Geography Careers: 2025 Guide to Career Paths, Options & Salary
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Between 1948 and 2015, the American Association of Geographers reported a 1,077.31% rise in the number of individuals graduating with bachelor’s degrees in geography, a 394.9% raise for those graduating from master’s programs, and an even greater 1,629.41% increase for those graduating with doctorates (2017). This steady growth in interest in the field of geography can be attributed to the immense benefits it brings to humanity and the wealth of information, experiences, and opportunities it offers to those who devote their time to it.
Geography has come a long way since its traditional use for navigation and exploration. Today, it is a complex and diverse field that is used to analyze social and economic trends, better understand the environment, and inform decision-making processes. It is also used to develop strategies for resource management, map hazards, and assess the impacts of climate change. As the field develops and new technologies are introduced, geographers are playing an increasingly important role in improving the lives of people around the world.
This guide will provide prospective geographers with an understanding of what to anticipate when they pursue jobs in geography, such as earning degrees at a higher education institution that will open up possibilities in the field and what you can do to succeed in your profession. They will also be able to get an understanding of the rewards that come with taking this route, as well as the technical and non-technical abilities that they will need along the road, if they do this.
Geography Careers Table of Contents
- Why pursue a career in Geography?
- Geography Career Outlook
- Required Skills for Geography
- How can I balance a successful geography career with family responsibilities?
- What Emerging Technology Trends are Reshaping Geography Careers?
- How to Start Your Career in Geography
- What factors should I consider when choosing a geography degree program?
- How can online learning expedite my entry into the geography field?
- How can I finance my geography education?
- Can an accelerated bachelor's program fast track your geography career?
- How can I advance my career in Geography?
- Alternative Career Options for Geography
- How is remote sensing used in modern geography?
- What are the ethical considerations in geography research?
Why pursue a career in Geography?
There are two aspects to geography: humans and places. The liberal arts aspect focuses on the cultural, social, and political aspects of human lives in relation to their environment. The latter, on the other hand, centers on the spatial and temporal narratives of physical spaces.
The scope and technical skill requirements of geography make it a challenging field. Perhaps this is one reason why many students are drawn to it. Here are nine others:
1. Geography jobs will take you places, literally.
Geography jobs will not tie you to an office desk; most of your workdays will be spent working in the field. A degree in geography will allow you to travel and reach places that no other people have. This is the perfect career for you if you love adventure, nature, and the outdoors.
2. Geography will give you a different perspective about your place in the world.
With an education in geography, you will be able to look at the world through the lens of spatial thinking. It will change the way you interact with physical space and think about your place in the world. Having a theoretical background on concepts like patterns, movements, and relationships will allow you to understand your experiences better.
3. Geography will allow you to be an active participant in solving local and global environmental problems.
Geography graduates can obtain top executive positions in environment protection organizations. They have a chance to make a big impact on spreading environmental consciousness, stopping deforestation, and leading restoration and sustainability projects, to name but a few.
4. Geography will educate you about today’s climate crisis.
One in three Americans still cannot quite wrap their head around human-caused climate change (The Economist, 2021). Further, a survey by the Yale Program on Climate Change shows that three in ten still do not believe that climate change is happening. An education in geography will equip you with scientific information regarding climate change and give you the credibility among your peers or even a broader audience to spread this information. As a result, it is one of the popular entry-point to sustainability careers.
5. Geography will allow you to save human lives.
Geographers have extensive knowledge about disaster management. They are trained to respond to calamities and lead people through them. In fact, as we are now witnessing, geography is a key part of fighting the COVID-19.
6. Geography will allow you to save the lives of endangered species.
The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (2021) records more than 37,000 species nearing extinction. As conscious and thinking beings, it is a shared duty among humans to allow these species to survive and thrive in time. A huge part of that will depend on us creating a safe place for them. This is where geographers come in and take the lead. It is their job, especially those who specialize in natural resources and conservation, to protect the habitat of endangered species.
7. Geography will enhance your visual-spatial and naturalistic intelligence.
Courses in geography will allow you to strengthen and expand your visual and spatial knowledge and skills. These will also allow you to easily identify elements in your surrounding.
