Volunteering Half the World Away
Faye knew she wanted to find placement opportunities abroad. After much hard work and planning, Faye undertook a packed 36 week placement spanning half the globe.
Overview
Natural hazards and the processes associated with the physical environment are some of the most prominent challenges that we face globally. This rewarding course will develop your abilities to analyse and predict future events, as well as manage and mitigate their effects to support communities when they need it most.
Having taught geography for over 40 years, Coventry University is ranked as one of the top 10 best universities in the UK for ‘Geography and Environmental Studies’ in The Guardian University Guide 2020.
The Geography and Natural Hazards BSc (Hons) course applies geographical knowledge to the study of natural hazards, such as volcanoes, earthquakes, tsunamis, tornadoes, wildfires, tropical cyclones and flooding. We aim to give you an in-depth understanding of the processes responsible for these hazards, which affect millions of people each year. We cover the key principles of geophysics, geology, geomorphology, hydrology and climatology and how to map, analyse and potentially predict natural hazards, so that you may help communities prepare for and respond to their impact.
Why Coventry University?
An award-winning university, we are committed to providing our students with the best possible experience. We continue to invest in both our facilities and our innovative approach to education. Our students benefit from industry-relevant teaching, and resources and support designed to help them succeed. These range from our modern library and computing facilities to dedicated careers advice and our impressive Students’ Union activities.
To ensure an optimised and continual student experience, the university may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via emerging online technologies and methods across all courses.
Global ready
An international outlook, with global opportunitiesEmployability
Career-ready graduates, with the skills to succeedTeaching Excellence
Taught by lecturers who are experts in their fieldCourse essentials
A degree which offers you more, at no extra costMembership
Royal Geographical Society (RGS)
Students receive student membership to the Royal Geographical Society for the duration of their degree.
Our Facilities
Geotechnics Laboratory
Contains triaxial cells, direct shear box apparatus, a dimensional compression oedometer, California Bearing Ratio apparatus, soil classification equipment and Marshall test apparatus for asphalt mixes.
Informal Study Areas
Informal computer access to all the specialist software required for their students during their. There are bookable spaces where students can meet with academics or work in small groups.
Simulation Centre
Our interactive training centre is used to create a ‘virtual’ construction site with fully-equipped site cabins and observation deck. Students undertake role play exercises to help prepare them for situations in the workplace.
What our alumni say
The geography and natural hazards degree at Coventry university is a unique offer and I doubt I would have found the same academic experience elsewhere.
Course information
All of our geography degrees are designed to develop your specialist knowledge of the physical and human environment. Throughout this course, you will be supported to develop your analytical and problem-solving skills, with appropriate training in how to conduct robust independent research in the laboratory and/or field within the broad area of geographical and geoscientific enquiry.
In your first year, you will touch upon topics covered in our other two geography degrees (BA and BSc), while also studying bespoke geography and natural hazards modules. The second and third years will then become more specialised, allowing you to study the processes associated with natural hazards as well as optional modules that will allow you to develop specialist knowledge in topics such as contemporary environmental change, Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing.
All of our geography degrees encompass significant amounts of field trips*, both here in the UK and overseas*, with recent trips visiting locations such as Sicily, Mallorca, Morocco and Tenerife We also have an excellent track record of supporting professional training, which is a popular option between your second and third year. Recent students have spent their optional sandwich year* with local authorities, national/international agencies, environmental consultancies and research institutes.
*Please note that we are unable to guarantee any trip, placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
Course specification
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Modules
We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.
10th
Our geography and environmental studies courses are ranked 10th in the UK by the Guardian University Guide 2020.
In more detail...
We are recognised nationally for the excellence and quality of our geography teaching, ranked as one of the top 10 best universities in the UK for ‘Geography and Environmental Studies’ in The Guardian University Guide 2020.
The Geography and Natural Hazards BSc (Hons) course takes an integrated and practical ‘geographical’ approach to the study of natural hazards at a local and global scale. You will have the opportunity to learn how to apply the latest techniques for hazard assessment and mitigation with opportunities for hands-on experience, both in the field and within our modern GIS laboratory, which feature industry-standard software like ArcGIS and ENVI.
