Entry requirementsYou will normally have a first degree with first or upper-second class honours in physical geography or a related discipline. We actively encourage applications from those of you who have developed an interest in any aspect of physical geography or related environmental sciences at undergraduate level, and/or who have relevant work experience.
Academic titleMSc Physical Geography by Research
Course descriptionMSc
One year full-time, two years part-time
Programme description
This programme provides you with an opportunity to investigate in detail and to research a topic of interest to you within physical geography. Unlike most taught MScs you design much of your programme of work with assistance from your supervisor and the programme convenor. You also receive training in key research methods and techniques used within physical geography and environmental science, and explore the main
research approaches used by physical geographers and the debates on these approaches.
Programme outline
All modules are compulsory. However, the content of the modules is tailored to your needs and you play a key role in the design of your project.
Physical Geography Research and Practice
Worth 30 credits, this module introduces you to the different research approaches used in physical geography such as manipulative experimentation and hypothesis testing.
Environmental Modelling
Worth 15 credits, this module shows how environmental models can be used to improve our understanding of natural and human-modified environments. A background in maths is not needed.
Project-Specific Research Training
Worth 15 credits, the details of this module are finalised between you and your supervisor; the aim is to provide you with the research skills you need for the successful completion of your Independent Research Project.
Independent Research Project
Worth120 credits, this project forms the core of the MSc and is on a topic decided between you and your supervisor; importantly, you are given the opportunity to explore an area in physical geography of most interest to you. The exact research questions that you seek to answer and the approach you use in addressing them are expected to be of research standard.
Assessment
All of your modules are examined via coursework; there are no exams. You are required to do a presentation as part of Physical Geography Research and Practice. An external academic will be the principal examiner of your Independent Research Project and may choose to conduct the examination as a viva voce.