When it comes to geography, it is often one of those subjects that is not always taken seriously. Many view geography as a course that is unimportant and useless. They can’t see how it applies to life outside of the classroom. In other cases, students may take a geography course because they have to. However, many students take geography because they are interested in learning about the world around them.
If you are considering pursuing a career in geography, it is important to understand what geography is and most importantly what types of jobs you can apply for after graduation.
What is Geography?
By definition, geography is an analysis of regions around the world. It examines the physical, natural resources, social, cultural, economic, and political systems. Taking a course in geography is more than just labeling maps and learning where places are located. It helps you to better understand the world around you. In addition, taking a geography course helps you to understand why places differ from one another and how people interact with each other. Geographers also study human activity and how they interact with the environment.
Careers in Geography
Geography is a diverse field which offers many career opportunities. If you aren’t interested in being a teacher, there are a variety of jobs you can apply for with a degree in geography. Here are a few jobs you may not think are connected with geography.
Writer and Researcher
In college, you have developed your writing and research skills through writing research papers. These skills can help you write for a newspaper or magazine as a science or travel writer.
Environmental Management
Environmental managers assist in environmental assessment, cleanup, and management. A degree in geography helps develop skills such as project management and developing environmental impact reports.
According to "Geography Jobs: What Are You Going to do WIth a Degree in Georgraphy?" the following are offered as career opportunities:
- GIS Specialist
- Climatologist
- Cartographer
- Urban Planner
- Water Conservation Planner
- Aerial Photo Interpretor
- Surveyor
- Zoning Inspector
- Economic Development Analyst
The best way to get your foot in the door and gain valuable hands on work experience is through internships. Applying for internships in your area of interest will help make your resume impressive and gain the job you want.
Sources:
Rosenburg, Matt. "Geography Jobs What Are You Going to do With a Degree in Georgraphy." About.
"Geography Major." My Majors.
"Jobs and Careers." Association of American Geographers
