Why should I choose Birkbeck?

The Department of Geography, Environment and Development Studies is a great place to study.  Our interdisciplinary approach offers a unique understanding of how the physical and social sciences relate to each other.

Every year, hundreds of students choose to study with us, because:

Our evening study allows you to do more

• All of our courses, both part-time and full-time, are taught in the evening, between 6pm and 9pm.
• Our GEDS Department Office is open until teaching starts at 6pm.

You offer a highly respected distance learning qualification

• You can choose to study our MSc/PGDip/PGCert in Geographic Information Science by distance learning.
• This course is specifically designed for professionals working with spatial data to develop more advanced theoretical knowledge and high-level practical skills.

We are a unique institution

• Birkbeck is part of the University of London.
• We combine a high-quality research culture with courses specifically designed for students who have diverse backgrounds, activities and interests. The interaction between such a range of students means you can learn as much from each other as you do from our lecturers.

Our staff are experts

• Our academic staff are recognised experts in their fields and approach geography, environment and development studies in an innovative way within a vibrant research culture.

We provide the support you need

• In addition to lectures and seminars, we will allocate you a personal tutor who can provide you with one-to-one advice throughout the course of your degree.
• If you have a recognised disability or dyslexia, you can get support from our disability experts. Check out our full range of disability and dyslexia support.
• You will be able to use Birkbeck's wide range of student support and services while you are here.

You can get access to world-class libraries

• We are located in Bloomsbury in the centre of London and surrounded by many other University of London colleges and libraries.
• As a student here, you will have access to the College library and the University of London Library at Senate House, both of which are a short walk from our Department. The British Library is just a short distance away.

Our courses offer high-quality research-led teaching

• Since our foundation, we have achieved an enviable reputation as a centre of innovative scholarship, teaching and learning.
• Our general teaching strategy is to ensure that, as far as is practicable, staff should be able to teach to their research. This ensures that our students are introduced to cutting-edge debates about the subjects they study by teachers who are making a significant contribution to the field.

Our central London location is easy to get to

• Wherever you live or work in London, you’ll find it easy to get to us. Birkbeck is surrounded by tube and mainline rail stations, including Russell Square, Tottenham Court Road, Goodge Street, Euston and King’s Cross. Many bus routes pass down nearby Gower Street or go via Russell Square.
• You’ll find an extensive network of cycle routes leading to Birkbeck, plus ample parking facilities around the College for bicycles.
• See our interactive map of Birkbeck and the surrounding area.
• Use Transport for London's Journey Planner to plan your route.