School of Geography Undergraduate study 2017
geog.qmul.ac.uk
Queen Mary University of London • Member of the Russell Group – the UK’s 24 leading universities • Queen Mary is part of the internationally recognised University of London • World-class research and teaching by international leaders in their field • One of the largest self-contained campuses in London • Ranked in the top 10 of UK universities for research (REF 2014) • More than two thirds of subjects at QMUL are ranked in the top five for student satisfaction in London, including physical geography and environmental science ranked first with 94 per cent (NSS 2015)
Any section of this publication is available in large print upon request. If you require this publication in a different accessible format we will endeavour to provide this where possible. For further information and assistance, please contact: hr-equality@qmul.ac.uk; +44 (0)20 7882 5585. The information given in this publication is correct at the time of going to press. The College reserves the right to modify or cancel any statement in it and accepts no responsibility for the consequences of any such changes. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the website qmul.ac.uk This prospectus has been printed on environmentally friendly material from well-managed sources.
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Geography students head to Mumbai in the third year of their studies to explore the city’s dual economy. Pictured: class of 2015.
Contents
School of Geography 6 Why study geography or environmental science at Queen Mary? 8 Geography’s home in east London 10 Degree programmes 12 Modules, teaching and learning 18 Fieldwork 20 Laboratory facilities 24 Study abroad 26 Preparing for your future 28 Meet our graduates 30 International students 32 Get involved 34 Geography Society 36 Meet some of the team 38 Accommodation 40 QMUL student services and support 42 Festival of Geography 44 Visit us, open days, applications and resources for teachers 49 Academic staff and specialisms A-Z 50 Mile End campus 54
Front cover: Geography student Thomas FletcherWilson (Geography with Business Management BSc, 2016) captured this image while on fieldtrip in Mumbai, India. This photograph was the winner of the School of Geography’s annual photo competition in 2016. geog.qmul.ac.uk 3
Students in the second or third year, as part of the Alpine Environments fieldtrip, can explore physical processes in the Southern Alps in New Zealand. Š Mark Rice
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“Our students explore the world and the people that share it. They investigate the connections between societies, places and environments from local to global scales. Such a perspective – a truly geographical perspective – demands and develops an inquiring mind able to observe, analyse and engage with some of the most important issues of our time” Professor Alison Blunt, Head of School
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School of Geography
Top 100 A world-class education: the School of Geography at QMUL is one of the top 100 geography departments in the world (QS World University Rankings 2015).
80%
Almost 80 per cent of our research is ranked as world-leading (4*) or internationally excellent (3*) in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2014).
Our students ranked us between 93-94 per cent in terms of overall satisfaction in the most recent National Student Survey (NSS 2015).
4 9 3 9 %
Fieldwork Our students take their learning out into the real world in destinations as diverse as Boston, the Florida Everglades and Los Angeles (USA), Belfast and Dublin (UK and Ireland), the Southern Alps (New Zealand) and Mumbai (India). Croatia and South Africa are also options for Environmental Scientists. 6 geog.qmul.ac.uk
96 per cent
geography and environmental science 96 per ofstudents were in work or further cent study six months after graduation (Destination of Leavers from Higher Education survey 2013/14).
Laboratories From the field to the laboratory, physical geography and environmental science student research is supported by state-ofthe-art scientific laboratories.
Experts Our academics have acted as advisers to local, national and international organisations such as Citizens UK, the Department of Health, the Environment Agency, Unesco and the World Bank. They are also acknowledged by many learned societies as having made a substantial contribution to research.
Russell Group university The Russell Group represents 24 leading UK universities which represent the best research, an outstanding teaching and learning experience, and unrivalled links with business and the public sector. geog.qmul.ac.uk 7
Why study geography or environmental science at Queen Mary? Excellence in research
As a member of the Russell Group of universities, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) is recognised internationally for its excellence in research as well as teaching. The School of Geography is ranked fifth in the UK for the quality of its research publications (REF 2014), demonstrating that our staff are not only at the forefront of the discipline, but are committed to seeing their work make a difference in the lives of people across the world.
The world is our classroom
Fieldwork is the lifeblood of geography and environmental science. All first year compulsory fieldtrips (Norfolk and Liverpool) are included in the tuition fees. Students can take part in fieldtrips in each year of their degree, both the UK and abroad. International fieldtrips run in the second and third years and are subject to annual variation. Destinations currently include Boston, the Florida Everglades and Los Angeles (USA), Belfast and Dublin (UK and Ireland), the Southern Alps (New Zealand) and Mumbai (India).* *See page 20 for more information on fieldtrips.
London location
Based in the creative and culturally diverse area of east London, we are based in Queen Mary’s friendly, self-contained Mile End campus – one of the largest in the capital. The 2012 Olympics changed our local area forever - as a student with us, you will be placed at the heart of this ongoing development, which provides the perfect backdrop for your studies.
Excellence in teaching
We are highly rated in London for satisfaction: 94 per cent of physical geography and 8 geog.qmul.ac.uk
environmental science students and 93 per cent of human geography students are satisfied with their programme overall, placing us first and second in London respectively (NSS 2015). QMUL has developed an online learning and teaching platform (QMplus) while the School has also recently refurbished its laboratories and has made significant investment in field equipment. We ensure specialist support staff are on hand for all types of research.
Student support
Even before you arrive at Queen Mary, we aim to ease the transition from home to university life. Our Springboards Team of current undergraduates will be at Welcome Week and online to answer any questions that you might have – however big or small. We also place an academic tutorial system at the centre of our teaching so that, in addition to lectures and seminars, you’ll meet regularly in small groups with a personal academic tutor.
Tailor your degree
At Queen Mary, you have the opportunity to tailor your degree to best suit your academic interests. In the first year, you will explore key ideas in modules covering a range of critical issues central to the study of geography and environmental science. In the second and third years, you can select from a range of option modules that relate directly to our areas of research expertise. See page 19 for more details.
Preparing you for the world of work
Our graduates choose from a variety of careers – whether they want to draw directly on their subject knowledge, such as international development or environmental consultancy, or use their transferable skills to move into sectors such as finance, law or education.
“Fieldwork really opens your eyes to what you learn about in lectures, and on a personal level it has shown me a whole world that’s just waiting to be explored” Thomas Howlin, Geography BSc, 2015
Students in the first week of their studies explore geographical and environmental issues in our capital through the ‘Green London’ project. geog.qmul.ac.uk 9
Geography’s home in east London
Our home in east London
Queen Mary has been at the heart of education in east London since the late 19th century. A local philanthropic trust built The People’s Palace, our oldest building, in 1887 to provide high-quality facilities for the education of the local community. Historical documents reveal that thousands of people attended the free talks, musical events, exhibitions, gardens, swimming pool, entertainments and library that were made available for local use. More than 125 years later, the School of Geography echoes this historic commitment to working with a wide range of communities, both local and global.
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East London is a place of remarkable diversity and vibrancy. The area reflects the capital’s historic growth as a port city and, more recently, as a global financial centre, and it has become the focal point of culture-led regeneration and a fast-developing Tech City. It is also the hub of London’s creative community and home to an array of cultural institutions, galleries, festivals and artists, not to mention a lively nightlife and global cuisine. It was also, of course, host to the Olympic Games in 2012. The area’s history and ongoing transformations make it an inspiring place in which to live and study. The ability to apply a geographical perspective to problem-solving amongst so much change is a key skill that helps our students flourish in so many different careers and roles once they graduate from QMUL.
Collaborative research and learning
Collaborations with local organisations also help to place our students at the forefront of the latest research. Within walking distance from our Mile End campus is a range of cultural institutions with whom we have built successful collaborative research partnerships, including the Geffrye Museum of the Home, the V&A Museum of Childhood and the Ragged School Museum, while others such as the Natural History Museum, British Museum and the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) are only a short journey away on the Tube.
London and the East End: a resource for your studies
London has many resources for scholars of geography and environmental science. Besides its numerous institutions, libraries and archives, London itself is a living resource - centred on the river that brought settlers to the region thousands of years ago, today the city is a place of global interconnection, where flows of people and cultures of all kinds come together and interact.
