Geography
Introduction
Geography at Canterbury introduces students to the diversity of places, cultures and environments and provides stimulating fieldwork experiences in a variety of settings. This challenging and highly regarded programme (offered within the Department of Geographical and Life Sciences) is concerned with change in the contemporary world and is relevant to understanding current issues and problems.
Geography can be studied as either:
This is the closest British Geography Department to the European mainland. We are therefore well placed to monitor economic, social and environmental issues in the Nord-Pas de Calais, as well as South East England, and to use this to inform learning and teaching in the degree programme.
Our geography graduates will have developed expertise in gathering, analysing and evaluating data and presenting findings. These are useful skills and abilities sought by employers and are an excellent preparation for a wide variety of careers|.
By the end of the programme students are able to: understand interrelationships between societies and environments; and explore policy questions relating to such issues as environmental management, social welfare and economic development. They will be able to collect, process and analyse data in the study of physical and social phenomena; and apply a range of statistical, graphical and cartographical skills to the analysis and presentation of geographical information. The degree will help them to develop good research habits leading to the production of a well planned, methodologically sound and carefully written study.
A keen interest is taken in student welfare and staff are regularly available for academic and personal advice. 'GeogSoc', the Geographical Society, is a student society, supported by staff, which plans social events and trips that complement the academic programme, and help to ensure that newcomers are warmly welcomed in the Department.
Studying Geography at Christ Church
Specialised teaching facilities assist your study and include a well-resourced computer laboratory with excellent technical support and a well-equipped resource centre. There is hardware and software to teach Geographical Information Systems (GIS) as part of core courses and as specialist options. GIS is supported by international research into the application of GIS to resource management. We make use of multi-media lecture theatres and enjoy the benefit of a wide range of student support services.
Other factors that have influenced the planning of the programme include the range of staff expertise available; the need to respond to developments within the subject; our geographical location, particularly in relation to our proximity to mainland Europe; and the need to cater for students with diverse educational backgrounds.
Teaching is by lectures, field visits, seminars, workshops and tutorials. There is a strong practical element throughout the degree that aims to foster personal development and independent learning.
There is a strong tradition of fieldwork both within the region and abroad. In the first year students experience a series of one-day field visits. This experience serves as a basis for residential fieldwork in Malta in the second year, where students undertake field projects on land use change, social change in Maltese villages, geomorphology, tourism studies, and urban planning and regeneration.
The Department places a strong emphasis on teaching as well as research and following an assessment by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE), the Department's geography teaching was rated as 'excellent'. The report noted in particular:
'A friendly, caring environment for student learning with excellent staff student relationships based on mutual respect and trust.'
'Excellent relationships between the staff of the Department and a comparatively large number of outside organisations.'
'The high quality of teaching and learning observed.'
'A commitment to provide students of all abilities with a stimulating environment.'
'The high quality of feedback on student work.'
'Excellent provision of IT support.'
This overview has been supported by a recent internal review of the Department. This praised the good working relationship between students and tutors and the quality of the academic support provided by staff.
Study Geography in Canada
The single honours Geography programme offers Level 2 students an exciting opportunity to study Geography at the University of Lethbridge, Alberta. Two to three students a year may participate in this exchange programme. Click here for more information|.