Geographer

Your Fit

Income

$97K

Preparation

Considerable

Growth

1.1%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Geographer?

A Geographer studies the Earth's surface, including its physical features, inhabitants, and phenomena. They analyze environments, landscapes, and spatial relationships using various tools and technologies.

Sample job titles:

Earth Observations Scientist, Geographer, GIS Coordinator (Geographic Information Systems Coordinator), GIS Geographer (Geographic Information Systems Geographer)

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Geographer.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Geographer earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$62K per year	$76K per year	$97K per year	$117K per year	$134K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $48K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Geographer do?

Work environment

Geographers work in various settings, including government agencies, academic institutions, research organizations, and private sector companies. Their work often combines fieldwork, where they gather data, with office settings where they analyze findings using geographic information systems (GIS) and other tools.

Quick task list

Collects geographic data through field observations, surveys, satellite imagery, and GIS.
Analyzes spatial data to understand patterns and trends in human and physical geography.
Creates maps and graphics to illustrate spatial information.
Conducts research and presents findings.
Advises policymakers, businesses, or the public based on geographic analysis.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Physical Geography: Studying natural environments, climate, and ecosystems.
Human Geography: Examining human activities, cultures, economies, and urban development.
Cartography and GIS: Specializing in mapmaking and spatial analysis technologies.
Environmental Geography: Focusing on environmental issues and conservation.
Geospatial Intelligence: Analyzing spatial data for national security and defense.

Description

Geographers explore the complexities of the Earth's surface, blending knowledge from various disciplines, including sociology, economics, and environmental sciences. They use tools like GIS to visualize and analyze spatial data, making sense of patterns and relationships in diverse topics, from urban planning to climate change. Geographers play a crucial role in planning, conservation, and policy-making by providing insights into how human activities interact with the physical world.

A career in geography offers a dynamic work environment, often involving a balance of fieldwork, data analysis, and collaboration with other experts. Geographers must be adept at using technology for data collection and analysis, as well as skilled in critical thinking and problem-solving. They often communicate complex geographic information to non-specialists, requiring excellent presentation and writing skills.

Working as a geographer can be fulfilling, offering opportunities to contribute to important environmental and societal issues. Geographers gain a unique perspective on world affairs and environmental challenges, allowing them to influence policy and planning decisions that shape the future of communities and natural environments.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to meaningful environmental and social issues.
The variety and interdisciplinary nature of the work.
Opportunities for fieldwork and travel.

You might make a good Geographer if you are...

Fascinated by different cultures, landscapes, and environmental systems.
Skilled in spatial thinking and enjoy working with maps and geographic data.
Interested in using technology for data analysis and visualization.
Curious about how human activities impact the natural world.
A strong communicator who can present complex information effectively.

Pros:

Engaging and varied work with practical applications in many sectors.
Opportunities for travel and field research.
Growing relevance with the rise of geospatial technologies.

Cons:

Potentially limited job opportunities in some geographic specializations.
The need for continuous learning to keep up with technological advancements in GIS and remote sensing.
Balancing fieldwork with desk-based data analysis can be challenging.

How to become a Geographer

Typical education

A bachelor's degree in geography or a related field is typically required, taking about 4 years of post-secondary education. Advanced positions, especially in research or academia, may require a master's degree or Ph.D.

High school preparation

Courses:

Geography to understand the basics of the field.
Environmental Science and Biology for insights into physical geography.
Computer Science to develop skills in GIS and data analysis.
Statistics for data interpretation.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining geography or environmental clubs.
Participating in mapping and GIS projects or competitions.
Volunteering for community projects involving environmental conservation or urban planning.

Preparation after high school

Earn a bachelor's degree in geography, environmental science, or a related field.
Gain experience with GIS software and technologies.
Pursue internships in government agencies, NGOs, or research institutions.
Consider advanced degrees for specialized or research-focused roles.

More resources

American Association of Geographers (AAG) - Provides resources, networking, and information for geographers.
Esri - Offers GIS software, training, and resources.
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) - A source for geographic information and research.
National Geographic Society - Offers educational resources and information on geographic research and exploration.
GIS Lounge - Provides resources and articles on GIS, cartography, and geographic education.

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