Key facts
UNE unit code: GEPL112
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - On Campus
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Australia is being influenced by far-reaching economic, demographic and social processes, many of which originate elsewhere in the globe.
In this unit you will explore the ways in which Australian urban and rural regions are being impacted by these global dynamics but also how rural and urban communities are interpreting and influencing these changes.
This unit investigates some of the most important issues currently confronting Australian society: the population/ecological (im)balance; the ongoing restructuring of key Australian industries such as mining, manufacturing and agriculture; the declining fortunes of country towns; and the social, economic and ecological issues facing Australian cities.
You will develop an understanding of the core concepts, techniques and practices of human geography through the unit’s exploration of how ‘real’ urban and rural places are made.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate how economic, demographic, social and ecological forces interact to influence the nature and location of human activity in Australia;
- demonstrate an understanding of the patterns of development that are occurring in Australia;
- recognise the impact of change at a variety of geographic scales; and
- demonstrate a proficiency in foundation level geographic, research and communication skills.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1: Library Quizzes | Yes | 10% | All offerings | Library exercise No. Words: 250 |
| Assessment 2: Essay/Report | Yes | 30% | All offerings | No. Words: 1500 |
| Assessment 3: Armidale Hospital practical exercise | Yes | 10% | All offerings | Students undertake a virtual walk around Armidale Hospital to gain a practical understanding of how and why businesses and industries locate where they do. No. Words: 250 |
| Assessment 4: Exam - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Supervised Exam. This online exam will be supervised via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. Students must pass the Assurance Task in order to pass the unit. No. Words: 2000 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Communicating in Geography and the Environmental Sciences
ISBN: 9780195576757
Hay, I., Oxford 4th ed. 2012
Text refers to: All offerings
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2026 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.
