Major overview
Explore the connections between people, places and the environment and discover how geographers can contribute to a more sustainable future.
If you're passionate about the future of our communities and landscapes, this major will help you understand the complex challenges facing our world – from climate change and natural hazards to urbanisation, food security and changing communities.
You'll gain the practical and analytical skills to investigate these challenges, using methods such as interviewing, surveying, field observation, statistical analysis and demographic reporting. You'll also learn to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and digital mapping tools to analyse spatial data and understand patterns and change across places.
You'll put your learning into practice through fieldwork in Perth, Fremantle and the Wheatbelt and engage with organisations such as the Bureau of Meterology, Canning River Eco Education Centre and South East Regional Centre for Ubrna Landcare.
You'll also benefit from Curtin's connections with local communities, industry and research initiatives, including the Sustainable Livelihoods program, which works with communities in Papua New Guinea.
Geography is offered as part of the Bachelor of Arts. You can enhance your studies with a second major, specialisation or choose from a range of elective units that support your career goals.
Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information on units and course structure, visit our Handbook.
Why study at Curtin?
Learn from experts
Curtin has a strong history of teaching and research in human and physical geography, developed over 50 years. Drawing on this expertise, you'll develop knowledge and skills to help address current and future challenges.
Top 100
Curtin ranks in the top 100 universities for Geography in the Global Ranking of Academic Subjects, 2026.
In-demand skills
Learn to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and digital mapping tools to analyse spatial data and understand patterns and change across places.
How to study this major
You can study this major as part of any of the degrees below. A major is a set of eight or more units you complete as part of a degree, including at least two in your final year. The units may vary depending on the degree you choose.
Career outcomes
Geography opens doors to diverse job opportunities across a wide range of industries. Our graduates have gone on to work with organisations such as Landgate, Main Roads, CSIRO and social and environmental consultancies.
Career examples
- Landscape / natural resource manager
- Regional development consultant
- Bushfire management consultant
- Community development officer
- Demographer
- Conservation / sustainability consultant
- Secondary school teacher*
- Spatial analyst
* Requires an additional teaching qualification
Industries
- Disaster management
- Education
- Environmental assessment
- Government (local, state and federal)
- International development
- Natural resource management
- Urban and regional planning
Why study at Curtin?
Learn from experts
Curtin has a strong history of teaching and research in human and physical geography, developed over 50 years. Drawing on this expertise, you'll develop knowledge and skills to help address current and future challenges.
Top 100
Curtin ranks in the top 100 universities for Geography in the Global Ranking of Academic Subjects, 2026.
In-demand skills
Learn to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and digital mapping tools to analyse spatial data and understand patterns and change across places.
Hear from our students
"Geography gave me skills that I can apply in many different careers – sustainability management, natural hazards, mapping technologies, field research, and topics like natural hazards and new and emerging geographical theory. Throughout my studies the teaching cohort have always been great academic mentors and have consistently shown genuine care."
Max Rocchi
Bachelor of Arts (Geography)
Course and career advice
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How to apply
This major is part of a degree. To apply, choose the degree you want to study and review its entry requirements. Then, prepare any required documents and submit your application before the deadline for your chosen intake.
After you receive and accept your offer, you can enrol in this major either at the start of your degree or later in your studies, depending on your course structure.
Choose your degree
To study this major, you'll need to apply one of the degrees listed below.
For full entry requirements, fees and information for international students, visit the course page.
Explore more
Find more resources to help you take the next step in your Curtin journey.