East London is a place of contrasts; it mirrors London’s global city status through the sheer diversity of the people that live and work here as well as its less auspicious standing as an increasingly economically divided city. Here we come full circle: as a School of Geography we believe, like our forebears, that by working together as academics and students alongside the wider community, we can bring about change. In this, we honour our own and the discipline of geography’s radical roots.
The East End in particular continues to present geographers with a wealth of local and international research opportunities and challenges. These span the breadth of the discipline, from issues of migration and identity to understanding and managing the city’s physical environments and impacted rivers. So whether you’re interested in urban politics, urban river restoration, green space in the city or transnational migration, the area will be a stimulating place in which to study. geog.qmul.ac.uk 11
Degree programmes
Geography BA
Geography BSc
A-level: AAB-BBB with at least a B in Geography
A-level: AAB-BBB with at least a B in Geography
IB: 30-34 points overall with 6, 6, 5-5, 5, 5 in higher level subjects, including geography
IB: 30-34 points overall with 6, 6, 5-5, 5, 5 in higher level subjects, including geography
Excluded subject: General studies
Excluded subject: General studies
Are you interested in cultures, economies and societies, and their interaction with the natural environment? The flexibility of our Geography BA allows you to focus on areas of interest including: globalisation and development, geopolitics, social justice, cities past, present and future, economy and society; culture and identity; people and the environment; and the science and politics of climate change, while keeping the option of specialist physical geography modules open. We will train you in innovative research methods from visual analysis to interviewing and geographical information systems (GIS). You’ll learn in the classroom, ďŹ eld and laboratory while exciting fieldtrip destinations include the UK as well as India, Ireland and the USA.*
Do you want to understand the processes and dynamics of the physical environment, and how these shape the interactions taking place between the natural environment and society? Our Geography BSc enables you to explore the processes and mechanisms that shape the planet, examining how physical, chemical, biological and human agents affect the landscape across varying timescales. We explore key topics and issues including geomorphology, climate change, environmental management, river science and natural hazards, and examine how these influence or are conditioned by human activity. We will train you to investigate and understand physical processes using state-of-the-art field and laboratory equipment, GIS and environmental modelling. You will all participate in UK-based fieldwork and have the option to go on international fieldtrips to New Zealand or the USA.*
L700 BA (three years)
For module information and further details, please visit: qmul.ac.uk/L700 *See page 20 for information of fieldtrips.
F800 BSc (three years)
For module information and further details, please visit: qmul.ac.uk/F800
We will consider applications from students who are not taking geography at A-Level or as part of the IB where there is an appropriate alternative academic subject. We also welcome applications with appropriate BTEC, Access to HE, Foundation degree qualifications and with non-UK qualifications. Please contact the admissions team if you would like further advice on your application on 020 7882 8168 or email: geogadmissions@qmul.ac.uk 12 geog.qmul.ac.uk
“In the evenings these valleys really came alive as the lower angle of light cast many shadows and highlighted different aspects of the valley; it really made the water sparkle” Joshua Leigh, Geography BSc, 2015 and current Environmental Science MSc student. Joshua’s image was taken on a research trip to the Austrian Alps and was the winner of the School of Geography’s annual photo competition in 2015.
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Degree programmes
Human Geography BA L720 BA (three years)
A-level: AAB-BBB with at least a B in Geography IB: 30-34 points overall with 6, 6, 5-5, 5, 5 in higher level subjects, including geography Excluded subject: General studies Are you keen to specialise in human geography and explore the cultures, economies and societies that make up our world, both past and present? Our Human Geography BA gives you the chance to explore a breadth of topics including: globalisation and development, geopolitics, social justice, cities past, present and future, economy and society; culture, identity, gender and power, global historical geographies, and Victorian London. Additional options of the geographies of biomedicine and global health are unique to this programme. We will train you in innovative research methods from visual analysis to interviewing and GIS. Exciting fieldtrips allow you to experience research for yourself and include destinations in the UK as well as India, Ireland and the USA.* For module information and further details, please visit: qmul.ac.uk/L720
Geography with Business Management BSc FVN1 BSc (three years)
A-level: AAB-BBB with at least a B in Geography IB: 30-34 points overall with 6, 6, 5-5, 5, 5 in higher level subjects, including geography Excluded subject: General studies Are you interested in studying a mix of physical and human geography while developing skills in business management? Taught by staff in the School of Geography and the School of Business and Management, this degree explores diverse topics from globalisation and development, geopolitics, social justice, cities past, present and future, economy and society; to the science and politics of climate change, environmental systems and natural hazards. There are options to cover the fundamentals of business such as economics, management, marketing, financial accounting and human resources. You will develop research skills and techniques in the classroom, ďŹ eld and laboratory, with fieldtrip destinations including the UK, Ireland, India and the USA.* For module information and further details, please visit: qmul.ac.uk/FVN1 *See page 20 for information on fieldtrips.
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Kreepa works for the Students’ Union at QMUL, co-ordinating a student mentoring scheme.
“My university experience has been something that I have really grown to value. My degree combined two disciplines and this turned out to be a great advantage once I entered the world of work, with aspects from both geography and business management modules broadening my skills set” Kreepa Mehta, Geography with Business Management BSc, 2014 and current Global Development Futures MA student
Move Bryony pic and quote to be BSc Env Sci and BSc Env Sci and Bus Mgmt
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“I love how diverse the course is. We are taught a range of subjects from geography to biology to the politics of climate change – the material is always relevant to current global issues” Sara Aweis, Environmental Science BSc, 2016 16 www.geog.qmul.ac.uk
Degree programmes
Environmental Science BSc F850 BSc (three years)
A-level: AAB-BBB with one science A-level at minimum grade B IB: 30-34 points overall with 6, 6, 5-5, 5, 5 in higher level subjects, including a science subject Excluded subject: General studies Do you want to investigate the interactions between physical and ecological systems, and how these relate to human activity? This interdisciplinary degree draws upon the expertise of the School of Geography and the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences to offer a distinctive degree programme You will have the chance to explore a wide range of themes including ecology, diversity and evolution, conservation, environmental pollution, river science and environmental engineering. Students undertake core training in environmental science research skills and techniques both in the field and the laboratory. There is a substantial fieldwork programme, with destinations including the UK, Florida and New Zealand. Fieldwork options from the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences also offer our students the chance to opt in to trips to other destinations, most recently Croatia and South Africa.* For module information and further details, please visit: qmul.ac.uk/F850
Environmental Science with Business Management BSc F8N2 BSc (three years)
A-level: AAB-BBB with one science A-level at minimum grade B IB: 30-34 points overall with 6, 6, 5-5, 5, 5 in higher level subjects, including a science subject Excluded subject: General studies Do you want to study the links between physical, human and ecological environments and the practical role of business in engaging with and shaping these interactions? Drawing on expertise within the School of Geography, the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences and the School of Business and Management, this multidisciplinary degree programme allows you to explore a diverse range of topics. From evolution to climate, and environmental pollution to river science and management, you will study the environment alongside business concerns such as economics, management, marketing and human resources. You can also specialise on subjects as diverse as environmental engineering and the geographies of science and nature. Students undertake core training in environmental research techniques, financial accounting and business strategy, as well as exciting ďŹ eldwork opportunities in the UK, the USA and New Zealand.* For module information and further details, please visit: qmul.ac.uk/F8N2 *See page 20 for information on fieldtrips. geog.qmul.ac.uk 17
Modules, teaching and learning Join the School of Geography and be taught by academics at the very forefront of their fields. We’re renowned for being a friendly and supportive School, and we work side by side with our students to make sure they develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. Week One – welcome to our capital location Each year, all our first year students spend the first week of their degree undertaking an exciting range of activities focusing on people and nature in London. This will help you get to know other students, explore the city in new ways and have a great start to your studies through fieldwork. Tutors Tutorials provide you with the opportunity for regular contact and discussion with a member of staff across every year of your studies. In the first year, you will meet weekly in small groups to get feedback on your written work; in the second year, you will focus on research methods; and in the third year, your tutor will be assigned depending on which specialism you choose for your independent research. Tutors and academic advisors help with module selection and provide pastoral as well as academic support. Peer-Assisted Learning (PASS) Mentor Scheme The School of Geography’s PASS scheme offers mentoring for first- and second-year students where they can tap into the skills and experience of our other students. From exam preparation to essay writing and referencing, the term-time weekly sessions offer an informal and friendly way to get help and advice. 18 geog.qmul.ac.uk
Online learning QMplus is the university’s online learning environment (a version of Moodle) and is used by lecturers and your academic school to share learning materials (lecture slides, assignments, group work) as well as communicate with you about learning and administrative matters. Modules Almost 80 per cent of the School’s research publications are ranked as world-leading or internationally excellent, and it is this research excellence that shapes and inspires our teaching programme. Choosing to study for a degree in QMUL’s School of Geography therefore gives you access to the very latest work in the fields of human geography, physical geography and environmental science. Our research-led teaching focuses on our four key themes: - Culture, Space and Power - Economy, Development and Social Justice - Health, Security and Biosciences - Earth Surface Science In the first year of your degree, you will be introduced to a broad foundation of knowledge and skills across these areas. In your second year, you will begin to focus on areas specific to your interest, which prepares you for further specialist study in your third year. Research skills As part of the modules we offer (see opposite page), there are tutorials and lectures in your first and second years that will prepare you to complete independent research across human and physical geography and environmental science.
