A Level: Geography

Geography is the study of the earth’s landscapes, peoples, places and environments. It is, quite simply, about the world in which we live. Geography is unique in bridging the social sciences (human geography) with the natural sciences (physical geography). Geography puts this understanding of social and physical processes within the context of places and regions - recognising the great differences in cultures, political systems, economies, landscapes and environments across the world, and the links between them. Understanding the causes of differences and inequalities between places and social groups is a focus of much of the newer developments in human geography.

Geography is becoming more important in our world. Every day the news is filled with reports on climate change, issues about where we live and how we travel, natural disasters and human conflicts, what we eat and where it comes from and developments in local and global business. We live in a world where the richest 225 individual people have an income equal to the poorest 47 percent of the planet’s entire population (over 3 billion people). It’s important to understand what’s going on if we are to make informed choices about how we live and change the world for the better.

Year 12

Students will be expected to have met St Paul’s entry requirements of 2 Grade 5’s and 4 Grade 4’s. A minimum of grade 4 in English and Maths is essential for all courses.

Many students who do Geography at A-level use their qualification to do a degree in Geography or a related subject. Besides teaching, A-level geography is required for a number of careers, including research, science-based careers and environmental based careers. Example degree courses include Archaeology, Earth Sciences, Economics, Geography, Geology, International Relations, International Development, Leisure and Tourism, Oceanography and Politics.

Careers you could consider include Town Planner, Data Analyst, Environmental consultant, teacher, Cartographer, Nature Conservation Officer, Surveyor and many more.