8. Geography will open many possible career paths for you to explore.
Experts say that career exploration matters. In this regard, the scope of geography is advantageous. It will allow for the development of your personal and professional life. You may be able to expand the number of fields you can work in by continuing to take on higher degrees in geography.
9. Geography will allow you to gain economic stability.
The geography career salary can be competitive. Industries are willing to pay a huge amount for the expertise of geographers. The federal executive branch in the U.S., for instance, pays geographers an average of $92,390 yearly.
Geography Career Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projected a decrease in employment for geographers between the years 2019 and 2029, however, the COVID-19 pandemic might just turn the tables. An invisible enemy has made us all think in terms of space and proximity. Here and now and in the after, geographic concepts populate our minds and will continue to reside therein. Geography will have its place in the world, for sure. Further, other geography careers will turn out quite well according to BLS projections. Below is a closer look.
Required Skills for Geography
In a study published in The Professional Geographer, Solem, Cheung, and Schlemper (2008) came up with a list of skills most demanded in the workplace according to professional geographers. Below are the top 5 technical and non-technical skills according to that study.
Essential Skills for Geographers
- Spatial Thinking. This is the cornerstone of geography. Students must possess this skill to pass classes, get a degree, and be successful in this field.
- Interdisciplinary Perspective. Students must be able to recognize how humans shape space and vice versa. They must be able to determine, analyze, and manage the factors involved in this process.
- Geographic Information System. Geography students must be thoroughly acquainted with this technology, given its extensive use in their field.
- Cartography. All geographers must have a basic understanding of mapping, whether or not they intend to specialize in cartography. This is a foundational course, which they are expected to take and excel at.
- Field Methods. Both in school and the workplace, geographers will experience working in the field. To get the best out of this experience, they must know how to use field-based data collection methods, such as sampling, measurement, and surveying.
General Skills for Geographers
- Time Management. In a survey by O*NET Online, half of the geographers reported working 40 hours a week and the other half reported working more hours than that. Time management is essential to maintaining a work-life balance in this field.
- Writing. Geographers will need to write many technical reports throughout their careers. They also need to publish their research in academic journals and so they must know how to write really well.
- Critical Thinking. Professionals in geography must be critical thinkers. They must know what questions to ask and how to lay out a step-by-step plan to solve the problem.
- Problem-solving. Geographers must be able to identify and solve problems quickly, especially during emergencies that they may be in charge of. They must be able to determine the available options, weigh them, and decide based on the probable consequences.
- Computer and Technology. Geographers will work with software programs and technological equipment in acquiring, analyzing, and encoding data. They keep themselves up-to-date with emerging technologies to remain relevant in the job market.
How can I balance a successful geography career with family responsibilities?
In today’s dynamic job market, professionals often seek opportunities that accommodate both career growth and family life. Flexible education paths, such as accredited online programs, allow aspiring geographers to develop industry-relevant skills while managing personal commitments. Emphasizing time management, remote collaboration, and adaptive learning strategies can bridge the gap between professional ambitions and family needs. For instance, exploring options like the best online degrees for moms can provide a structured yet flexible approach to advancing a career in geography without compromising family responsibilities.
What Emerging Technology Trends are Reshaping Geography Careers?
The digital evolution in geographic sciences is driving innovation in data collection, analysis, and visualization. Advanced tools such as artificial intelligence, machine learning algorithms, and high-resolution satellite imagery are increasingly used to model climate phenomena and urban growth patterns. Additionally, technologies like drone-based mapping and IoT sensors facilitate real-time spatial data acquisition, enhancing decision-making processes across sectors. Professionals can bolster their expertise by exploring targeted training opportunities, including certificate programs that pay well, to stay at the forefront of these developments.
How to Start Your Career in Geography
An associate or bachelor’s degree is the ideal first step if you are interested in geography careers. In the following sections, the best geography jobs that one may be able to take on with these degree types will be discussed.
What can I do with an Associate’s Degree in Geography?