Our current team of academics are active researchers currently benefitting from strong academic links with universities in Hawaii, Alaska, Rio de Janeiro and China. Our staff regularly incorporate their findings into their teaching practice to ensure content stays up-to-date and relevant. Recently, for example, Coventry academics have undertaken volcanic research in Hawaii and this data is now used in modules focusing on Remote Sensing.
All of our geography courses have a strong focus on your future employability. They are designed to equip you with core knowledge, skills and expertise within the broad field of geography, together with a range of analytical abilities and transferrable professional skills to find employment on graduation.
Throughout your studies, you will have the opportunity to undertake field trips locally, nationally and internationally* to build up your experience of geography and natural hazards. In the first year, all students take part in a three-day residential field trip*, followed in the second year and final years by international field trips*. In the past, for example, students have visited Sicily and the Etna Volcano, to examine the hazards posed to residents and visitors and to see, often for the first time, an active volcano.
To augment field trip experiences, our students will be taught in the Simulation Centre, which is the most advanced interactive people training and development centre in the UK. Its cutting-edge technology which is unique in the UK, its Learning Curve interactive screen and real-life scenarios using specially-trained actors, not only to improve skills but to also help develop new ways of working in otherwise inaccessible environments.
*Please note that we are unable to guarantee any trip, placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
- Research expertise in volcanic remote sensing, climate change and flooding
- Coventry is ranked 10th in the UK for ‘Geography and Environmental Studies’ in The Guardian University Guide 2020
- Diverse range of optional modules allowing you to tailor your degree to suit your interests with topics such as climate change, GIS and Remote Sensing and savage earth
- Opportunities to gain experience through professional training and international field experience*
*Please note that we are unable to guarantee any trip, placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
Your main study themes are:
- Earth and environmental systems: Understanding the functioning of the systems that drive the physical environment.
- Natural hazards and their management: Understanding the physical causes of hazard events and what society can do to mitigate their effects.
- Scientific techniques for environmental research: Gaining experience in studying the environment and learning that by understanding it better, we can mitigate the hazards posed.
- Career management and employment skills: An insight into the skills required for geography-related careers and how these skills are truly transferable.
The programme can be studied full-time over three years with the option of extending this to four years by taking an optional sandwich year in the form of a professional placement or study abroad between Year 2 and Year 3*. In their sandwich year, former students have chosen to study geology and natural hazards in Iceland and environmental change in Sweden, where classes are taught in English. Those undertaking a placement have previously worked in local authorities, environmental consultancies, taught practical skills in field study centres and worked at volcano observatories.
We have a wide range of teaching methods which are an established feature of all of our geography courses. For example, you will have the opportunity to participate in computer workshops to undertake data analysis using bespoke specialist software, such as ArcGIS and ENVI. You will also have the opportunity to use our specialist facilities including a geotechnics laboratory, where students will learn the influences of geology on structural integrity, and our Simulation Centre to experience the aftermath of a disaster.
Our mandatory field trips*, which take place in each year, provide an opportunity to contextualise classroom-based learning and develop practical skills through real-life application. In addition to the residential field trips, you will have opportunities to undertake a range of mandatory day trips to gain practical experience and apply your knowledge.*
You will be taught by experienced, qualified teaching staff who bring professional and research expertise into their teaching. Our staff members are active researchers in topics ranging from climate change, volcanic remote sensing and flooding to coastal geomorphology, global development and environmental pollution. In addition, you will have a personal tutor who will review and discuss your progress with you and be available for advice throughout your course.
Teaching methods include: lectures, seminars, tutorials, field trips, simulations, practical workshops and laboratory exercises.
*Please note that we are unable to guarantee any trip, placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
Meet our staff
Matthew Blackett
Matthew Blackett is a senior lecturer and researcher, focussing on environmental change management, natural hazards and natural disasters.
Read full profileThis course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module. Assessment methods include reports, essays, practicals, presentations, posters, formal examinations, tests, timed exercises, posters, and project work.
