing familiarity with geoinformatics. There will be the opportunity to tailor your interests through a range of optional modules, some of which cover topics such as cultural, developmental, and economic geography.

As you progress into Year 3, you will complete further optional modules in advanced topics such as global consumption, urban infrastructure, environmental economics, and geographies of health, alongside embarking on national and international residential field trips.

With our location near major urban centres, rivers, coasts, and the Lake District World Heritage Site, you will be able to explore beyond the campus and gain hands-on experience through field work. You will also have the option to expand your perspective, including trips overseas such as Switzerland, where you will see your learning brought to life.

In Year 3, you will undertake a placement that will enable you to apply the knowledge and skills learnt so far and gain invaluable experience that will then inform your studies in Year 4 and your career beyond.

Although it’s up to you to find your placement, we will support you all the way. Our Careers Service will provide guidance on CVs, applications, interview techniques and creating a digital profile.

In addition to subject knowledge and field experience, you will gain essential communication and geographic information systems skills. You will become familiar with data generation through qualitative techniques, as well as data handling, environmental sampling, and analysis. With a year’s experience added to your CV, you will be a standout graduate.

• The Lancaster Environment Centre is one of the most popular spaces for Geography students on campus, where you will be surrounded by active researchers shaping current thinking, outstanding practical facilities, and even our own weather monitoring station. You will be assigned an academic tutor at the beginning of your degree, meaning there’s always someone nearby to give you support
• The theme of sustainability is woven throughout the degree and life on campus. Many students are part of LUSU Green, a group run by the Students’ Union that is driving change across the campus and beyond to create a thriving natural environment, reduce carbon emissions, and train the sustainability leaders of the future.
• Our degree programme focuses on helping you prepare for your future career, with modules that prioritise the development of essential skills and opportunities to undertake enriching hands-on experience in real-world environments. You will graduate ready to enter a number of thriving industries in an increasingly environmentally conscious market