A Level - Geography

Course Information

What does the course involve?

Geography is an exciting and topical course, it looks at engaging and contemporary issues around the world and links with human and physical elements. We follow the Edexcel two year A Level course. The course offers an issues-based approach, enabling students to explore and evaluate contemporary issues. The course investigates the physical and human world. 

Areas covered in the course include; tectonic processes and hazards, landscape systems, processes and change, coastal landscapes, water insecurity and the carbon cycle linked to energy security. We investigate globalisation and shaping places along with superpowers and global development issues and management. Within the course, many synoptic links occur through areas of migration, health and human rights. 

Fieldwork opportunities

We complete a residential trip each year, to allow fieldwork experience abroad; we investigate hazards and tectonics in Iceland and hazard management in The Bay of Naples. Fieldwork is an essential and integral part of Geography at A Level. Trips to local sites include; London, Minsmere, Walton on the Naze, Shotley, Sizewell and Ipswich Waterfront, as well as a day trip to Hannover in Germany.

The course outline

Year 1:

• Topic 1 = Tectonic Processes and Hazards
• Topic 2 = Landscape systems, processes and change: Coasts
• Topic 3 = Globalisation - its causes and consequences
• Topic 4 = Diverse Places

Coursework element: Local investigation relating to content. Physical and Human options which contributes 20% to your final A Level grade. This is completed at the end of the Year 1 through the Summer and into Year 2 Autumn term.

Year 2:

• Topic 5 = The Water Cycle and Water insecurity
• Topic 6 = The Carbon Cycle and Energy Security
• Topic 7 = Superpowers and the reasons for shifting power both economic and political
• Topic 8 = Global development and Connections; health, human rights and intervention or Migration, Identity and Sovereignty

For further course information please click here

Entry Requirements

At least 6 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 , including GCSE English Language, and meeting the entry criteria of individual subjects (Level 2 vocational qualifications at Merit or Distinction will be treated as equivalent to one GCSE)

Grade 5 in GCSE English Language and Mathematics, along with a grade 5 in Geography at GCSE. Applicants who have not taken Geography at GCSE will be considered on an individual basis.

Students will need to possess a real drive to investigate and evaluate current concerns, for our planet. They will contribute to class discussion with the ability to question ideas and evidence presented and have the ability to work to a deadline and to read around the subject. There is a high level of statistical analysis and use of data through the course. Arc GIS is utilised through the course to support analysis of space and place.

Can I take additional qualifications?

If you choose to study Geography, you will usually take it alongside two other A levels. Subjects which complement Geography include: Biology, Economics, History, English, Maths, Photography, Sociology and Business Studies. 

How will I be assessed?

There are three exams at the end of Year 2 and a coursework entry. 

What are the costs?

There are no charges to study on the course, however trips run as part of the course may incur a cost.

What is the duration?

This is a two year course.

What is the UCAS points tariff for this course?

A Level

How do I apply?

Click here to apply