The Coventry University Assessment Strategy endeavours to ensure that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.
On successful completion, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the nature, practical value and application of geography and the earth sciences.
- Recognise key concepts, methods and techniques in relation to spatial and temporal geographical problems, variations in the human and physical environments and the effect of contemporary environmental issues.
- Demonstrate a detailed understanding of natural hazards and application of knowledge to mitigate and manage their effects.
- Plan, design and execute a piece of independent research or enquiry using appropriate methods and strategies for acquiring, interpreting and analysing information.
- Conduct field and laboratory work together with data collection and associated investigative and analytical skills.
- Recognise the moral and ethical issues involved in debates and inquiries.
- Think critically and analytically about the world around you.
- Demonstrate an awareness of how skills and training can be applied to work of a geographical nature.
- Observe, contextualise and analyse information through field and laboratory studies (including computational).
- Demonstrate a range of transferable professional skills including: intellectual and problem-solving skills; effective team work; initiative and responsibility for your own learning and development; self-reflection; time management and personal organisation, and excellent communication skills.
Actual teaching contact hours will vary depending on the level of study and the requirements of a particular semester. In a typical week your contact hours will be divided amongst personal tutorials and small group teaching; medium group teaching (e.g. seminars, tutorial sessions, lab sessions and workshops); and large group teaching (lectures). In addition, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study each week depending on the demands of individual modules. The number of contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 13-14 contact hours per week.
Geography is a global subject and international themes are core to our teaching. While the UK experiences natural hazards such as flooding, it rarely experiences some of the more destructive events, such as earthquakes, tsunamis and severe storms. As such, much of our teaching relies on using case studies from overseas, such as the tsunamis that regularly impact the Pacific region and hurricanes which often hit the Caribbean.
All students are offered the opportunity to complete an overseas field trip as part of their studies*. For example, past students have visited Sicily and Tenerife, where they examined the natural hazards posed by an active volcano, and to understand the measures that can be taken to address these. In all cases, the field trips are designed to enable you to see first-hand how particular natural hazards pose a significant threat in different environments, enabling you to apply your specialist research skills in an international context.
You can also take the opportunity to work or study abroad*. Past students have spent time working at the volcano observatories in Alaska, Hawaii and Mexico; others have undertaken placements with GNS in New Zealand and with the United States Geological Survey in California. Others have gone to study at one of our associate universities teaching in English throughout Europe, America and the Far East. The Geology and Natural Hazards programme at the University of Reykjavik in Iceland has proved popular.
* Please note that we are unable to guarantee any trip, placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
Global ready
Did you know we help more students travel internationally than any other UK university according to data from the experts in higher education data and analysis, HESA?
In 2018/19, we were able to provide a total of 5,469 experiences abroad that lasted at least five days.
Much of this travel is made possible through our Global Leaders Programme, which enables students to prepare for the challenges of the global employment market, as well as strengthening and developing their broader personal and professional skills.
Explore our international experiences1st for
international experiences
Sending more students overseas than any other UK uni 2016/17
5,469
Student experiences
The number of student trips abroad for at least 5 days in 2018/19
12,000
and counting
The number of students we’ve helped travel internationally since 2016
12
global programmes
As well as trips, we offer other opportunities like language courses
What our alumni say
The content taught was so engaging and honestly made me more passionate about geography! I cannot recommend Coventry University enough – the support, both academic and career based, was outstanding and I feel very lucky to have studied in an environment that not only pushed me to achieve my academic potential, but always considered helping me to achieve my future goals.
Entry Requirements
What our alumni say
The course has a good range of coursework presentations, essays, reports and even book reviews and poster making! The highlight of studying a geography based degree has to be the field trips.
Tuition Fees
We pride ourselves on offering competitive tuition fees which we review on an annual basis and offer a wide range of scholarships to support students with their studies. Course fees are calculated on the basis of what it costs to teach each course and we aim for total financial transparency.
For more information, please visit our Finance pages.
Course essentials at no extra cost
We're committed to communicating study costs clearly to make sure you're not faced with having to make any unexpected payments.