Year 2 (Level 5) Human Geography
Health, Biomedicine and Society
Geographies of Health and Place n Geographies of Nature n Geography, Technology and Society
Society and Space
Urban Futures* n Boston Reworked* n Victorian London n Geography, Identity and Belonging* n Religion, Belief and Space
Cultural Geographies Spaces of Uneven Development Economic Geographies
Physical Geography
Advanced GIS
Earth System Cycles
Integrated Catchment Management n Environmental Management Applications* n Alpine Environments: Physical Processes in the New Zealand Southern Alps* n Geo-ecology and Geo-ecosystems n
Digital Cartography
Progress in Physical Geography and Environmental Science n Science and the Politics of Climate Change n Environmental Hazards n Terrestrial Vegetation Modelling
Global Environmental Change
Cold Environments n Quaternary Palaeoenvironments n Geo-ecology and geo-ecosystems
Ecological Interactions*
Behavioural Ecology n Global Change Biology Progress in Physical Geography and Environmental Science
Evolutionary Genetics Animal and Plant Diversity
Business Management
Gender and Development n Development Futures: Mumbai Unbound* n Globalisation, and Regional Development n Contemporary India: Politics, society and the economy n Geopolitics Post 9/11 n Geographies of Democracy
GIS
GIS, Remote Sensing and Modelling
Environmental Science
Year 3 (Level 6)
Marketing Financial Accounting
Strategy n Management of Human caption Resources n Environmental Engineering n International Environmental Law
* = field class. Note: the modules listed above are a guide to show the broad routes through our programmes. These can vary from year to year. All overseas field class modules (which run in alternate years) are levels 5/6, except ‘Development Futures: Mumbai Unbound’ which is levels 6/7.
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Fieldwork
Fieldwork plays a vital role in our geography and environmental science teaching programmes at QMUL. It takes learning from the classroom out into the world, turning it into a real and shared experience. First year Our research training modules in the first year are supported by numerous fieldwork projects conducted in a range of rural and urban settings, from Norfolk to Liverpool and the East End of London. The cost of all compulsory fieldwork in the first year is covered through tuition fees. Second and third year Students can apply to take part in specialist modules that involve longer, overseas field classes as their studies develop, including those also offered to our environmental scientists from the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences. Destinations currently include Boston, the Florida Everglades and Los Angeles (USA), Belfast and Dublin (UK and Ireland), the Southern Alps (New Zealand), Mumbai (India). Environmental scientists may also have the opportunity to travel to Croatia and South Africa on fieldwork.
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Students can also choose to engage in overseas fieldwork as part of their final year Independent Geographical Study (IGS) or Project in Environmental Science (PES) their dissertation. Some locations in which our recent undergraduates have undertaken primary data collection for their dissertation include: China, Russia, New Zealand, Madagascar, Iceland, India, Nepal, Austria, Portugal, Spain, the USA and Canada. Supervision and laboratory support is provided by the School of Geography; however, fieldwork for dissertation projects is self-funded. Students can apply to the QMUL Expedition Fund to support their fieldwork in the summer vacation. Fieldwork costs Compulsory fieldwork in the School of Geography is undertaken at no extra cost. Optional overseas fieldwork in the second and third year ranges from ÂŁ400 to ÂŁ950, some with additional flight costs (based on costs in the year 2015/16). Destinations can vary year-on-year, are subject to availability and are dependent on the module combinations chosen. International field class modules at levels 5/6 and levels 6/7 run in alternate years. If fieldtrip modules are oversubscribed, places are allocated by ballot. Students taking part in overseas fieldtrips are responsible for securing their own visas if required.
Students in the second or third year can explore physical processes in the Southern Alps in New Zealand. © Mark Rice
“Fieldwork is one of the best parts about studying geography. It can take you wherever you want to go and changes the way you view such places in the future. It’s an immersive experience; you become more aware of your surroundings plus, it keeps you on your toes, both physically and metally” Joshua Leigh, Geography BSc, 2015 and current Environmental Science MSc student
* = field class. Note: the modules listed above are a guide to show the broad routes through our programmes. These can vary from year to year.
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Fieldwork
Here, some of our students share their thoughts on legendary QMUL field classes:
Dublin/Belfast - Sophie Lyddon, Geography BA, 2014 “Talking to local communities and seeing Dublin and Belfast from a perspective that is not available to most visitors opened my eyes to some of the realities of identity and belonging in Northern Ireland and the Republic. The trip was a highlight of my degree.”
Durham - Tanzina Khatun, Geography BA, 2017 “I felt so grateful for this field trip for everything from enhancing my knowledge of north east England to giving me a firsthand experience of what locals feel about their community’s current climate, as well as the free time I had to make new friends and socialise with existing ones.”
Los Angeles Thomas Ganly, Human Geography BA, 2015 “Fieldwork is not only a great way to make new friends and to bond with classmates, but it allows you to see the theories and ideas learned in lectures play out in a real life context; it can challenge some of the pre-conceptions you may have about a place.”
Boston Will Johnstone, Human Geography BA, 2015 “Boston was one of the best weeks of my life. Large amounts of exploration, lots of American food, friendly people (who for some reason thought I was really cool) and fascinating research combined to make a field trip that I’ll never forget.”
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Somerset - Leslie Pang, Geography BA, 2016 “The opportunity for fieldwork is too good to miss. The trip to Somerset allowed me to learn and practise skills in primary data collection. It was a great experience working with your friends and lecturers and now I’ll always take every chance to travel and experience the world I am studying first hand.”
Florida Everglades Colan Chin, Geography BSc, 2015 “Florida 2015 was an amazing trip. Words cannot describe how much I enjoyed it and how astonished I am about how much I have learned in such little time - I wish revision was this easy!”
Croatia - Kanahaya Alam, Environmental Science BSc, 2016 “Our ecology field trip to Croatia was undoubtedly one of the best field trips ever - we studied the behaviours of bats, amphibians, crayfish, went birdwatching, and learned about spring food webs, intertidal marine biology, and vegetation succession. The village we stayed at was in the foothills of the Dinara Mountain; Croatia’s highest mountain!”
Cairngorms Ebony Acheampong, Environmental Science with Business Management BSc, 2016 “I returned to the Cairngorms in my second year to work with the new first years on a series of fieldwork activities including geocaching which is great experience. It’s a fab trip - amazing environment, good friends, and lots of tea and cake.”
South Africa Jack Melaugh-Mcateer, Environmental Science BSc, 2016 “The work on the fieldtrip was varied and interesting and there was ample time to enjoy the surroundings with excursions planned by the organisers. The highlight for me was the two days spent on safari in the Kruger National Park - an amazing experience which will remain with me until I’m an old man.”
DID YOU KNOW? You can see films from these trips on our YouTube channel: youtube.com/QMULGeography To find out more about our field trips visit: geog.qmul.ac.uk/fieldwork
New Zealand Sasha Catchpole, Geography BSc, 2014 “The field trip was the perfect way to contextualise everything I had learned about sediment and alpine processes in my degree. I saw the whole system, from the magnificent Alps and glaciers, to the braided river systems that lead out to the sea. It’s a scale of environment I had never seen before.”