Surveying and Mapping Technicians
Fifty-nine percent of surveying and mapping technicians work in architectural, engineering, and related services (BLS, 2021). Under the supervision of surveyors, they go to sites to help conduct a survey. They are expected to know how to operate surveying instruments and work with computers for data entry.
Median Annual Salary: $53,458
Environmental Science and Protection Technicians
Majority of environmental science and protection technicians (24%) work in the industry of management, scientific, and technical consulting services (BLS, 2021). Their job involves mostly fieldwork. They collect samples and prepare reports for scientists and specialists.
Medial Annual Salary: $44,940
Geological and Hydrologic Technicians
Employment for geological and hydraulic technicians is expected to grow faster than average at 5% (BLS, 2021). They work with engineers and scientists in laboratories and fields. Their tasks involve mainly operating equipment, gathering and analyzing samples, and recording data.
Median Annual Salary: $59,150
What can I do with a Bachelor’s Degree in Geography?
Conservation Scientist
Conservation scientists are protectors of the environment. They observe, monitor, and collect data about natural resources. They also help in developing and maintaining policies that help the environment thrive.
Median Annual Salary: $55,305
Cartographer
Cartographers collect and examine data for map-making. They also analyze and update existing maps and charts for accuracy. Their job allows us to understand and make sense of the physical space around us. It allows us to plan around these spaces for inhabitation, emergency response, and national security, among others.
Medial Annual Salary: $57,045
Environmental Scientists and Specialist
Environmental scientists and specialists are heavily involved in saving our dying world. They are the ones who point and teach us about the existing problems and offer solutions for fixing them. Given the enormity of environmental issues we are facing today, it is not surprising that we will need 7,100 more people to handle this job between the years 2019 and 2029 (BLS, 2021).
Medial Annual Salary: $62,563
Can you get a Geography job with just a certificate?
Unfortunately, no. Geographers typically hold at least a bachelor’s degree. Further, more than 4 in 10 geographers hold a master’s degree (BLS, 2021). Getting only a certificate will put you at a serious disadvantage in the job market. Many employers will look only among degree holders for this position due to its technicality. However, a certificate in geography can help you during the admission process in postsecondary degree-granting institutions. It will also hold a level of credit in your curriculum vitae when accompanied by a degree.
What factors should I consider when choosing a geography degree program?
When evaluating geography degree programs, consider curriculum alignment with current industry trends and technological advancements. Assess the availability of hands-on experiences, such as fieldwork and research projects, which are crucial for practical learning. Accreditation, qualified faculty, and industry connections also play key roles in shaping future career opportunities. In addition, explore flexible scheduling and fast-track options, including accelerated college degree, to efficiently meet your educational and professional objectives.
How can online learning expedite my entry into the geography field?
Online education now provides accelerated pathways for acquiring foundational geographic expertise and technical competencies. These programs leverage cutting-edge virtual labs and collaborative projects to mirror hands-on experiences, allowing students to efficiently master data analysis, spatial reasoning, and remote sensing applications. Adopting a competency-based approach, many institutions offer fast-track associate degree programs that shorten the time-to-career without sacrificing academic quality. Explore innovative options like "How fast can you get an associate's degree online?" to gain a competitive edge in an evolving job market.
How can I finance my geography education?
Balancing educational costs with career aspirations is essential for long-term success in geography. Evaluating available financial aid options—such as scholarships, grants, and federal loans—can ease the burden of tuition fees. Additionally, exploring alternative learning pathways, including accredited online programs like cheap online bachelors degree, may provide cost-effective entry points into the field. Prospective students should assess program accreditation, course delivery methods, and flexible payment plans to ensure the chosen option aligns with both budgetary constraints and professional goals.
Can an accelerated bachelor's program fast track your geography career?
Accelerated bachelor's programs in geography offer a streamlined educational experience that enables students to rapidly acquire essential theoretical knowledge and practical skills. These programs often integrate hands-on fieldwork, advanced analytical training, and opportunities for early industry networking, which are crucial for navigating today’s competitive job market. Enrolling in a bachelor's degree fast track program can minimize time-to-degree while ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to tackle real-world challenges and assume impactful roles in both traditional and emerging geography sectors.
