Updated on Sep 4, 2023 05:36 IST
Jasmine Dang Arora

Jasmine Dang AroraDeputy Manager-Content

Geography degree courses after the 12th are becoming popular amongst students day by day. The study of the Earth and its lands and features, inhabitants, and phenomena, is known as the study of Geography. The subject of Geography comes under Science and adds as a major contributor to other science subjects we study and know. 

Admission to Geography courses requires students to have 50 per cent aggregate marks in 10+2 or graduation. The course can be pursued at undergraduate, postgraduate, certificate, and diploma levels. Also, students have the option to pursue Online courses in Geography from a number of online learning platforms like Udemy, edX, and Coursera. The cost of Geography courses ranges from INR 20,000 to 1 lakh.

The study of Geography helps students to learn about different types of landforms, physical structures of the Earth, Space, and so on. It also helps in knowing the country's resources, topography, and geographical location by taking this course. The graduates of Geography courses can find employment as cartographers, town planners, consultants, conservation officers and landscape architects. The salary at these profiles ranges between INR 2 lakh to 8 lakh.

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Table of Contents
  1. Geography Course Highlights
  2. All About Geography
    • 2.1 Why Study Geography?
    • 2.2 Who Can Pursue Geography?
  3. Geography Eligibility Criteria
  4. Geography Entrance Exams 2023
    • 4.1 Type of Geography Courses 
  5. Geography Syllabus
    • 5.1 Specialisations in Geography
  6. Top Colleges for Geography Courses
    • 6.1 Top Private Colleges for Geography
    • 6.2 Top Government Colleges for Geography
  7. Geography Career Scope: Job Profiles & Top Recruiters
    • 7.1 Job Profiles for Geography Students
    • 7.2 Top Recruiters for Geography Graduates
  8. Geography Abroad for Indian Students
  9. Online Geography Courses
  10. FAQs on Geography

Geography Course Highlights

Potential students who want to have a promising career can enrol in this course, and there are numerous prospects in the sector. Desirous students can read on for complete information about the programme. It will help them in taking decisions related to entrance exams and which career they can take forward to shape their careers and climb the ladder of success.

Students can have a look at the table below to know the key highlights of a career in Geography.

Particulars Details
Course Name Geography
Level of Course Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Diploma, Certificate
Duration

UG-3 Years

PG-2 Years

Diploma-1 month to 2 years

Certificate-1 month to 2 years

Eligibility

UG- Pass Class 12th with 50% marks

PG- Graduation in relevant field

Diploma- Pass 10+2 with 50% marks

Certificate- Pass 10+2 with 50% marks

Entrance Exams CUET, JNUEE, PUBDET, TISSNET etc.
Fees INR 20,000-2 lakh
Average Salary INR 2-8 lakh
Job Profiles Geospatial Analyst, Environment Consultant, Market Researcher, Landscape Architect, Tourism Officer, etc.
Top Recruiters

ISRO, NATMO, NRSC, Agriculture research, GIS and Remote sensing, Colleges and Universities

Also Read:

Careers After Studying Geography 

University NIRF Ranking 2023: Top 100 Universities in India

All About Geography

Careers in urban planning, environmental management, international relations, Cartography, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and more are all possible with a geography background. Geography is a field that is always changing, both in terms of education and research. Our knowledge of the Earth and its processes can be improved by studying geography, which can contribute to ongoing research in many fields. Aspiring individuals who want to have a promising career can enrol in a Geography course as it carries numerous prospects in the sector.

Why Study Geography?

There are numerous reasons to study geography. Here are a few of the most important: 

  • Geography helps us understand our surroundings. It educates us about the world's various cultures and habitats, as well as how they have shaped human history.
  • Geography is a useful skill for many jobs. It is required for careers in planning, environmental science, and international relations.
  • Geography is an enthralling and ever-changing subject. There is always something new to discover about the Earth and its inhabitants.

Who Can Pursue Geography?