Mumbai - Zinnia Pourdad, Geography BA, 2015 “Having the opportunity to visit Mumbai during my time at QMUL is something I will always be grateful for. The city is incredible and every day was a whole new experience. The trip allowed me to develop valuable skills, expand my geographical knowledge and question westerncentric theories we take for granted.”
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Laboratory facilities
The School of Geography’s Laboratory and Field Suite supports research carried out by staff and students concerned with environmental systems, their processes and their interactions in the present, past, and uncertain future. Observational, experimental and computational techniques are of paramount importance to our interdisciplinary research, where students are provided with opportunities to undertake hands-on field research, combined with stateof-the-art laboratory analysis.
River Lab
Within the School of Geography, our research is built on strong collaborations that are national and international in scope. We also serve as a teaching platform for the next generation of ecosystem and earth system scientists. The School contains an exceptional range of instrumentation for the field and laboratory settings. Students can conduct activities such as analysis of environmental macronutrients and contaminants; micromorphological analysis of sediment fabrics; and channel and river dynamics using a variety of field modeling techniques in combination with laboratory flumes which create 3D simulations. Students are introduced to field and laboratory work in their first and second year and taught the skills that will set them up for research that they can undertake for their independent research (dissertation) projects in their third and final years. Find out more and take a virtual tour of the laboratories at geog.qmul.ac.uk/facilities. 24 geog.qmul.ac.uk
Main Teaching Lab
Micromorphology Suite
You can explore a range of environmental factors and processes including: • concentrations of pollutants (for example heavy metals in landfill sites) • nutrients (for example in river systems) • carbon and nitrogen, and greenhouse gases • environmental change through the analysis of sediments and fossils • glacial systems • river form and behaviour
“I have used the labs to analyse soil samples taken from my own back garden to look at the different metal concentrations in them. We then compared them with other people’s to get a bigger picture of soil contamination in London. This was very interesting as it showed the health risks associated with the different metals and it was intriguing to see all the very different results” Scott Hawkins, Geography BSc 2015
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Study Abroad
Study abroad with QMUL
Spending a year abroad during your studies is an enriching and exciting way to broaden your experience and perspective – and second nature to our geographers and environmental scientists! There are several opportunities for students at QMUL who are interested in taking some time abroad during their degrees, from summer schools to semester and year-long exchanges. QMUL students are encouraged to develop a global perspective and travel as far afield as Europe, America, Asia and Australasia.
QMUL International Exchange Programme
This exciting scheme enables students from QMUL to spend either the autumn semester or a full academic year at one of our partner institutions. Applications open in the first semester of the first year at QMUL, so it’s good to get in touch with the School’s Study Abroad co-ordinator as early as possible. Academic work completed abroad counts towards your QMUL degree, but you’ll need to agree your programme with our academic coordinator.
Summer Study Abroad Opportunities
Every year, QMUL works with its partner universities across the globe to design and promote international experiences for our students during the summer. All the programmes are different, concentrating on academic study, language learning, work with local communities, cultural immersion, or a combination of all these elements. Currently there are opportunities to spend a few weeks with our partner universities in Latin America, China or India, but the list is steadily growing. This placement does not count towards your degree but is a valuable cultural experience. 26 geog.qmul.ac.uk
Roskilde University, which is 30 mins from lively Copenhagen, is the destination for QMUL Geography Erasmus+ students in Denmark
Erasmus+
Erasmus+ is an EU scheme aims to boost the skills and employability of European students by offering a semester or year abroad at a partner university within Europe. Like the International Exchange, it counts towards your QMUL degree and also takes place in the second year. The School of Geography has an exchange agreement with Roskilde University in Denmark where teaching is in English. Students participating in an Erasmus+ exchanges are eligible for an Erasmus+ grant (€300/month in 2015-16). You can read more about these opportunities at: qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate
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“Learning Chinese was a challenge, but one I was determined to conquer. From calligraphy classes to sight-seeing around Shanghai, taking the opportunity to go to China for a month was one of the best decisions I have made at my time at QMUL! Campus life at East China University of Science and Technology is friendly and welcoming – I made some amazing new friends” Cheryl Briars, Geography BSc, 2015
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Preparing for your future
Throughout your degree, you will have access to an annual programme run by Careers and Enterprise at Queen Mary, which includes in-curriculum support as well as employer-led workshops and networking events - ideal to help you get ready for graduation. Annual Careers Programme
Geography students have a dedicated Careers Consultant who runs a programme of support. First years get four careers lectures plus two incurriculum careers-based assignments in their first term and all students in all years receive career tutorials on career choice, getting work experience and presenting degree skills to an employer at interview. There is also an annual career options event with graduate speakers. Previous events have looked at careers such as environmental consultancy to sustainability management, catastrophe risk management, entrepreneurship, transport, accounting, insurance, international development, marketing and the civil service.
Work experience
Opportunities for work experience are substantial given Queen Mary’s location between Canary Wharf, the City and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Students are encouraged to gain work experience and there are more than 2,200 vacancies to browse on the QMUL JobOnline vacancy site. You can find opportunities through the Students’ Union or our Careers and Enterprise department. QTemps offers temporary work on and local to campus and QInterns places students into paid internships. 28 geog.qmul.ac.uk
Challenge yourself
QProjects is a Guardian award-winning scheme that places Queen Mary students into challenging work experience projects in local charities. The aim is to give students an opportunity to develop and apply their skills while helping the community. Placements take up only one day a week of your time, are flexible around your schedule and last for three months. QProjects also offers students application and interview feedback, access to our online module Transitioning into the Workplace and a one-on-one skills debrief with a Careers Consultant. Read more at careers.qmul.ac.uk. The broad range of knowledge and skills developed studying with the School of Geography, coupled with multiple opportunities for extra-curricular activities and work experience, has enabled our students to move into a range of careers. Recent destinations include: • Business Analyst, Coutts Bank • Project Manager, Friends of the Earth • Operations Manager, Edirisa UK • Legal Caseworker, Bar Pro Bono Unit • Assistant Organiser, Citizens UK • Risk Management Assistant, Allied Irish Bank • Policy Advisor, Cabinet Office • Consultant, Reading Agricultural Consultants • Waste Monitoring Officer, Oxford City Council • Underwriting Assistant, Lloyd’s • Marine Insurance Broker, Lloyd’s • Charity Communications Officer, Plan UK • Volunteering Coordinator, QMUL
The national 2014 first destination survey confirmed that 96 per cent of graduates from the School of Geography were in employment and/ or study six months after graduation, with 81 per cent of this group already working or studying at graduate level. Destination of Leavers from Higher Education survey 2013/14
QProjects case study Grant Tregonning (Environmental Science BSc, 2015, and current Environmental Science MSc student), joined QProjects and took a placement with the Canal & River Trust.
What did you enjoy about the placement? I was given the opportunity to be creative and develop ideas independently and as part of a team. I also enjoyed the freedom to use a variety of skills such as research, design, editing and event management. How has the experience helped your career development? The QProjects placement has given me first-hand experience of leading and managing a large project which will inevitably become useful in my future career aspirations. What would you like to do after you graduate? I am hoping to progress within academia - I am currently studying for an MSc in Environmental Science at Queen Mary. Following this, I hope to study for my PhD and explore sustainable development in emerging economies around the world. canalrivertrust.org.uk geog.qmul.ac.uk 29
Meet our graduates
Ben Chandler, Geography BSc, 2013 PhD candidate at QMUL Geography
“The support, teaching, facilities and resources I had at Queen Mary really set me on my way for what I hope will be a future career in academia. My degree provided the theoretical background necessary to undertake my MSc research, which examined glacier-climate interactions at an outlet glacier in Iceland, as well as the foundation for my current PhD research.”