How can I advance my career in Geography?
Advancing one’s career in geography typically involves taking a master’s or doctorate. As will be illustrated below, continuing higher education definitely pays off for geographers.
What can I do with a Master’s in Geography?
Urban and Regional Planners
A large percentage of urban and regional planners (72%) are local government employees (BLS, 2021). Together with public officials, they come up with plans for land use and development. They help make possible affordable housing, public transport improvements, and sustainable community development, to name a few.
Median Annual Salary: $75,950
Emergency Management Directors
Emergency management directors see to the administration of natural calamities, from preparatory stages to actual emergency response. They ensure that all equipment, resources, people, and facilities are ready to effectively and efficiently respond to calamities and other disasters. They are essential workers for the survival of communities during uncertain times. In 2019-2029, their employment is seen to grow by 5% (BLS, 2021).
Median Annual Salary: $76,250
Geopolitical Analyst
The main task of geopolitical analysts is to interpret how geopolitical factors affect different regions in a country and on a global scale. Given this data, they come up with strategies that serve the organizations or institutions where they belong. They are involved in creating local and especially international policies that have to do with territorial power.
Medial Annual Salary: $76,304
What kind of job can I get with a Doctorate in Geography?
Geoscientists
Geoscientists find themselves in a wide field, studying every physical aspect of the Earth. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021) enumerates the following types of geoscientists: (1) geologists, (2) geochemists, (3) geophysicists, (4) oceanographers, (5) paleontologists, (6) petroleum geologists, and (7) seismologists (BLS, 2021). The growth of employment in these job positions is faster than average at 5% (BLS, 2021).
Median Annual Salary: $93,580
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Manager
GIS managers direct all aspects of GIS activities and projects. They manage several employees, coordinate with other department heads and stakeholders, and report to top executives. Their job requires extensive knowledge of GIS equipment and software programs.
Median Annual Salary: $95,568
Natural Sciences Managers
Natural sciences managers lead a team of scientists in research and development projects. They manage resources, direct the production of products, oversee experiments, and communicate findings with top executives. By 2029, 3,400 more natural sciences manager positions will be open (BLS, 2021).
Medial Annual Salary: $137,940
Which certification is best for Geography?
Certifications are a great addition to one’s list of achievements and credentials. In this section, three of the best certification programs for geographers will be discussed.
The Certified GIS Professional (GISP) Certification
To get this certification you must take and pass The GISCI Geospatial Core Technical Knowledge Exam, which will measure your knowledge in the following areas:
- Conceptual Foundations
- Geospatial Data Fundamentals
- Cartography and Visualization
- Data Acquisition
- Data Manipulation
- Analytical Methods
- Database Design and Management
- Application Development
- Systems Design and Management
- Professional Practice.
A practice exam is available at the website of the GIS Certification Institute. Details of the application process, testing locations, and fees are also detailed on their website.
American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) Certification
This certification program offered by ASPRS is accredited by the Council of Scientific and Engineering Specialty Boards (CESB). It consists of several professional certification exams including:
- ASPRS Mapping Scientist
- ASPRS Mapping Technologist
- Certified Photogrammetrist
- Certified Mapping Scientist, Remote Sensing
- Certified Mapping Scientist, GIS/LIS
- Certified Mapping Scientist, Lidar
The Insights Professional Certification
This certification offered by the Insights Association is perfect for survey researchers. There are varying levels of examination that candidates may be eligible for depending on years of experience:
- IPC Principal (Three years)
- IPC Master (10 years)
- IPC Laureate (by invitation)
Alternative Career Options for Geography
Having an education in geography means having several transferrable skills. You may opt to take the following career paths if traditional geography careers do not work for you.
What else can a Geographer Do?
Market Research Analysts
Human geographers may take market research as a career option. Analysts in this field collect and interpret data to create or improve company products and services. BLS (2021) reports an 18% increase in employment in this job position between the years 2019 and 2029.