Anyone, regardless of background or interests, can study Geography. However, there are other characteristics that may make you a better fit for a career in Geography. A person who has a curiosity about the world can go for this course. Geography students should be curious about diverse cultures, environments, and ways of life. They should also be interested in how the Earth operates and how humans interact with it. Geography students must be able to think critically about their surroundings and solve difficulties. They must be able to analyse data, recognise trends, and devise solutions to complicated issues.

Geography Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criterion for Geography courses is identical to other courses, and ambitious candidates must meet the criteria to pursue the course.

Geography Courses Eligibility
For Undergraduate Programmes

 

  • Students interested in the Geography Undergraduate Programme must have a 10+2 from an accredited board.
  • He or she must also pass the Class 12th board exam with a high percentile in Humanities.
  • The percentage is determined by the university/college. The minimum percentile, however, is 45-55 percent.
  • To pursue a BSc in Geography, you must first pass the UGC online test or the All India Entrance test.
For Postgraduate Programmes

 

  • Candidates for Postgraduate Studies in Geography must have a degree in the discipline from a reputable university.
  • He or she must achieve the bare minimum required percentile in the subject that a university or college expects.
  • To pursue an MSc in Geography, one must first pass the UGC NET or the All India Entrance Exam.

Also Read:

 

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Geography Entrance Exams 2023

Students need to appear in the below-mentioned entrance exams in order to get admission to Geography courses. Students need to shortlist the colleges in which they want to seek admission and then check their admission formalities on college websites. They also need to check whether admissions in that particular college are provided on the basis of merit or entrance tests. Accordingly, they can prepare for the other formalities and exams.

They can have a look at the table below to know complete details about registration and exam details.

Entrance Exams Registration Details Exam Details
BHU UET Over  Concluded
DUET Over  Concluded
PUBDET Over  Concluded
IPU CET Over Concluded
JNUEE Over  Concluded

Also Read:

Entrance Exams for Geography Course

Type of Geography Courses 

Various universities and colleges offer Geography in undergraduate, postgraduate, research, and doctoral programmes. Students can choose the degree in which they want to pursue a Geography course. Geography courses help students understand the globe and its intricacies. It also gives them the ability to recognise the beauty of their globe and make wise choices.

The courses are as follows:

Course

Duration

BA Geography

3-Years

BA (Hons) Geography

3-Years

BSc in Geography

3-Years

MA in Disaster Management

2-Years

MA in Geography

2-Years

MA in Geo-Informatics

2-Years

MA in Geology

2-Years

MSc in Geography

2-Years

MPhil in Geography

2-Years

MPhil in Political Geography

2-Years

PhD in Geography

2-Years

PhD in Political Geography

2-Years

Planning to study Humanities in India? Find useful insights on student preferences for colleges, locations and more.

Download All India Humanities Education Report 2023

Geography Syllabus

Geography syllabus is fairly extensive and covers many topics on the globe and its phenomena. This subject focuses on the investigation of the soil, vegetation, plantations, and other factors. Maps and scales, geography with a focus on India, climatic data, map projection, human geography, remote sensing, hours GIS, and quantitative data are just a few of the topics covered. 

Some of the common subjects taught in PG programme in Geography are:

Year Subjects
First Year
  • Geomorphological Analysis
  • Geography of India
  • Modern Geography
  • Demography and Population
Second Year
  • Economic Geography
  • Remote Sensing
  • Geography of Natural Resource
  • Spatial Dimensions of Development

Also Read:

Complete Geography Syllabus

Specialisations in Geography

For individuals who are interested in going more deeply into particular areas of study, geography is a large and interdisciplinary field that offers various specialisations. Here are some noteworthy geographic specialties:

Specialisations in Geography

Behavioural Geography

Demography Geography

Development Geography

Cultural Geography

Economic Geography

Historical Geography

Health Geography

Regional Geography

Biogeography

Urban Geography

Coastal Geography

Climatology

Geodesy

Environmental Geography

Geomorphology

Glaciology

Landscape Ecology

Hydrology

Limnology

Quaternary Science

Oceanography

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--

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Also Read:

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Top Colleges for Geography Courses

Desirous students can select among the thousands of colleges available for Geography courses. They can make their choice according to their suitability and fee structure. The colleges mentioned in the table are listed alphabetically and not in any order of ranking hierarchy.