Nick Hajdu, Geography BA, 1995 - Digital Entrepreneur “I’ve worked across the media and have launched two businesses. My top tips to graduates are to take internships because placements give invaluable experience and can lead to permanent roles; get networking – use as many contacts as you can from parents to LinkedIn to find opportunities; and expand your interests – show initiative because extra-curricular activities appeal to employers too.” 30 geog.qmul.ac.uk
Vivian Hughes, Environmental Science with Business Management BSc, 2015 - Project Support Consultant
“I found my degree very dynamic and educational. Having the opportunity to take modules from the Schools of Geography, Biological and Chemical Sciences, and Business and Management is truly unique, as courses in the UK generally tend to focus on one department only. This enabled me to develop a wide range of skills, as I had to understand how each department works differently in terms of teaching and what is expected of me, which is essential for future jobs in diverse industries.”
Abigail Aldridge, Geography BSc, 2014 Programme Assistant at Global Action Plan “I go into businesses, schools and communities and help them to be more sustainable. My time and studies at QMUL (especially my trips to glaciers in Iceland and New Zealand!) made me keen to take action against climate change and gave me the passion I needed to engage others in environmental issues.”
Subaskar Sitsabeshan, Environmental Science BSc, 2011Project Manager at The Climate Group
“I’m responsible for leading and developing programme strategy for projects on acceleration of rural access to sustainable energy in India and the future of global energy, together with research and performance tracking support for The Climate Group’s wider programmes internationally. Over time, I’ve realised one of the most important aspects of my course was the relationships I built which were immensely valuable from professional connections to lifelong friends. My experience at Queen Mary and the people I met there have prepared me well for life after graduation and I’m always grateful for the support I received.”
Tom Walker, Geography BA, 1997 Director, Cities and Local Growth, Cabinet Office “I’m the Government’s Director of Cities and Local Growth which means being responsible for local economic policies; it’s real life geography. I’ve had a long career in the civil service working on housing, regeneration, planning, economic growth, criminal justice and constitutional reform; it’s all a bit like a geography degree.”
Lizzie Daish, Geography BA, 2012 Director of Strategy at Shuffle Festival “I co-founded Shuffle – an annual community festival and public developer based in Mile End. Shuffle is about opening spaces to encourage public ownership and expressions of creativity. We are currently planning our first permanent community space in collaboration with the Friends of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park and Tower Hamlets Council. Queen Mary was my first choice; I wanted to be in London and in a department which actively engaged in creating a more equal society.”
Lucy Diggens, Geography BSc, 2012 Laboratory Technician at QMUL Geography “I studied my undergraduate degree programme in the School of Geography and this focused my interest and developed my knowledge of glaciers and subglacial processes. I really enjoyed being part of the School and knew it had great laboratory facilities to help me specialise further at postgraduate level. Working as a Research Assistant in the School with scanning equipment such as a tomograph and analysing sediment samples gave me a good grounding to gain my current post as a Laboratory Technician.” geog.qmul.ac.uk 31
International students
Queen Mary has a long history of welcoming students from around the world and today we’re home to students and staff from more than 155 different countries. This diversity contributes to a lively and welcoming community which should make you feel comfortable and at home. A wide range of support is available specifically for international students including advice on money, immigration and other practical aspects of coming to live and study in the UK. English language support: all teaching at QMUL is in English, so a good command of the language is essential. QMUL provides a number of language programmes to improve your language proficiency throughout your studies as well as a pre-sessional summer programme from June – September. Find out about the course structure, dates and fees at: language-centre.sllf.qmul.ac.uk Foundation programmes: QMUL offers a oneyear pre-undergraduate foundation course in Humanities and Social Sciences and Science and Engineering with a progression route to our undergraduate degrees. Find out more about the foundation course at: language-centre.sllf. qmul.ac.uk Support during your studies: there is a free programme of courses, workshops and tutorials throughout the academic year to help in areas such as academic writing, grammar and vocabulary, lecture comprehension, seminar skills, time management, revision and exam technique. 32 geog.qmul.ac.uk
Welcome Programme: QMUL arranges for international students to be collected from Heathrow Airport on arrival in the UK. Practical advice about living and studying in London is also available, as well as a programme of social events throughout the year. International Week: the Students’ Union runs a series of events to celebrate the world cultures of all the people who make up the QMUL community. Accommodation: all international students have the opportunity to live in QMUL accommodation (as long as you apply by the relevant deadlines). Visit: residences.qmul.ac.uk Meet QMUL staff overseas: QMUL’s International Team travels around the world throughout the year meeting with prospective students. To find out when we will be next visiting your country, visit: qmul.ac.uk/international Associate Students: We welcome Associate Students onto a wide range of modules that span global environmental change, earth system cycles, culture, society and the city, globalisation and development, and health and biomedicine. To find out more about the support available to international students as well as the application process, visit our webpages at: qmul.ac.uk/international
Welcome to the School of Economics and Finance
Skyline of Doha, Qatar
International student case study: Mishma Abraham (front, centre), Qatar Environmental Science BSc, 2017 Why did you come to study at QMUL? One of the main reasons I chose to study at QMUL was the fact that it was part of the Russell Group. It was also highly ranked among the universities in London for environmental science. I felt it would be a great place for me as an international student as it has a very diverse student population with students and staff from more than 155 countries. What do you enjoy most about the Environmental Science Degree? I’ve enjoyed all of the lectures so far as they cover a range of topics, which makes the degree itself broad and diverse. My modules include those from the School of Geography and also from the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences. However, if I were to choose the most enjoyable part of my first year, it has to be the field trip to Scotland. I had an amazing time walking through the pine forests, climbing through the snow and wading through streams. The field trip was also a good opportunity to get to know the staff and students better. How has it been studying at QMUL as an international student? It feels great to be a part of this university and being able to make friends of various nationalities (Welsh, Afghan, Somali, Polish, Colombian and Italian, just to name a few). QMUL also provides free in-sessional courses that help improve reading and writing skills which I found quite useful. There are also a number of societies you can join so you never get bored or miss home.I enjoyed the International Fair last year where there were a number of stalls representing different countries with cultural displays and food items. www.geog.qmul.ac.uk 33 geog.qmul.ac.uk 33
Get involved
Queen Mary University of London Students’ Union’s (QMSU) Volunteering scheme offers students fun and highquality placements which enable them to have new experiences, discover and develop key transferable skills, enhance employability, meet new people and make a difference to the local community. With a wide range of opportunities available in charities and non-profit organisations throughout the local area and across London, there is something to suit all interests and availabilities: one-day volunteering, volunteering placements, student-led volunteering groups, among others. Students who volunteer can also benefit from training and development opportunities, networking contacts, and rewards and recognition. The QMSU’s Volunteering service is open to all students, is available all year round and is completely free of charge. Visit: qmsu.org/volunteering/ to browse current volunteering opportunities or email su-volunteering@qmul.ac.uk with any questions.
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Rosy Smith, Geography BA, 2012 - Centre Leader and Primary FOCUS Manager at IntoUniversity, Bow
There are so many aspects I enjoyed about studying geography at QMUL - including the links the department had with the local community. Volunteering was an important part of university for me – it was fun, rewarding and inspiring and I would advise everyone to take part – there is something for everyone! Alongside my studies I was a volunteer mentor, was involved with a community housing project and an International Development charity, and also signed up for several one-day volunteering opportunities. I was involved in things I never thought would be possible like going to board meetings with the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games and teaching a class of 40 Tanzanian school children. I’m now employed at IntoUniversity, an educational charity that works with young people in order to raise aspirations and help young people to achieve. I would not have got my job without my volunteering experiences. The range of experiences taught me many different skills and allowed me to apply learning in the real world.
Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) Ambassador training programme Students from QMUL Geography have the opportunity to work with the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) to become Geography Ambassadors in schools. The scheme is designed to take the knowledge and passion of geography students and graduates and enthuse the next generation to study geography. It also provides excellent skills and training for the student. rgs.org/ambassadors
Geography ambassadors The School of Geography has its own team of ambassadors on hand to greet students, parents and teachers at a range of open events that we hold throughout the year. The ambassadors are current undergraduates studying across our range of programmes and their job is to introduce you to our School and give you a glimpse of what studying at QMUL is like. Ambassador work is paid for by the School and gives our students an opportunity to develop skills in communication, organisation and liaising with colleagues across the university. geog.qmul.ac.uk 35
Geography Society
There are more than 180 societies and sports clubs at QMUL and the School of Geography is proud to have its own Geography Society – GeogSoc. Run by a committee of our students, GeogSoc organises both academic and social events such as nights out, special guest speakers and charity fundraising among much else. All students in the School of Geography are encouraged to join and it’s a great way to get to know fellow students across the year groups and degree programmes. 36 geog.qmul.ac.uk
Highlight of 2016 In 2016, GeogSoc’s membership has doubled with members particularly enjoying our free pizza party launch and dissertation forum. We are also looking forward to hosting Gender & Equality Week on campus. @QMULGeogSoc www.facebook.com/groups/ qmulgeographysociety
GeogSoc Committee 2015/16 L-R: Olivia Banfield, Alice Green, Adam Packer, Corey Isolda, Chipo Meke. geog.qmul.ac.uk 37
Meet some of the team
Research in the School of Geography is organised into four themes, offering you the chance to tap into a broad range of expertise during your studies. Research feeds directly into our teaching and the Independent Geographical Study (dissertation) in the final year of study is your opportunity to conduct indepth research into a particular chosen area.
Professor Alastair Owens I am a historical geographer working on nineteenth and early-twentieth-century Britain. I research a range of topics including wealth and inequality; home, family and material culture; and philanthropy and welfare provision. I have a particular interest in Victorian London, which is also a core focus of my teaching interests and expertise. Teaching a module about the Victorian metropolis provides the opportunity to explore the city on foot or to visit and work with my friends and colleagues in various London museums. Fieldwork is central to much of my teaching – I also lead a second and third year option module which includes a week-long trip to the fascinating North American city of Boston. 38 geog.qmul.ac.uk
Dr Kavita Datta I am a development geographer and my recent research has focused on transnational migration from the Global South to the North. This interest has been developed in a series of projects investigating transnational migration to the global city of London, exploring how and why migrants have come to dominate low-paid work; the financial practices of new migrant communities; and the scale and scope of migrants’ charitable networks in post-recessionary London. Teaching development geography provides an opportunity to challenge prevalent perceptions of the Global South as places and people in need of external development interventions. Instead, I explore how development futures in relation to poverty, urbanisation and the economy must be understood from the everyday lived realities of the Global South. These themes are developed in a week-long visit to Mumbai, a city in which extreme wealth and poverty are dramatically juxtaposed.
Dr Simon Carr My research focuses on the interactions between climate, glaciers and landscape over short to long timescales. I use innovative microscopic analysis of sediments to explore the dynamics of past and present-day glaciers. Having seen the dramatic changes in glaciers during the past 20 years, I also work on the climate sensitivity of small mountain glaciers. To me, geography focuses on the communication of science to a wider audience, and I am therefore interested in the concept of the Anthropocene: the geological period in which humans have become the major agent of landscape change. I teach first and second year students about Earth surface processes and past environmental change, especially the relationships between glaciers and climate change, and the archive of past glaciation. With third years, I examine the science and politics of climate change, focusing on how individuals, groups and societies respond to perhaps the greatest challenge facing humanity.
Professor Geraldene Wharton I’m a fluvial geomorphologist and my research focuses on how aquatic vegetation affects the movement of fine sediments and sediment-bound contaminants in rivers. I work with environmental engineers and ecologists as part of several international research groups combining fieldwork with lab-based studies and numerical modelling. I am conducting research to inform river restoration projects too and this involves collaboration with national agencies and groups such as the Environment Agency, River Trusts, and the Canal & River Trust. My teaching draws on 30 years of research on rivers, and students are introduced to current policy and practice in river restoration and integrated catchment management. My classes are interactive with frequent opportunities for discussion and debate. Site visits to river restoration schemes allow students to get first-hand knowledge of restoration design and develop an appreciation of the challenges and benefits of restoring rivers.
For a full list of staff specialisms see page 50. geog.qmul.ac.uk 39
Accommodation
Queen Mary has one of the largest residential campuses in London at Mile End, as well as accommodation at our Whitechapel campus, only 15 minutes by tube to Oxford Street, Covent Garden and the West End. Living on campus is fun, safe and convenient – not to mention a great way to experience London’s vibrant East End. Applying for our accommodation Once you accept your place to study here, full details on how to apply for halls will be automatically sent to you. QMUL housing is very popular and we suggest you apply as early as possible. Visit: residences.qmul.ac.uk/college/ qmaccommodation/ For housing deadlines and eligibility, visit: residences.qmul.ac.uk/college/application Living off campus Renting private accommodation off-campus is a popular choice for many students. The vast majority of second and third-year students - and even some first-years - prefer the independent lifestyle offered by sharing flats or houses with friends. We provide a range of advice and information to help you to find a convenient and affordable place to stay, including an online listing of privately owned accommodation available for rent. Much of this accommodation is in east or north-east London, within easy walking or commuting distance of Mile End.
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Single sex housing We offer some single sex flats in residences that share bathroom facilities. What is my accommodation likely to cost? Here are some guideline housing prices – the prices quoted are for the academic year 2016-17. Residential fees are payable termly in advance: • Mile End residences – rents for single rooms range from £127 (non-ensuite) - £170 (ensuite) per week, including all utility costs, insurance and Wi-Fi. Current prices can be found at: residences.qmul.ac.uk/college/fees • Privately rented accommodation – student rents in the local area in shared flats and houses typically range from £110 - £160 per week. There are also a number of privately run student halls in the area, rents in these purpose built developments reflect the very high standards (most being self-contained studios) and range from between £215 - £370 per week. Alternative housing options We can provide specialist advice on a range of alternative housing including: renting a local room or flat, a room in a privatively built hall of residence or choosing a homestay or short-stay option (which provides greater flexibility). For further information, guidance and prices, visit: residences.qmul.ac.uk/alternative For all accommodation queries, contact us on: Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 6474 email: residences@qmul.ac.uk
France House hall of residence by Regent’s canal on the Mile End campus.
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QMUL student services and support
There is a wide range of advice and support available to all Queen Mary students to help everyone get the most out of their time here with us and achieve their full potential. From financial advice to health services, the Students’ Union to language support, there are teams on hand to advise and support throughout your degree. A full list can be seen in the QMUL undergraduate prospectus, but services include: Advice and support… a range of services is available across our campuses including disability and dyslexia support, residences, welfare support, student health services and chaplaincy services. A personal tutor… is there for you to discuss your academic progress and guide you throughout your degree. Financial support... QMUL offers bursaries and scholarships in a range of subject areas. To find out more visit: qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/ feesandfunding/bursaries or email bursaries@qmul.ac.uk. The Language Centre… gives you the opportunity to learn a language and so enhance your employment prospects. It can also help you with your studies if English is not your first language. Students can apply for language bursaries to take a non-credit bearing module in their second or third years.
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Libraries… are self-service meaning that staff have more time to help you find what you need and to offer expert advice on QMUL’s collections. You will also have access to the University of London’s central library of more than two million books, periodical and eResources at Senate House in Bloomsbury. Qmotion… is Queen Mary’s health and fitness centre, equipped with a range of exercise machines and weights. It offers a womensonly area and lots of classes such as yoga and spinning. There’s a squash court and sports hall on campus, as well as a swimming pool nearby. QMSU… as well as becoming home to a wide range of societies – including a Geography Society – sports clubs, activities and social events, the Students’ Union offers an Academic Advice service of help and representation on a number of academic welfare issues. Student support officers… can give you additional advice and support with your studies in your department. Word-smiths on hand...with free tutorials from one of our Royal Literary Fund Writing Fellows to increase your skills with a professional writer. Read more about the support services available at: qmul.ac.uk/studentlife
The Queen Mary Students’ Union offers more than 200 societies and sports clubs. Follow them on Twitter @QMSU. geog.qmul.ac.uk 43
Festival of Geography
So you’ve applied for your degree and been offered a place to study at our School of Geography…what do you do next? Look out for an invite to one of our special post-offer open days – or Festivals of Geography! Launched in 2015, the events give students ‘a day in the life’ experience of Geography at QMUL. Each Festival – usually taking place on a week day in February/March – offers the chance to meet staff and students and get a flavour for some of the subject areas for which we are world-renowned. Taster lectures The Festival is a celebration of our subjects – from human geography right through to environmental science, the spectrum of research specialisms among our staff is unique. From globalisation, migration and development to rivers, fossils, contaminated landscapes and more, taster lectures and lab sessions are devised to introduce you to the whole new world of degree-level study.
