What careers can I get with a geography degree?
Earning a geography degree can lead to many rewarding careers that blend a diversity of skills across physical science, cultural studies, and technology to solve some of the world’s most complex problems. Geography degrees are for anyone passionate about learning about the world and how it works. It’s natural interdisciplinary nature enables you to expand your knowledge and bring together multiple skills to the work force and get you ready for the career that best fits your interests!
Why get a geography degree?
At the heart geography is a study of how people and places are connected. A cross-disciplinary curriculum of science, society and human influence give you the breadth of knowledge and analytical skills to solve complex real-world problems.
“We cannot solve the big challenges of our times like climate change by working in silos,'' said Sara Meerow, assistant professor in the School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning at Arizona State University. “We need different perspectives and methodologies, and geography offers that.”
From studying how people interact in economic, political, social, and spatial contexts, to studying conservation, climate change and natural resource management, to learning how to use the latest geospatial tools, drones and technology to tease out new patterns and insights of everyday life, earning a geography degree can prepare you for a rewarding career.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, median wages for Geographers were $81,970 in 2019. Even the lowest paid 25% of Geographers made $63,300 annually, far exceeding the median wages for all income earners.
While it's almost impossible to list all the career options you can get from a geography degree, a common trait among geographers is a shared inquisitive nature and deep drive to make a place better.
Here are 5 careers you can get with a geography degree:
1. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technicians
Employment: 412,800
Projected Growth: Faster than average, 7-10%
Median Wages: $88,550
2. Environmental Scientists and Specialists:
Employment: 85,000
Projected Growth: Faster than average, 7-10%
Median Wages: $71,360
3. Cartographers and Photogrammetrists:
Employment: 11,800
Projected Growth: Much faster than average, 11% or higher
Median Wages: $65,470
4. Climate Change Analysts:
Employment: 85,000
Projected Growth: Faster than average, 7-10%
Median Wages: $71,360
5. Atmospheric and Space Scientists:
Employment: 10,000
Projected Growth: Faster than average, 7-10%
Median Wages: $95,380
Learn more about our programs and careers at https://sgsup.asu.edu/
(*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employment figures are for 2018; projected growth is for the period 2018-2028; median wages are for 2019)