B.Sc. Geography

What does the Geography Bachelor's program include?
The degree program covers a wide range of topics, which are outlined below in the course structure overview:

• Subject-Specific Modules:
  Your studies begin with introductory and foundational modules, followed by advanced subject-specific courses. The program culminates in a teaching research module, including a study project where you'll apply your knowledge in a practical context.

• Integrative and Applied Geography:
  This area features interdisciplinary and hands-on courses, such as excursions and applied seminars, designed to connect theory with real-world practice.

• Methodology:
  A comprehensive methods curriculum prepares you for your final thesis, for work in research and practice-oriented projects, and for further academic study in a specialized Master’s program.

In addition to internships and your Bachelor's thesis, you will also choose a minor subject area. Currently, six options are available:

• Politics

• Sociology

• European Studies

• Environmental Systems Science

• Business Administration

• Economics

You can find an overview of the modules required for each of these minor subjects [here].

For detailed information, including examination regulations, module descriptions, credit points (CP), and recommended semester timelines, please refer to the official documentation [here].

The standard duration of the Bachelor’s program is 6 semesters (3 years) and comprises 180 credit points.

To support your academic planning, an exemplary study plan is available. It can help you organize your semesters and serves as a helpful guide during academic advising sessions.

Participation in several excursion days is compulsory during the course of the degree program (see curriculum). The Institute of Geography regularly offers various day or multi-day excursions, which are announced by e-mail. There is usually a registration period in which you can register for the excursions in Stud.IP. As a rule, only low costs are incurred for day excursions, while excursions lasting several days are subsidized by the institute to a certain extent.

After the excursion, the excursion leader sends the list of participants to the Geography office. Participation is documented there. Once all the excursion days required during the course of study have been completed, students can contact the secretary's office, stating the module assignments, for the purpose of booking.

In addition, it is possible to have a maximum of two excursion days credited by participating in several (fee-based) guided tours of the TERRA.vita Nature and Geopark. To do this, you register for the guided tours, fill out the docket and have the date, duration and topic of the guided tour confirmed by TERRA.guides. At least 6 hours of TERRA.vita guided tours must be completed for one excursion day to be credited. Please submit the  routing slip to the Geography office if you wish to receive credit.

The TERRA.vita calendar of events is available at the Institute of Geography, but you can also find it at
 https://www.geopark-terravita.de/
There are also guided tours by TERRA.vita cooperation partners that are also eligible for credit (e.g. Dyckerhoff quarry).
Events that are not related to geography (concerts, alpaca tours, etc.) are NOT eligible. If in doubt, you should clarify the possibility of credit transfer with the Geography Student Advisory Service BEFORE participating.

Are you eligible to apply?
To be admitted to the B.Sc. Geography program, you must meet the following requirements:

• A valid university entrance qualification (typically the Allgemeine Hochschulreife)

• Sufficient English language skills (at least level B2)

• Note: Additional requirements may apply to international applicants.

The program starts every winter semester and is currently admission-free—no numerus clausus (NC) applies.

You can find general information about the application, admission, and enrolment process here:   Application, admission and enrolment.

Detailed guidance on how to apply is also available under  Bachelor's degree programs (one subject) - admission-free.

General Information

•  Application period
•  Application portal
•  Admissions Office

What can you do with a B.Sc. in Geography?

As a graduate of the B.Sc. Geography program, you’ll be well equipped—both professionally and methodologically—for a successful start to your career or further academic study. This strong foundation is built through our research-based, project-driven, and practice-oriented courses.

Our graduates work across a wide range of fields. Whether you're interested in environmental or economic consulting, urban and regional planning, sustainable development, or academic research, your broad expertise and critical thinking skills will make you a valuable asset.

The Bachelor's degree also qualifies you for admission to a relevant Master's program—such as Osnabrück University's M.A. "Geography: Society – Environment – Future".

 Admission regulations, examination regulations and module descriptions