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Info fair At lunchtime, visitors and their parents can browse an info fair where staff from all over the university come together to provide details about everything from studying abroad to accommodation, tutorial support to Students’ Union clubs and activities, volunteering to careers and employment as well as student finance, advice and counselling. The subjects are split into four ‘islands’ – Learning, Living, Engaging, and Moving On – while admissions staff are on hand to answer any last-minute queries about your application. It’s a great opportunity to get all your questions answered. Meet the students Guests are guided around the campus by the School’s very own Ambassadors. As current students, they give visitors an insight into what it’s like to join the School, offering their own experiences with lectures and coursework, fieldwork and research as well as what it’s like to move away from home and, of course, why London is a fantastic place to be a student. Hundreds of students travelled to our Mile End campus from all over the UK for the Festivals of Geography in 2015 and 2016; if you’d like to see more, visit our Flickr page: flickr.com/photos/qmulgeog
We hope to see you in 2017!
Festival of Geography 1. River Lab 2. Centre for Micromorphology 3. Info fair in the Octagon 4. River scientist Dr Gemma Harvey 5. Head of School, Professor Alison Blunt 6. Applicants at the info fair 7. Citizens UK’s Yasmin Aktar 8. Graduate Nick Hajdu
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Festival of Geography
“I firmed my offer as soon as I received it because I had fallen in love with the course, fieldwork, location and opportunities that the university would give me. After coming to the Festival of Geography, I realised everyone there was friendly and helpful, the atmosphere was a joy and the course was exactly as I had expected, as well as the lecturers being amazing. I just wanted to say thank you all for putting on such an amazing and useful day!� Prospective student/Festival of Geography attendee
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“Finding the right course and university for you is not an easy task so we want to give our applicants the chance to get a real day-inthe-life feel for QMUL Geography. The Festival of Geography is a celebration of what we do - our staff are passionate about their research and teaching and are world-leading in their work� Professor Alison Blunt, Head of School
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The Queens’ Building at Mile End.
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Visit us, open days, applications and resources for teachers Meet the team
So, you think you might want to join the School of Geography, or maybe you are just intrigued to see what studying at Queen Mary would be like? The next thing to do is to arrange to come along and meet the team, chat to our current students and explore the facilities at QMUL. There are open days in the summer and autumn, and we also take part in the University of London’s Taster Day programme each summer. All of these activities will be advertised on our website geog.qmul.ac.uk
Applications
For all full-time higher education programmes in the UK, you must apply online at ucas. com. The institution code for QMUL is Q50. Full instructions are available, along with downloadable help guides, on UCAS’s website. There are three types of applicants: 1. Students at a school or college registered with UCAS All UK schools and colleges (and many establishments overseas) are registered with UCAS to manage their students’ applications. Advice is available from your teacher or a careers adviser at your school or college. You will fill in an online application and submit it to a member of staff. After checking your details, and having added the academic reference, your school or college submits the completed application online to UCAS. You will pay online using a credit card or debit card. You may also be able to pay through your school or college. 2. Independent applicants in the UK Other UK applicants who are not at school or college apply online via UCAS independently. You are responsible for paying the application fee, for obtaining and attaching the academic reference and for submitting the application.
3. International applicants outside the UK (EU and worldwide) Except for those whose school or college is registered with UCAS, European and international students will apply through UCAS online independently. Advice is available from British Council offices, your school or college or one of our overseas representatives.
Contact us
School of Geography, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK Tel: +44 (0) 20 7882 8168 email: geogadmissions@qmul.ac.uk geog.qmul.ac.uk Twitter: @QMULGeography
Resources for teachers
The School of Geography at Queen Mary is host to the Geographical Association’s (GA) East London Branch. Launched in 2014, there are events each semester that offer teaching staff and A-level students the opportunity to come along and get a subject update on issues at the heart of the curriculum. The GA is a UK-based subject association with the charitable objective of furthering geographical knowledge and understanding through education. It supports teachers, students, tutors and academics at all levels of education through journals, publications, training events, projects, websites and by lobbying government about the importance of geography. If you would like further details on the activities of the GA East London branch, please contact eastlondon-ga@qmul.ac.uk
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Academic staff
Lisa Belyea BSc (Carleton) MSc (Waterloo) PhD (London) Professor of Biogeosciences Spatiotemporal dynamics of ecosystems; carbon cycling; ecohydrology; peatlands
Fran Darlington-Pollock BA MSc (Sheffield) PhD (Leeds) Lecturer in Human Geography Health inequality; ethnicity and place; migration and residential mobility
Alison Blunt BA (Cambridge) MA PhD (University of British Columbia) Professor of Geography and Head of School Home, migration and the city; museums; feminist and postcolonial geographies
Kavita Datta BA (Botswana) PhD (Cambridge) Reader in Human Geography Transnational migration; migrant remittance and philanthropic giving; geographies of finance; gender and development
James Brasington BSc (Bristol) PhD (Cambridge) Professor of Physical Geography Numerical modelling and remote sensing of rivers
Angela Gurnell BSc PhD DSc (Exeter) Professor of Physical Geography Ecohydrology and biogeomorphology
Tim Brown BA PhD (Portsmouth) Senior Lecturer in Human Geography Critical approaches to urban public health; global health and security Simon Carr BSc PhD (London) Senior Lecturer in Geography Glaciers and climate change; sedimentology; micromorphology and 3D x-ray tomography Peter Congdon PhD (London) Research Professor of Quantitative Geography and Health Statistics Quantitative analysis of spatial data; geographic inequalities in health; spatial demography; spatial epidemiology
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Gemma Harvey BSc (Liverpool) PhD (Nottingham) Senior Lecturer in Physical Geography River science Alex Henshaw BSc PhD (Nottingham) Lecturer in Physical Geography Fluvial geomorphology Kate Heppell BSc (Bristol) MSc DIC (London) DPhil (Oxford) Reader in Physical Geography Hydrological and biogeochemical interactions
Kerry Holden, BA MRes PhD (London) Lecturer in Geography and ESRC Future Research Leader Fellow Science and technology studies; global health; development
Emily Lines MSci (London) MRes (York) PhD (Cambridge) Lecturer in Environmental Science Forest ecology; remote sensing; modelling; terrestrial carbon cycle
David Horne BSc MSc (London) PhD (Bristol) FLS Professor of Micropalaentology Quaternary climate and environmental change
Caron Lipman BA (Leeds) MA PhD (London) Lecturer in Human Geography Religion and belief; heritage and memory; home and belonging
Regan Koch BSc MScEd (Kansas) MSc PhD (UCL) Lecturer in Human Geography Public space; urban sociality and collective culture; representing and imagining cities Ashok Kumar BA (Wisconsin) MSc (LSE) PhD (Oxford) Leverhulme Trust Early Career Fellow Global production networks; capital-labour relations; financialisation; workers’ bargaining power; cities; social movements Simon Lewis BSc PhD (London) Reader in Quaternary Science Quaternary stratigraphy; sedimentology and geoarchaeology
Sven Lukas MSc (Bochum) PhD (St Andrews) Reader in Quaternary Sedimentology Cold regions: sedimentary processes, landforms, palaeoclimate and numerical (OSL) dating Jon May BA (Cambridge) PhD (London) Professor of Geography, Deputy Dean for Research (Humanities and Social Sciences) and Director of the Doctoral College Homelessness; food-banking; welfare reform; urban marginality Cathy McIlwaine BA MA (Liverpool) PhD (London) Professor of Geography Development; gender; urban violence; international migration; Latin America
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Academic staff
Konstantinos Melachroinos DTP (University of Thessaly, Greece) PhD (London) Lecturer in Geography Regional economic development and policy Catherine Nash BA PhD (Nottingham) Professor of Human Geography Feminist cultural geography; geographies of identity and relatedness Miles Ogborn BA PhD (Cambridge) Professor of Geography Global historical geographies; historical geographies of modernity
Alastair Owens BA PhD (London) Professor of Historical Geography and Deputy Dean for Taught Programmes (Humanities and Social Sciences) Historical geographies of wealth and inequality; family, home and material culture; London since 1800 Gale Raj-Reichert BSc MA (Michigan) PhD (Manchester) Lecturer in Economic Geography Labour governance; global production networks; Global South Simon Reid-Henry BA PhD (Cambridge) Reader in Geography Geopolitics; ‘vital’ geographies; geographical biography
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Adrian Smith BA MA PhD (Sussex) Professor of Human Geography and Dean for Research (Humanities and Social Sciences) Economic geography; globalisation and the global economy; Europe and North Africa
Philippa Williams BA MPhil PhD (Cambridge) Lecturer in Human Geography Citizenship, development and identity in India; India’s new economy; geographies of peace; material politics of transnational identities
Kate Spencer BSc MSc DIC PhD (Greenwich) Reader in Environmental Geochemistry Estuarine sediment geochemistry and fine sediment management.
