A degree in Geography can pave the way for a rewarding career if the options are explored wisely. While Geography is a niche subject that can narrow your career options, the ones that you can bag can take you places, literally. Geography offers a very different approach to the problems of the world such as overpopulation, climate change, and urban overspill, among others. With a degree in Geography, you can work in the fields of Consulting, Planning, and Research, where you can use your expertise to collect and analyse data.
A degree in Geography entails the study of natural sciences, social sciences, and mathematics. In other words, Geography includes learning about the physical features of Earth as a planet and their effects on humans. Thus, if you have an interest in these subjects, then you must think of majoring in Geography.
However, it is important to note that you can choose your career path depending on whether you take up Physical Geography or Human Geography. Physical Geography is a natural science that focuses on the different elements of Earth. On the other hand, Human Geography refers to a social science dealing with problems within communities and cultures.
Career Options to Consider if You Have a Degree in Geography
1. Environmental Consultant
In your role as an Environmental Consultant, you have to identify the pollution levels in air, land, and water and their effect on the surroundings. You will be coordinating with government agencies and commercial establishments to resolve environmental problems such as waste disposal, green manufacturing, and sustainable energy practices. Moreover, your degree in Geography equips you to advise them on managing environmental disasters. You can also issue guidelines for these companies and minimise their impact on the environment.
2. Cartographer
A Cartographer develops various types of maps, charts, travel guides, spreadsheets, and diagrams. In addition, they restore old maps and historical documents.
Cartographers usually work in the fields of surveying, publishing, and conservation. In addition, cartographers have to be proficient in modern technologies such as digital mapping techniques and geographical information systems (GIS).
3. Surveyor
As a surveyor, you have to measure properties and draw boundaries during the planning stage. More so, you have to collaborate with construction workers, engineers, and map makers for discussing measurements, among other things. Surveyors may even have to provide legal help and compile legal documents.
4. Travel Writer
Armed with your degree in Geography, you can also apply for travel writer positions. Travel writers are responsible for devising travel-related content for websites, newspapers, journals, and other publications. In some cases, they even travel to different places to explore and write about them. Aside from that, their job entails writing reviews, profiles, and guides for hotels and various tourist attractions.
5. Market Researcher
Your degree in Geography enables you to become a market researcher. These professionals collect and analyse data, all of which help companies to make informed decisions.
Other than that, they analyse current market trends, competitors, and customer opinions. All this helps them to better understand markets and offer recommendations to help companies expand their business.
6. Town Planner
With a degree in Geography, you can become a town planner. The role of a town planner involves managing and developing villages, cities, towns, and rural districts. Moreover, you have to use your analytical skills and knowledge about the environment for redeveloping existing infrastructure. Besides that, you have to come up with innovative solutions to environmental problems. In addition, you’ve to make sure that the upcoming infrastructure conforms to the prevailing rules and policies.
Your job also involves catering to the needs of business houses and local communities while preserving natural and sustainable environments.
7. Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Officer
GIS officers have to apply their learning about the environment while working with computer systems, analytics, and data. You have to work on computerised data management systems called Geographic information systems (GIS) to gather and examine data. Thereafter, you have to apply the given data in different areas. These include the areas of transportation, telecommunications, gas, oil, meteorology, and defense. Also, you have to make decisions for the benefit of the environment.
8. Conservation Officer
If you’re passionate about the environment and want to make your passion a career, you should consider becoming a Conservation Officer. In addition to encouraging others to appreciate and preserve the environment, these professionals raise awareness among local communities about the ways of enjoying nature’s setting without causing any harm.
The role of a conservation officer is similar to a sustainable development officer, who has to promote the sustainability practices of their employer around local areas.
9. Emergency Managers
Emergency managers create plans to help regions prepare their responses to natural mishaps and disasters. As an emergency manager, you will have to discuss plans with public safety representatives and community leaders for keeping people safe during emergencies. In addition, you have to assist people and rebuild towns when they’re affected by disasters.
10. Economic Consultant
Economic consultants have to determine how companies can improve their ways of functioning. They research the different socio-economic, political, and financial aspects concerning organisations and then offer recommendations. Furthermore, they have to draft reports and plans to address the various economic troubles that plague companies, all of which you learn when working for your degree in Geography.
Conclusion
We have studied the various career roles that you can take up after studying geography. Besides the above-mentioned careers, you, with your degree in Geography, can become a teacher, landscape architect, park ranger, geospatial analyst, and real estate appraiser—to name a few more career options. You should choose your career path based on your interests. If you’re confused about which career to choose, then consider exploring career coaching and its need for students.
There are a host of career counselling online options that help you make the right decision with your degree in Geography.