This is why our ‘Flying Start’ package provides you with a few course essentials. Your full-time fee for an undergraduate degree will cover the following:
UK field trips
Any mandatory site visits and trips within the United Kingdom.Key material
This can include core textbooks, software and equipment.Laser prints
1,000 A4 sides of black and white laser printing credits per year.Optional year
Pay no tuition fees for optional work placements or study abroad trips.Course essentials – additional costs
- This course may incur additional costs associated with any field trips, placements or work experience, study abroad opportunities or any other opportunity (whether required or optional), which could include (but is not limited to) travel, accommodation, activities and visas.
- This course may incur additional costs associated with any equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire.
- Students are also expected to be equipped with appropriate fieldwork clothing and footwear.
EU student fees
EU nationals starting in the 2020/21 academic year remain eligible for the same fees as home students and the same financial support. Financial support comes from Student Finance England, and covers undergraduate and postgraduate study for the duration of their course, providing they meet the residency requirement.
For tuition fee loans
EU nationals starting in the 2020/21 academic year must have resided in the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland for the three years prior to the start of their course. The purpose of that three year residency should not have been mainly for the purpose of receiving full time education.
For maintenance loans
EU nationals starting in the 2020/21 academic year must have resided in the UK and Islands for the five years prior to the start of their course. The purpose of that five year residency should not have been mainly for the purpose of receiving full time education.
What our alumni say
The course has a good range of coursework presentations, essays, reports and even book reviews and poster making! The highlight of studying a geography based degree has to be the field trips.
Career prospects
Graduate Immigration Route visa
Based on current information from the UK Government, international students whose study extends beyond summer 2021 may be eligible for a visa under the UK Government’s Graduate Immigration Route, which will enable students to stay and work, or look for work, in the UK at any skill level for up to two (2) years. Check the most up to date guidance available to check your eligibility and any updates from the UK Government before making an application or enrolment decision.
Successful geography and natural hazards graduates should possess a number of skills that are highly valued by employers. As such, employment prospects can be good, as they should possess specialist skills and knowledge in natural hazard assessment and prevention.
The transferable analytical and problem-solving skills you’ll have the opportunity to gain as a successful geography graduate may also open up a wider variety of roles, such as a GIS officer, data analyst, flood risk analyst, sustainability officer, asset systems manager, environmental energy consultant, teacher, insurance assessor or government administrator.
Talent Team will help you in finding work experience while you study and employment on graduation. Choosing to undertake a professional training year should significantly enhance your prospects of finding graduate employment, while your GIS skills may provide entry to one of the most important emerging industries. Placements* have previously been undertaken at NEO Netherlands. These placements have involved students working closely with professionals in topics such as thermal mapping of transport networks and remote sensing.
Coventry University is committed to preparing you for your future career and giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. The university’s Talent Team provide a wide range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career.
*Please note that we are unable to guarantee any trip, placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
Where our graduates work
Recent graduates have gone on to work for the Environment Agency, the Meteorological Office, environmental departments of local authorities, utility companies including Severn Trent and EON, research institutes, charitable organisations and environmental consultancies. Others have continued their studies at postgraduate level, including teacher training and further study at Masters and PhD level.
What our alumni say
The Geography and Natural Hazards BSc (Hons) course was extremely interesting and varied. The best bits were the field trips and putting the theory to practice, they were really fun and well planned. One thing that I think makes this degree at Coventry stand out is the support you get from the lecturers. They are so helpful and kind and you really feel they care about you and your potential.
Disclaimer
By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the 2020/21 Contract can be found here. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.
The tuition fee for the course that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review our tuition fees each year. For UK and EU students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, we may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation. Following the UK’s exit from the European Union, EU students should be aware that there may be a change to UK laws following the UK’s exit, this may change their student status, their eligibility to study part time, and/or their eligibility for student finance. We will act in accordance with the UK’s laws in force in relation to student tuition fees and finance from time to time.
For International students the tuition fee that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review our tuition fees each year. For international students, we may increase fees for each subsequent year of study but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation.
