Global Landscape Dynamics (F8051S)

15 credits, Level 5

Spring teaching

On this module, you’ll explore the geomorphological processes that shape Earth’s landscapes. You’ll investigate how these environmental changes, both natural and human-caused, underpin landscape vulnerability and sensitivity.

Geomorphologists study some of the world’s most visually striking landscapes. You’ll learn the key theoretical concepts they use to inform environmental management on engineering timescales.

You’ll examine how different landscapes respond to dynamic forces under a range of climates – from hot and dry to cold and wet extremes. The module covers the properties of earth surface materials, how they are shaped, and how they interact with hydrology and ecology.

The key themes include the dynamics of:

• slopes
• rivers
• coasts
• glaciers
• permafrost
• deserts
• landscapes developed in specific rock types, such as limestone and granite. 

By the end of the module, you’ll understand how both natural and human factors affect landscapes around the world.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 20 hours of contact time and about 130 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2025/26. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

Courses

This module is offered on the following courses:

• Geography BA
• Geography BSc
• Geography with a Language BA
• Geography, Sustainable Development and Climate Change BSc