Geography A Level
This course is ideal for those fascinated by the world we live in. You will study both physical and human geography. Alongside this you will be taught a range of transferable skills such as quantitative and qualitative analysis, communication skills e.g. report writing, and fieldwork skills.
Entry requirements
A minimum of 4 subjects at grade 5 or above at GCSE including English Language. It is not essential to have studied Geography at GCSE, but if taken, you must have achieved a grade 5, plus a 4 in Maths and Science.
What will I study?
Topics include:
- water and carbon cycles
- contemporary urban environments
- changing places, hot desert systems and landscapes
- hazards
- global systems
- global governance
Fieldwork
Fieldwork is an essential part of A Level Geography, and an aspect of the course that students find very enjoyable and rewarding.
The AQA exam board requires students to undertake 4 days of fieldwork, this would include 2 days of guided fieldwork and 2 days of independent fieldwork. We organise two separate days of fieldwork training normally at Beverley (to study urban heat islands) and Dalby Forest (to study factors affecting stream velocity).
Additionally, you will independently study contrasting urban environments by visiting several areas within York as part of the Changing Places module.
Over the course of the first year, you will develop the skills to conduct geography fieldwork independently. In the second year you will conduct your own fieldwork investigation that will contribute to your final grade.
Method of delivery
You will typically be in College four days per week, with lesson style varying according to subject. In-College delivery is supported by online resources, and students develop strong independent learning skills to equip them for their next steps.
How will I be assessed?
You will receive a variety of classwork and homework exercises throughout the course allowing you to practise the theory and skills you have learnt during the course. This will include past paper questions, enabling you to develop the technique needed to be successful in the A Level exams. An individual investigation where the student produces a written report accounts for 20% of the A Level grade.
Good course combinations
Geography will complement both science and humanities subjects.
Your next steps
Geography is a facilitating subject valued by employers and universities alike. Studying the subject develops your geographical knowledge skills to study a range of geography and environmental degrees. You will also gain a wealth of transferable skills such as problem solving, data analysis and teamwork that are valued in a range of degree programmes beyond geography.
There are many job opportunities for students who have taken courses in Geography, and employers welcome the wide range of skills covered. Geography sits comfortably with both sciences and humanities. Past students have gone on to study physical geography, human geography, environmental management, and environmental science.
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