Research in Human GeographyMSc

Explore cutting-edge debates in human geography and environmental science. Our taught Research in Human Geography MSc offers comprehensive research training in theoretical frameworks, advanced methodologies, and ethical considerations. You’ll gain hands-on experience with the latest tools and techniques, preparing you to tackle complex environmental challenges and contribute to meaningful solutions.

Course Structure

While the exact course content may vary, here is what you can expect to study each semester. This is based on a full-time Masters course. 

• Expertise in Human Geography: Leverage our vast academic research expertise and research-focused teaching
• Cutting-edge Debates: Engage with contemporary issues in human geography, environmental science, and related fields
• Comprehensive research training: Gain skills in theoretical, philosophical, and methodological issues relevant to human geography and social science research

Our course draws on GEES’ expertise in Human Geography, providing extensive academic research knowledge, research-focused teaching, and essential transferable skills. You will engage with leading scholars, participate in innovative research projects, and develop a deep understanding of contemporary geographical issues. The curriculum is designed to equip you with critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills, preparing you for a wide range of careers. Additionally, you will have opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and collaborative projects, ensuring you gain practical experience and a competitive edge in the job market.

• Modules: Explore qualitative and quantitative methods for human geographers
• Teaching: Research-focused, delivered by experts from the School of Geography, Earth, and Environmental Sciences
• Methods: Lectures, seminars, workshops, and guided reading
• Assessments: Essays, seminar/group presentations, and a research project (dissertation)

The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

The optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.

2025/26 Session

The following must be taken:

Choose 60 credits from the following optional modules

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.

For this course we require IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 80 overall with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 Listening, 21 Speaking and 19 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 64 with no less than 59 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 25 in each skill

English Presessional Programmes

Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.

The fees quoted are for one year only; for those studying courses over two or more years, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Paying your tuition fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.

Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.

Postgraduate Masters Loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Birmingham Masters Scholarships

We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.

We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.

Our MSc graduates have excelled in academia, business, and policy roles. They’ve worked in areas including policy development, finance, consultancy, journalism, and market research. Some have pursued PhD research, including at prestigious institutions such as the University of Oxford. 

Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.

Accommodation

Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation will allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.

Living in Birmingham

As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham has developed into a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.

Campus life

Our green and spacious campus is the place where our diverse community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.

Student support

Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.

Take a virtual tour

Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.