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Graduate (Taught)
Application code:L8UH
Department of Geography and Environment

MSc Human Geography and Urban Studies (Research)

Gain an understanding in contemporary geography and develop an appreciation of the methodological implications of theoretical developments.
Find out what it's like to study Geography at LSE from our master's students.

Overview

Introduction

This programme provides an understanding of the key themes of contemporary geographical thought and allows you to develop an appreciation of the methodological implications of such theoretical developments.

Human geography and urban studies are dynamic and pertinent areas of the social sciences, drawing together concerns with space, economy, society and the environment. In addition to understanding key geographical themes and methodology insight, you'll be able to develop a substantive field of research interest.

This programme will be of interest if you've studied geography or a related social science subject at undergraduate level and are now looking for a more focused introduction to human geographical research. It's designed as preparation for study at PhD level, as well as further training in a broad range of substantive geographical and environmental themes. It draws on the breadth of theoretical understanding, research expertise and practical experience in the department as well as the strength of LSE’s offering across the social sciences, allowing for learning in specialised courses elsewhere in the School.

Entry requirements

Upper second class honours degree (2:1) or equivalent in geography or social science.

Please select your country from the dropdown list below to find out the entry requirements that apply to you.

Overseas

English language requirements

The English language requirement for this programme is Standard. Read more about our English language requirements.

Competition for places at LSE is strong. So, even if you meet the minimum entry requirements, this does not guarantee you an offer of a place.

However, please don’t feel deterred from applying – we want to hear from all suitably qualified students. Think carefully about how you can put together the strongest possible application to help you stand out from other students.

Programme content

Year 1

You'll take courses to the value of four full units in total, made up of compulsory and optional courses, including one advanced research methods course.

Why study with us

Discover more about our students and department.

Meet the department

Our department is highly regarded both nationally and internationally – ranked second for Geography in the QS World University Rankings 2024.

Here at LSE, we offer a unique opportunity to study geography in a university with a worldwide reputation in the social sciences. We specialise in economic, urban and development geography, environmental social science and climate change, all with a strong emphasis on real-world applications.

Many of our academics are internationally renowned in their fields. You’ll find a good balance of experienced and younger academics in the department. Within the team, we’ve had three holders of the highly prestigious Philip Leverhulme Prize Fellowships for researchers under the age of 36.

Our research is interdisciplinary and international in its scope and we work closely with academics from several other departments at LSE. Teaching staff are active within the following research centres:

Based in the heart of London opposite Lincoln’s Inn Fields, the department offers a lively, welcoming and supportive community for students and staff.
Learn more about our undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD study opportunities, as well as our research.

Your application

Overview

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified prospective students. At LSE, we want to recruit students with the best academic merit, potential and motivation, irrespective of background.

We carefully consider each application and take into account all the information included on your application form, such as your:

  • academic achievement (including predicted and achieved grades)
  • statement of academic purpose
  • two academic references
  • CV.

See further information on supporting documents.

You may need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency. See our English language requirements.

This programme is available as part of an ESRC-funded pathway onto a PhD programme. The 1+3 scheme provides funding for a one year research training master's linked to a PhD programme and is designed for students who haven't already completed an ESRC recognised programme of research training. An application must be submitted for the relevant master’s programme, including a research proposal for the PhD aspect of the pathway. Applicants must also indicate their wish to be considered for the 1+3 pathway within their personal statement.

40
Applications
9
Intake
4:1
2023 Ratio

Fees and funding

The table of fees shows the latest tuition fees for all programmes.

You're charged a fee for your programme. At LSE, your tuition fee covers registration and examination fees payable to the School, lectures, classes and individual supervision, lectures given at other colleges under intercollegiate arrangements and, under current arrangements, membership of the Students' Union. It doesn't cover living costs or travel or fieldwork.

Home

£18,300

Home student fee (2025/26)

For this programme, the tuition fee is different for home and overseas students depending on their fee status.

Learning and assessment

How you learn

Graduate destinations

Overview

Many graduates from this programme go on to do PhD degrees, while others enter a wide variety of employment including consultancy, the public sector and education.

Further information on graduate destinations for this programme

Median salary of our graduate taught students 15 months after graduating:

£36,000

Top 5 sectors our students work in:

Government, Public Sector and Policy
Financial and Professional Services
Education, Teaching and Research
Real Estate, Environment and Energy
Consultancy
This data is drawn from the 2021/22 Graduate Outcomes Survey, run by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). Median salaries are calculated for respondents who are paid in UK pounds sterling and in full-time employment.

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