What is Geography?
Geography is the study of human and physical environments and the interaction between them. The 'A' level course covers most aspects of Physical and Human Geography. Within the specification framework 'real world' examples are constantly used to support the more theoretical ideas. Students gain a valuable insight into issues and problems affecting the earth and its populations, from the local up to the global scale.
What other subjects go well with Geography?
Biology, Environmental Science, Geology, Economics, Business Studies, Mathematics, Modern Languages and Art are among the more popular complementary subjects.
What will I gain from studying the subject?
Students develop a better knowledge and understanding of the processes shaping the natural and social world in which we live, and of the complex inter-relationships between various human and physical environments. The problems and solutions which arise from this interaction are a particularly important feature of modern Geography syllabuses. Students learn skills of data analysis and of lucid expression which are transferable to many other disciplines. Geography 'A' level provides an excellent preparation for many degree courses, including Economics, Planning, Geology, Environmental Studies and, of course, Geography.
Do I have an aptitude for the subject?
You should have a keen interest in what is happening around you with respect to the physical and human environment. You will have a curious and enquiring mind which will evidence itself in your responses, both verbal and written, to a wide range of challenges and topics over the course of study. You should be constantly increasing your awareness of how news events have strong links with those topics you study in the classroom. It is helpful, but not essential, to have studied Geography at GCSE level before embarking on the AS course.