Top Private Colleges for Geography

Students can have a look at the table below to learn the popular private colleges for Geography courses:

Name of College Fees (in INR)

Amity University, Noida

3.68 lakh

DPG Degree College, Gurgaon

1.1 lakh
K L University, Guntur 4.5 lakh

Lovely Professional University, Delhi

3 lakh
Malla Reddy University, Hyderabad 3 lakh
Madras Christian College, Chennai 56,100

Patna Women's College, Patna

22,500

Sardar Patel Mahavidyalaya ,Chandrapur

2,400
Shri Guru Ram Rai University, Dehradun 35,000

Symbiosis College of Arts and Commerce, Pune

78,000

Vidyasagar College, Kolkata

12,700

Top Government Colleges for Geography

Some of the renowned govenment colleges for geography courses are:

Name of College Fees (in INR)
Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 5.4 to 8.9 lakh
Delhi University 10,900
Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi 20,000

Kirori Mal College, Delhi

41,800

Kamla Nehru College, Delhi

1,100
Madras Christian College, Chennai 56,000
Miranda House, Delhi 42,400
Shivaji College, Delhi 56,000
S S Jain Subodh PG College, Jaipur 33,000
T C Business School, Jaipur 44,000
University of Rajasthan 4,400 to 17,900

Also Read:

Top Colleges for Geography

Plaksha University Young Technology Scholars program records the participation of 200 school students

Geography Career Scope: Job Profiles & Top Recruiters

Geography occupations are limitless because it is one of the most strange and distinct topics. Given the relevance of Geography in practically all horizons and domains, a degree in geography can never be wasted. From cartographer to environmental consultant, your Geography degree can lead you to a variety of industries and specialisations. Geography occupations are limitless because it is one of the most strange and distinct topics.

Job Profiles for Geography Students

There are several geography career options in numerous specialisations which are as follows:

Job Profiles for Geography Graduates

Cartography

Survey

Urban and Regional Planning

Town Planning

Remote Sensing

Climate Change Analysis

Geospatial Analyst

Teacher

Travel and Tourism

Environment Consultant

Landscape Architect

Political Risk Analyst

Disaster Management

Market Researcher

Logistics and Distribution Manager

Tourism Officer

Transport Planner

Top Recruiters for Geography Graduates

Geography offers numerous job prospects, and after completing your post-graduate studies in the discipline, you can either pursue an MPhil or a Doctorate in Geography and work as a professor in a reputable institution or university. You can also get a Master of Arts degree and become a geographer in two years.

As a result, the geography degree provides good career chances, and after completion, you will be employed in a top position with a salary ranging from INR 2 lakh to 8 lakh on average.The graduates of Geography courses can find employment in the below organisations:  

Recruiters for Geography Courses

ISRO

GIS and Remote sensing
NRSC Colleges and Universities
NATMO Environmental protecting agencies
Agriculture research Gas exploration company

Read More:

Career Opportunities for Geography Students

Geography Abroad for Indian Students

The entrance exams required for studying abroad for a Geography programme can vary significantly depending on the country, university, and specific programme you are interested in. The aspirants also need to appear in language proficiency tests like the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for MA abroad admission. 

The course can be completed at a fee ranging from INR INR 4 lakh to 25 lakh. Most popular countries for Geography Abroad are UKUSA, SingaporeCanada, and New Zealand.

Know all about Geography Abroad 

Top Universities for Geography in USA
Top Universities for Geographyin UK
Top Universities for Geography in New Zealand
Top Universities for Geography in Canada

Online Geography Courses

There are a number of courses related to environment and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) which can be pursued online. Students will be able to pursue online Geography courses with convenience and flexibility. In the online Geography programme, lectures are delivered via video conferencing.