Medial Annual Salary: $57,214
Atmospheric Scientists
One great way to expand one’s realm of expertise is to move from geography to atmospheric science, from earth to sky. Given already existing knowledge on different regions of the Earth, geographers can certainly take it to this next level. They will be wise to do so as there is a projected growth of 6% in the employment of atmospheric scientists (BLS, 2021).
Annual Median Salary: $67,000
Postsecondary Teachers
Postsecondary teachers design and implement lesson plans, instructional materials, and assessments for their students. Geographers may choose this path for full-time or part-time employment to share their expertise with future professionals in their field. As of 2019, there are 4,800 geography teachers in America (BLS, 2021).
Median Annual Salary: $41,000
How is remote sensing used in modern geography?
Remote sensing is a technology that uses satellite or aerial imagery to collect information about the Earth's surface. It plays a crucial role in modern geography by offering insights and data that can be applied across various fields. Here’s how remote sensing is utilized in geography:
- Environmental Monitoring: Remote sensing allows geographers to monitor environmental changes, such as deforestation, desertification, and the melting of polar ice caps. By analyzing satellite images over time, they can track the rate of these changes and develop strategies for conservation and mitigation.
- Climate Change Analysis: Remote sensing provides valuable data on atmospheric conditions, sea levels, and land surface temperatures. This information is essential for studying the effects of climate change and predicting future environmental trends.
- Urban Planning and Development: Geographers use remote sensing to analyze land use patterns and urban growth. This helps in making informed decisions regarding infrastructure development, zoning, and sustainable urban expansion.
- Disaster Management: Remote sensing is instrumental in assessing the impact of natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods. It allows for the rapid identification of affected areas and supports emergency response efforts by providing accurate maps and data.
- Agricultural Monitoring: Remote sensing technology helps monitor crop health, soil conditions, and water usage. This information can be used to optimize agricultural practices, improve food security, and manage resources efficiently.
- Biodiversity and Conservation: Remote sensing enables geographers to track the habitats of endangered species and monitor biodiversity in various ecosystems. It helps in identifying critical areas for conservation efforts and detecting illegal activities like poaching or logging.
- Geological Surveys: Remote sensing data assists in identifying geological features and mineral deposits. It is widely used in resource exploration, such as mapping oil, gas, and mineral reserves.
What are the ethical considerations in geography research?
When engaging in advanced geospatial research, practitioners must navigate ethical dilemmas related to data privacy, community consent, and environmental justice. Robust ethical frameworks guide responsible data collection and interpretation, ensuring that research outcomes minimize bias and respect the interests of affected communities. Additionally, adhering to established guidelines from professional associations and institutional review boards helps balance technological innovation with social accountability. Prospective geographers should consider programs that integrate these ethical paradigms with technical expertise, such as the shortest doctoral programs.
Map Your Future in Geography
In an issue of The Geography Teacher, Helen Hazen notes in her study “Teaching COVID-19 Topics in a Geographic Framework" that “Geographic methods were integral to improving our understanding of the HIV pandemic, the origins and spread of avian flu and Ebola, and the potential role of the global airline network in the spread of SARS, among numerous other examples." As such, the field can also be instrumental in contextualizing unprecedented situations in the future. One such example is the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Geography is ideally placed to help students make sense of the pandemic, sitting as it does at a critical point of intersection between the physical and social world," the author concluded. This statement is true not only for students but for every one of us, as we face the seemingly unending distances that need to be put up to keep us safe. Geographic concepts guide our thinking as we ruminate where we are and when we are.
If you are still asking yourself what degree you should do, geography might just be one of your best options. Today and in the aftermath of the crisis, we need people who know how to map our relationships and our spaces.
Key Insights
- Rapid Growth in Geography Degrees: From 1948 to 2015, the number of graduates with degrees in geography surged significantly, indicating a growing interest and recognition of the field's importance.
- Diverse Applications of Geography: Modern geography extends beyond navigation and exploration to include analyzing social and economic trends, understanding environmental impacts, and informing decision-making processes.
