Geography career : Paths, Opportunities & Earnings

Geography as a subject revolves around the environment and places. It is a category under Social Sciences dealing with places, landscapes, locations and resources on earth by and large. It promotes the study of the human relationship with the environment they are exposed to. It inculcates human exhibitions with their space and place. Broadly, Geography is divided into two subcategories. Physical Geography has everything to do with the study of our mother Earth, its surface, climate, oceans, streams, atmosphere, landscapes, etc . Whereas, Human Geography deals with the distribution of humans as a resource on the surface of the Earth, their consumption and the utilisation of available natural resources. Under Geography, natural resources, their depletion and renewability contribute to an entirely different subject.

It combines different physical, social and cultural sciences to study diverse cultures, settings, soils and environments. Geography becomes one of the most important subjects because all in all, it is a phenomenon that encapsulates the entire human race, traditions and geographical aspects together.

Why choose Geography

Geography ranks as the tenth highest popular subject in Social Sciences. Since only a few students consider choosing this course (because they feel that Geography isn't scopeful), it becomes a field with a very scarce population of graduates in it, making it a lucrative subject from career perspective with high salary offers. One of the reports suggests that there would be a high demand for Geography graduates in the future because not many people consider choosing it and it's considered to be an unconventional side. According to the analysis of a survey, 7.3% of the World’s Economy is distributed to the fields and sides of Geography. Testimonials of more than 800 graduates depict that Geography as a field conquers and attains 2% of the job market and there's around 78% of chance that it can stand out to be one of the largest contributors to the future market thereby making it exceptionally scopeful in the future.

According to a survey, the majority of Geography graduates work in the Government, Natural Resources oriented and Mining industries. Many surveys and studies conclude that almost 97.5% of Geography graduates are employed and leading a successful life by earning good numbers. Even though Geography is considered to be an unconventional subject, there are presently around 38000 job openings for the same. Interestingly, only 2.5% of Geography graduates are unemployed. Moreover, it has been concluded by many researchers that students studying Geography attract an ideal way of looking at the world holistically which is beneficial and can prove to be one of their prominent assets.

Top careers in Geography

In a world full of thousands of subjects and fields, Geography is the only subject that gives answers to the "whys" and "wheres" of sequential environmental, economic, political, geographical and other related phenomena. Being one of the most unconventional and unique subjects, careers in Geography have no bars. Considering the importance of Geography in almost all-important horizons and spheres, a degree in Geography can never go in vain. From being a Cartographer to exploring as an Environmental Consultant, your Geography degree can push you to various fields and disciplines. The list below highlights a few of the significant careers that one can drive towards with a degree in Geography:

Landscape Architect- Landscape architecture is the design of the external built environment. The study of Geography is related to landscape architecture because the best landscape architects need to understand the geographic features of the terrain and natural environments, and how people use and interact with open spaces. However, working as a landscape architect requires more design knowledge, such as using computer-aided design and drafting software. If you want to become a landscape architect, you may need a minor in Geography and a bachelor's degree in landscape architecture, or a dual major in both subjects. Additionally, after earning a degree in Geography, you can earn your first professional master's degree in landscape architecture in a program that welcomes career transition professionals and undergraduate-level students.

Cartographers- Cartographer covers the scientific, technical and artistic aspects of map design and creation. It provides simple maps as well as complex information such as charts, graphs and spreadsheets. From everyday personal use to large-scale industrial developments, maps and detailed geographic information are needed. The use of geographic information systems and digital mapping technologies now plays an important role.

Geographical information systems officer- Geographical information systems (GIS) agents use the GA system to collect and analyse specific numbers of geographical data, and to establish long-term plans. The GIS system is a computerised system used to collect, preserve, analyse, operate, and express a certain number of complex geographical and spatial data. Data can be used in various formats, including map creation, photos, and digital records like satellites, remote surveys, or electric boards. This data is used in most governments and trade industries. They are also responsible for making long-term development prospects in the context of protection, meteorology, petroleum, gas, communication, transportation, and infrastructure.

Environmental Consultant- Environmental consultants provide their clients with detailed technical assessments and advice on environmental matters. Their role includes providing clients with professional advisory and assessment services to reduce or eliminate environmental damage. They typically work for consulting firms, undertake various commercial or government contracts, and address a variety of environmental issues. They are also responsible for their client's compliance with environmental regulations.

Meteorologists- Meteorologists are not only presenters of the weather forecasts we see on television, but they also do much of the research necessary to produce those forecasts. They use information from land, sea and atmosphere to study the causes of weather conditions. They use this information along with mathematical and computer models to generate long and short-term forecasts of weather and climate conditions. It is used by industry, government, and the general public to be informed about the environmental horizons and make informed decisions about the same. In addition to forecasting, meteorologists study weather and its effects on the environment by examining weather patterns, climate change, and changes in weather forecast patterns.

Tour guide- Travel guides show clients aspects of the natural and cultural environment and bring the environment to life using physical and human factors. They work in a variety of environments including cities, forests, ancient ruins, museums and more. Knowledge of the country and the weather is an important asset, especially in the outdoor tourism industry. Geography majors with broad and passionate perspectives can thrive in this profession.

Surveyor- The main role of a survey is to extract land, airspace and water boundaries. Surveyors work with engineers, urban planners, cartographers and architects to help plan and create foundations and infrastructure for construction projects. They literally "verify" land developers who plan accurate measurements, update perimeters and prepare construction sites. Thus, it helps construction workers to work safely and sustainably and plays an important role in the future of a city, town or county.

