In Part 1 of the programme, students follow a set of modules designed to introduce the main geographical regions of study, the key themes and issues of the programme, and the main concepts and methods used to explore them. This broad introduction is used as a ladder to access the more advanced studies encountered in Part 2 modules, enabling a greater depth of understanding and the development of abilities which can be applied to real-world situations, both in the workplace and the classroom. Lectures, seminars, workshops, field study, and individual and group project work, form the backbone of the teaching and learning. Fieldwork is an important element of the programme, with residential field programmes in the UK and Southern Europe. There is also an option to spend four months studying overseas, as part of a European Union cultural exchange programme.
Assessment consists of essays, project and fieldwork reports, oral presentations and examinations.