Jane Wills MA (Cambridge) PhD (OU) Professor of Human Geography The geo-political economy of labour and the living wage; urban politics including community organising and localism
Stephen Taylor MA MPhil PhD (Cambridge) Senior Lecturer in Human Geography Critical geographies of global health, biomedicine and uneven development. Geraldene Wharton BSc (Sheffield) PhD (Southampton) Professor of Physical Geography Fluvial geomorphology and hydroecology
Kathryn Yusoff BA (Northumbria) MA (Bath Spa) PhD (London) Senior Lecturer in Human Geography Anthropocene; climate change and social theory; political aesthetics; feminist philosophy
Members of staff of the School of Geography at the School’s annual away day.
geog.qmul.ac.uk 53
Mile End campus Mile End Campus
For more detailed campus information, see: qmul.ac.uk/about/howtofindus Educational/Research
Residential
Facilities
ArtsOne
37
Albert Stern Cottages
ArtsTwo
35
Albert Stern House
Arts Research Centre
39
Beaumont Court
53
Bancroft Building
31
Chapman House
Bancroft Road Teaching Rooms
Chesney House 10
Peter Landin Building (Computer Science)
6
Engineering Building
15
G.E. Fogg Building
13
G.O. Jones Building
25
Geography Geography
26
Informatics Teaching Laboratories
41
Library
32
Law
36
Lock-keeper’s Cottage
42
Mathematical Sciences
4
Advice and Counselling Service
1
Housing Hub
48
Bookshop
22
43
Careers Centre
19
45
Clock Tower
20
Creed Court
57
CopyShop
56
France House
55
The Curve
47
Feilden House
46
Disability and Dyslexia Service
31
Hatton House
40
Drapers’ Bar and Kitchen
2
Ifor Evans Place
5
Joseph Priestley Building
Information
3
Lindop House
21
Lodge House
50
Lynden House
59
Maurice Court
58
Maynard House
44
Pooley House
60
Selincourt House
51
Varey House
49
27
63
Ground Café
33
The Hive
24
Electronic cigarettes permitted on outside spaces only. These premises are alarmed and monitored by CCTV; please call Security on +44 (0)20 7882 5000 for more information.
9
Infusion IT Services
19
Mucci’s
29
Occupational Health Service/ Student Health Service
28
Key Library/bookshop Fitness centre
19a
Octagon
Bar
17
Portering and Postal Services 12
The People’s Palace/Great Hall
16
Qmotion Health and Fitness Centre Sports Hall 7
Queens’ Building
19
Santander Bank
Temporary Building
61
Security
Coffee place Eatery Staff car park
62 38/54
Bicycle parking
St Benet’s Chaplaincy
23
Bicycle lockers
Students’ Union Hub
34
Student Enquiry Centre
19
Cash machine Smoking area / shelter
AREA
52
Village Shop No access between Geography Square and Bancroft Road before Westfield Nursery 8am and after 6.30pm Mon–Fri. and No.64 no longer in use. Can be used for other locations. NS-10/2014 64 No.14 Closed weekends. 18
Bancroft Road
The smoking of cigarettes or tobacco products are only permitted at designated smoking areas / shelters indicated on this map.
AREA
8
Canalside
Occupational Health and Safety Directorate
New Graduate Centre construction site Engineering Building construction site
Visitors who require further information or assistance should please go to the main reception in the Queens’ Building.
11
Bradwell Street 60
Portelet Road
Massingham St
Leatherdale Street
Moody Street Longnor Road
59 58
55
57
Holton Street
63 62 AREA
Bancroft Road
Grantley Street
Carlton Square
55 54
53
Mile End Hospital
52 51
48
Alderney Road
49
46
Geography Square
13
11
17
29
19a AREA
6
8
Godward Square
9
3 64
2 4 1
15
AREA
19
41
BL
44 43
42
AREA
Arts Quarter
15
40
33
16 24 23 20
West Gate
22
34
35
36
37 38
39
East Gate
Mile End Tube Station
Mile End Road Harford St
54 geog.qmul.ac.uk
32
25
15
2
Stepney Green Tube Station
Nuevo Burial Ground
45
The Curve
Library Square
18
10
Bancroft Road
Mile End Place
5
7
46
56
Westfield Way
18
47
31
26
61 12
28
Regent’s Canal
50
27 18
21
Terms and conditions 1 Rules and regulations The offer of, and acceptance of, a place at QMUL is made on the understanding that you undertake to observe the terms and conditions of our Academic Regulations and related policies. These cover, among other things, payment of fees, attendance at classes, submission of work, attendance at examinations, student discipline, complaints procedure, freedom of speech and equal opportunities policies. To read the Academic Regulations and related policies, visit: arcs. qmul.ac.uk/policy 2 Changes to our programmes QMUL will aim to deliver your programme so that it closely matches the way in which it has been described to you by QMUL in print, online, and/or in person. However, it is important to realise that in some circumstances we may change aspects of your programme. For example, staff changes, resource limitations and factors such as a change in the law or the level of demand for a particular programme or module may result in QMUL having to withdraw or change aspects of the programmes and/or student services described in this prospectus.
In the unlikely event that we discontinue a programme of study, or change it significantly before it begins, we will inform applicants holding an offer of a place at the earliest opportunity and will endeavour to offer a suitable alternative programme at QMUL. We will also ensure that these changes are reflected on our website as soon as possible. 3 Liability for damage to person or property QMUL does not accept responsibility or liability for any damage to students’ property, the transfer of computer viruses to students’ equipment, or personal injury to students caused by the misuse or unauthorised use of QMUL equipment, or owing to students not taking due care while on QMUL premises, or engaged in QMUL activities. 4 Accuracy of information in this prospectus QMUL has made reasonable efforts to ensure that the information provided in this prospectus is both helpful and accurate at the time of going to press. However, this information is subject to change over time. For this reason, it is important that you check the website for the most up-to-date information (qmul.ac.uk) or contact us using the details contained within the document. Applicants are strongly advised to check the QMUL Course Finder for up-to-date entry requirements before submitting their UCAS application: qmul.ac.uk/ undergraduate/coursefinder Read our terms and conditions in full at: qmul.ac.uk/ prospective/termsandconditions
Contact Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS qmul.ac.uk We would like to thank the students who took part in these photographs. Student and departmental photography by Jorge Estevao (jdestevao.com) and Jonathan Cole (www.JonathanColePhotography.com) and the School of Geography. Page 11, picture of the Geffrye Museum © Richard Davies Produced by Marketing and Communications Queen Mary University of London geog.qmul.ac.uk 55
For further information contact:
The School of Engineering and Materials Science School of Geography Queen Mary University of London Mile End Road, London E1 4NS 8735 Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 8168 sems-pgadmissions@qmul.ac.uk email: geogadmissions@qmul.ac.uk sems@qmul.ac.uk www.geog.qmul.ac.uk International students should contact the Admissions Office on: Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 5511 email: admissions@qmul.ac.uk www.qmul.ac.uk/international
Any section of this publication is available in large print upon request. If you require this publication in a different accessible format we will endeavour to provide this where possible. For further information and assistance, please contact: hr-equality@ qmul.ac.uk; Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 5585.
@QMULGeography
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