Scope of Geography in India

Although Geography is sometimes criticised for being a "useless" degree, the truth is that it is one of those subjects which is considered to be of utmost importance to relish the natural resources, our environment and human life primarily. In this wide-ranging interdisciplinary course, individuals develop essential interdisciplinary skills in research, mathematics, statistics, computer science and data analysis. Being of utmost significance, Geography is highly required in various important sectors in India. The below-mentioned sectors are a few top sectors that venerate and consider Geography graduates. 

Academia- There are many academic career paths for Geography graduates. This may include holding positions in large institutions, mentoring at community colleges, and influencing younger generations as school teachers. In the pursuit of higher education, they gain knowledge and experience in teaching and advising, excellence in research and publication, and organisations that are positioned to succeed in each of these specialised academic opportunities. They are prominent in stretching the legacy of Geography all in all.

Healthcare and medical industry- Geography plays a significant role in the healthcare and medical industries. Under this branch, they are responsible for studying the patterns and structures in which a disease spreads at the global or environmental level. They also study the environmental factors and causes in the context of diseases that have the potential to bring forth pandemics or epidemics.

Military / Defence- Military operations involve time, space, and the nature of things in that time, space, and environment. Military strategy is largely determined by geography rather than current practice or training. Hence, Geography and the defence industry go hand in hand.

Tourism- Geography is the backbone of the Tourism industry which allows people to experience different realities and a privileged relationship with unusual landscapes, lifestyles, places and even cuisine. All these aspects require good geographical knowledge.

Economy- Geography and Economics combine to contribute to the world's economy to make it successful. Geography plays a very important factor in studying the factor and analysing the strata that affect the economy at both national and international levels. Stagnation, growth and development are directly proportional to the geographical aspects they are occurring in.

Average Salary for Geography in India

Geography being research-oriented in nature requires skills that involve advanced theoretical knowledge and understanding of how the natural environment and natural resources are the way they are, how sustainable development works and what are the repercussions of resource depletion. Being good at Geographical skills requires a high range of knowledge and advanced analytical thinking. Although Geography isn't considered by many students when choosing a field because of its complexities, its average salary offers are pretty good. The below-mentioned table represents the average salary according to job positions in Geography:

Top recruiters for Geography

Geography is highly diverse and applicable in nature thereby it is directly or indirectly interconnected with other disciplines. It has its doors wide open towards the corporate world and Government/Federal agencies as well. The below-mentioned list highlights a few prominent recruiters that willingly hire Geography graduates.

• UltraTech Cement

• IBM

• Goibibo

• IKEA

• Seventh Generation

• Ecolab

• JACOBS

• Philips

• Unilever

• Panasonic

Top Placement Colleges for Geography

Just like it becomes important to get into a great college in the context of placements, it becomes highly important to have prior knowledge of the placement records, companies and the highest salaries offered by a particular college. Geography as a subject is not only responsible for attracting good analytical, critical and decision-making skills for deserving graduates but also good salary packages and great recruiting companies. All in all, around 1800 colleges are offering Geography as a course in India, out of which, 28% are Government owned institutions while the remaining ones are in the hands of Private owners. The below-mentioned table highlights a few top government colleges based on their placement records and highest packages.

The table below represents a few top private institutions while considering their placement records.

How to get a good job after Geography

Securing a good position in a great company isn’t a troublesome task if an individual acquires a good command over the subject.

• Primarily, an individual is expected to engage in creating a resume wherein all the qualities, strengths, weaknesses and knowledge that a Geography graduate should inculcate. The individuals must have great knowledge of Climate, Human and Environmental related phenomena.
• Building a network, also become important while looking for jobs. Geography graduates must collaborate and form associations with NGOs, Government agencies, the Healthcare industry, Media and Entertainment, etc. to bring change and leave positive imprints.
• Graduates with a degree in Geography should be open and welcoming to acquiring real-time exposure through surveys and projects. This contributes to getting a good lucrative job.
• If an individual with a degree in Geography is aiming to get into a high-paying job then s/he should keep up with the changing environmental trends.
• One should smartly and consciously select their specifications to excel in their fields which should align with their interests, aptitude and knowledge.

Top Indian Cities to get Lucrative Jobs after Geography

Those who study Geography pursue unique perspectives, with knowledge of different cultures and spatial awareness which is unmatched by other disciplines. This combination of knowledge helps geographers to find important and unique solutions that others cannot see. Additionally, Geography can have a positive impact on the world by raising awareness about the repercussions of climate change. Geographers have a deep and well-known understanding of weather patterns and climate change thoroughly; they also have a comprehensive understanding of how these changes affected people in many areas. While imparting this knowledge to increase global understanding and awareness, Geographers become highly important for different cultures and societies. Reports and analysis are suggestive of the fact that Geography graduates find better jobs in areas that are zones for Mining and surveys. The table below lists a few prominent cities where Geography is highly venerated and valued in terms of lucrative jobs.

Life after pursuing a degree in Geography

Geography being interdisciplinary in nature mediates and innovates great foundational career choices for its graduates while simultaneously not failing to attract great lucrative jobs.
The skills obtained through Geography are highly advanced and can be incorporated into many fields eventually making the life of its graduates trouble-free and elementary.
Reports and testimonials of many Geography graduates suggest that they are highly satisfied with their subject and its key takeaways. One of the alumni in an interview remarked on the significance and congruent nature of Geography by mentioning that "Geography is the only subject which allows me to be globally engaged and culturally agile while I analyse the world’s ever-changing landscape and seek solutions to a diverse range of issues we face today. I see Geography every day: in changing climates, in social inequalities, and in retreating coastlines. No subject is more relevant to our lives."