- Field Work Opportunities: Geography careers often involve extensive fieldwork, offering professionals the chance to travel and explore various physical spaces and environments.
- Environmental Impact and Climate Crisis: Geographers play a crucial role in addressing environmental issues, including climate change, by providing scientific insights and leading sustainability projects.
- Disaster Management and Public Safety: Knowledge in geography is vital for disaster management, helping to mitigate the impacts of natural calamities and enhance public safety.
- Competitive Salaries and Job Stability: Careers in geography can offer competitive salaries, with many positions in government and private sectors providing substantial financial rewards.
- Skill Development: Key skills for geographers include spatial thinking, GIS proficiency, cartography, time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
- Educational Pathways: Advancing in geography often requires higher education, such as a master’s or doctorate degree, which can lead to specialized and higher-paying roles.
- Certifications Enhance Career Prospects: Obtaining certifications in GIS and other specialized areas can significantly boost a geographer's employability and career advancement.
FAQ
- What is geography? Geography is the study of the Earth's landscapes, environments, and the relationships between people and their environments. It involves both the physical properties of the Earth's surface and the human societies spread across it.
- Why should I pursue a career in geography? Pursuing a career in geography offers diverse opportunities to work in fields such as environmental conservation, urban planning, disaster management, and more. It allows you to make significant contributions to understanding and solving global and local issues.
- What are the job prospects for geography graduates? Job prospects for geography graduates are varied and can include roles such as cartographers, urban planners, environmental consultants, GIS specialists, and more. The demand for geographers is expected to grow in various sectors, particularly those related to environmental and urban planning.
- What skills are essential for a career in geography? Essential skills for a geography career include spatial thinking, proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), cartography, time management, critical thinking, problem-solving, and strong writing skills.
- What educational paths can I take to start a career in geography? Starting a career in geography typically involves earning an associate or bachelor’s degree in geography or a related field. Higher education degrees, such as a master’s or doctorate, are often required for advanced positions.
- Can I get a job in geography with just a certificate? While a certificate can provide foundational knowledge, most professional roles in geography require at least a bachelor’s degree. However, a certificate can complement a degree and enhance your job prospects.
- How can I advance my career in geography? Advancing in geography often involves obtaining higher education degrees and certifications in specialized areas such as GIS or remote sensing. Gaining practical experience through fieldwork and internships can also be beneficial.
- What are some alternative career options for geography graduates? Alternative career options for geography graduates include market research analysts, atmospheric scientists, and postsecondary teachers. These roles leverage the analytical and research skills developed through geography studies.
- What certifications are beneficial for a career in geography? Beneficial certifications for a career in geography include the Certified GIS Professional (GISP) Certification, American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) Certification, and Insights Professional Certification.
- What is the salary range for careers in geography? Salaries for geography-related careers vary widely. For example, environmental scientists and specialists earn a median annual salary of $73,230, urban and regional planners earn $75,950, and geoscientists earn $93,580. Higher-level positions such as natural sciences managers can earn significantly more, with median salaries around $137,940.
References:
- American Association of Geographers (2017). Long-term Trends in Degrees Conferred in Geography. Retrieved from http://www.aag.org/galleries/disciplinary-data/Longterm_trends_in_degrees_conferred_in_geography.pdf
- The Economist (2021). A third of Americans deny human-caused climate change exists. Retrieved from https://www.economist.com/graphic-detail/2021/07/08/a-third-of-americans-deny-human-caused-climate-change-exists
- Hazen, H. (2020). Teaching COVID-19 Topics in a Geographic Framework. The Geography Teacher, (17)2, 33-43. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1080/19338341.2020.1764375
- O*NET Online (n.d.). Geographers. Retrieved from https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/19-3092.00
- Payscale (n.d.). Average Geographer Salary. Retrieved from https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Geographer/Salary
- Solem, Cheung, & Schlemper (2008). Skills in Professional Geography: An Assessment of Workplace Needs and Expectations. The Professional Geographer (60)3: 356-373. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1080/00330120802013620
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021). Occupational Employment and Wages. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/oes/
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021). Occupational Handbook Outlook. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
