Overview
What are Geography and Geoscience as subjects?
Geography and Geoscience is the study of our planet and the people that live on it. This multi-disciplinary programme is designed by leading research scientists in response to critical challenges facing the Earth system and humanity in the 21st century. It integrates knowledge from the physical, chemical, biological and social sciences to develop novel insights into Earth system function and human-environment interactions. So, if you are interested in studying the dynamics of our planet, understanding environmental changes past, present and future, and learning how to manage Earth’s resources in an economic and sustainable manner, we have the degree for you.
The Geography and Geoscience degree programme is the Science entry pathway for the study of Geography (human and physical geography) and Geoscience (geology and physical geography) at Trinity. Our four-year programmes, culminating in the degrees of Geography or Geoscience, combine classroom lectures, seminars, laboratory-based practical classes, and outdoor field work, to develop the theoretical understanding and technical expertise needed to address applied, real-world problems such as natural resource management and sea level rise.
Structure of the Geography and Geoscience (TR062) programme
First and second years
In first and second year you will acquire a broad grounding in both Geography and Geoscience with an emphasis on physical geography, geology and human-environment interactions. You will learn about topical issues such as climate change, natural hazards (such as volcanoes, earthquakes, landslides), energy, sustainability and natural resources. These foundation years cover a diverse range of material including: the origins and development of our planet; earth structure and composition; circulation in the atmosphere and oceans; the evolution of life on Earth; Earth surface processes and environments (such as glaciers, rivers and deserts). In addition to learning about the physical, chemical and biological processes responsible for creating and shaping the Earth, students will also consider the unique role that humans play in the Earth system, including their impacts on the land, air and water, and the grand challenges linked to environmental governance, policy and management.
Third and fourth years
In third and fourth year, you will deepen your knowledge in specialist areas, while further developing a portfolio of practical and technical skills (such as geochemical analysis, geographical information systems). Our flexible programme structure provides for module choice while retaining coherent curriculum design, thereby ensuring graduates are well prepared for entry to the constantly changing job market. Specialist options span the breadth of Geography and Geoscience, allowing you to tailor the course to suit your interests. In this way, you may focus on topics traditionally associated with Geography (such as geomorphology, globalisation, sustainability) or Geology (such as volcanology, palaeontology, Earth resources), or you may choose to retain a broader, multi-disciplinary perspective that spans the critical interface between science and society.
Click here for further information on modules/subjects.
Graduate skills and career opportunities
Geography and Geoscience graduates are highly valued for their cross-disciplinary expertise, adaptability and experience of dealing with complex spatial or multi-variate datasets. They are in demand to work on many of society’s most important challenges, and can pursue lucrative and personally rewarding careers in industry, academia, research and government. Careers leading directly from the programme include work in: environmental, engineering and geological consultancies; mineral exploration companies; the hydrocarbon industry; environmental planning; overseas development; government geological surveys; teaching and research.
Trinity College Dublin and Columbia University Dual B.A. Programme
History of Art and Architecture is also available within the Dual B.A. Programme between Trinity College Dublin and Columbia University. Please note: The Dual B.A. is only open to Single Honours students. Joint Honours students cannot apply to the Dual B.A.. For more details, see https://tcd.gs.columbia.edu
Applicants to the Dual BA Programme must apply by 2nd January 2025 for September 2025 entry. The admissions process includes a review of the applicant’s academic history, letters of recommendation, an essay, and an interview conducted in English. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) can be submitted but are not required for 2025 entry. Applications are reviewed by a joint committee with representatives from both Institutions. EU applicants to the Dual BA Programme must also apply to and receive an offer from their chosen programme at Trinity through the Central Applications Office (CAO).
