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 forth 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/subject.
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
Geography and Geoscience is also available within the Dual.B.A. Programme at https://tcd.gs.columbia.edu between Trinity College Dublin and Columbia University.
The Dual B.A. Programme between Trinity College Dublin and Columbia University offers students a unique opportunity to earn two B.A. degrees while spending the first two years at Trinity and the third and fourth years at Columbia University in New York.
This course is for those interested in expanding their experience to gain a truly international education. Students in the Dual B.A. Programme graduate with two B.A. degrees, one from Trinity and one from Columbia. After the first two years in Trinity, students then spend a further two years at Columbia, where they fulfil the requirements for one of the approved majors while also completing Columbia’s core curriculum. Students also undertake additional study to meet the requirements of the Trinity B.A., including a Capstone project.
At Trinity students acquire a broad grounding in geology, physical geography, and human environment interactions via classroom, laboratory, online, and field-based teaching. Students learn about issues such as climate change, natural hazards, energy, sustainability, and natural resources whilst studying the origins and development of our planet and the processes shaping its environments. In addition, students will expand their knowledge in the social sciences and a language.
The Dual B.A. is only open to Single Honours students. Joint Honours students cannot apply to the Dual B.A.
Application process and requirements
Applicants to the Dual B.A. Programme must apply by 2nd January 2024 for September 2024 entry. The admissions process includes a review of the applicant’s academic history, letters of recommendation, an essay, and an interview conducted in English. Standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) can be submitted but are not required for 2024 entry. Applications are reviewed by a joint committee with representatives from both Institutions. EU applicants to the Dual B.A. Programme must also apply to and receive an offer from their chosen programme at Trinity through the Central Applications Office (CAO).
Get in touch
Geoscience 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
Study Geography (Joint Honours) at Trinity
This presentation provides an outline of Geography (Joint Honours) at Trinity College Dublin.
Course Details
Awards
B.A. (Moderatorship) Honours Bachelor Degree (NFQ Level 8)CAO Information
CAO Points 485 (2023) CAO Code TR062Number of Places
54 Places
Admission Requirements
Leaving Certificate:
H6 or O4 in Mathematics
H4 in two of: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics/Chemistry, Geology, Geography, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics or Agricultural Science
GCSE:
Grade B/6 in Mathematics
Advanced GCE (A-Level)
Grade C in two of: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics/Chemistry, Geology, Geography, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics or Agricultural Science
International Baccalaureate:
SL Grade 5 Mathematics
HL Grade 5 in two of: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics/Chemistry, Geology, Geography, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics or Agricultural Science
Certain combinations of subjects are not permitted, including:
- Physics/Chemistry with Physics or Chemistry.
- Agricultural Science with Biology.
- Applied Mathematics with Mathematics.
Course Fees
Click here for a full list of undergraduate fees.
Apply
To apply to this course, click on the relevant Apply Link below
EU Applicants
Read the information about how to apply, then apply directly to CAO.
Non-EU Applicants
Advanced Entry Applications
Read the information about how to apply for Advanced Entry, then select the link below to apply.
Testimonials
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Geography, in general, presents countless opportunities and in studying at Trinity I feel the course has prepared me for whatever I want to do in the future! I engaged with topics on climate change, glaciers, and cities. I learnt about the surface of Mars and the creation of historical maps of Europe. And it is not only about the things I get to know but also the way they are taught – all the lecturers are very approachable, knowledgeable and helpful. There’s always a chance to exchange interesting facts and views. I have met new, exciting, and fun people I will never forget. Geography at Trinity was one of my best choices in life and I hope more people can experience it too!
Graduate
Testimonials
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It might be cheesy to say that ‘geography rocks’ but it’s true! Studying Geography at Trinity has left me with more than just an education. Through the wide range of modules offered within the course I have learnt a diverse range of skills which are really relevant in today’s society. Not only that, but the chance to partake in field-trips, both at home and abroad, makes this course an excellent place for forming lasting friendships while learning lots along the way.
Graduate