One can enrol in an Online programme while residing in another city because there are no on-site classes. It also gives an opportunity to aspirants to learn and perform at their own pace and take their careers to further growth and expand their knowledge.

Students can have a look at the table below to know some demanding Online Geography Courses:

Online Geography Courses Course Provider Fees (in INR)
Introduction to GIS Mapping Couresera Free
GIS Mapping and Spatial Analysis Coursera ----
Machine Learning in GIS and Remote Sensing Udemy INR 649
Information and Communications Technology University of Denver INR 27 lakh

Read More:

Online Courses and Certifications in Geography

FAQs on Geography

Q. What are the popular specialisations in Geography?

A. Some of the popular specialisations are Behavioural Geography, Health Geography, Glaciology, Environmental Geography, etc.

  • Physical geography: This specialisation focuses on the physical features of the Earth, such as its landforms, climate, and natural resources. Read More: Physical Geography 
  • Human geography: This specialisation focuses on the human aspects of the Earth, such as its population, cultures, and economies. Read More: Human Geography 
  • Environmental geography: This specialisation focuses on the interactions between humans and the environment. Read More: Environmental Geography
  • GIS (Geographic Information Systems): This specialization focuses on the use of GIS technology to collect, analyse, and visualise spatial data.

Q. Can I get a job after BA in Geography?

A. Yes, you can get a job after a BA in Geography. Geography is a versatile degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers. Some of the jobs you can get with a BA in Geography include:

  • Geographer: Geographers study the physical and human aspects of the Earth. They use their knowledge to solve problems related to the environment, society, and the economy. Geographers can work in a variety of settings, including academia, government, and the private sector.
  • GIS specialist: GIS (Geographic Information Systems) specialists use GIS technology to collect, analyse, and visualise spatial data. They work in a variety of industries, including government, environmental consulting, and transportation planning.
  • Remote sensing specialist: Remote sensing specialists use remote sensing technologies, such as satellites and drones, to collect data about the Earth's surface. They work in a variety of industries, including environmental monitoring, agriculture, and disaster response.

Q. What is the admission process for studying Geography in a college or university?

A.  Universities and Colleges either conduct entrance exams for admission or offer admission through merit. For postgraduate courses, the candidate will have to appear for an entrance exam. The admission process for admission in Geography consist of various stages, which are mentioned below:

Chose University/College: The first step is to search for colleges or universities which are offering courses in Geography. Check the fees, the seats offered, eligibility criteria which is set for the course.

Apply for Course: Proceed to apply for admission after getting to know the university offering the programme. Fill up the details as required and pay the application fee. The application forms are available for a limited period of time so the candidate is advised to know the details way in advance.

Mode of Admission: Universities and Colleges will either conduct entrance exams for admission or offer admission through merit. For postgraduate courses, the candidate will have to appear for an entrance exam.

Results: Selected and qualified candidates make the merit list. The student has to get the desired rank and percentage, to be eligible for admission.

Counselling: The candidate will have to appear for the counselling session conducted at the university to book their seat, submit their documents and pay the fees to seal admission. Read More: BA Admissions

Q. What is the requirements for admission in MA Geography?

A. Candidates willing to pursue master's in Geography must have graduation degree in Geography with minimum 45 per cent marks. The requirements for admission to MA Geography vary depending on the university and the program. However, some common requirements include:

  • A bachelor's degree in geography or a related field.
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher.
  • Scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or other standardised tests.
  • Letters of recommendation from academic references.
  • A personal statement or essay.
  • A research proposal or project.

Q. Which are the popular entrance exams in India?

A. Some of the entrance exams conducted by colleges offering UG and PG courses in Geography are:

  • JMI Entrance Exam
  • BHU UET
  • PUBDET
  • DUET
  • BHU PET

Q. What are the subjects that one studies in Geography?

A. Here are some of the most typical topics covered in geography classes:

  • Physical geography is the study of the Earth's physical properties, such as landforms, climate, and natural resources.
  • Human geography is the study of the Earth's human features, such as its population, cultures, and economics.
  • Environmental geography is the study of the interconnections between humans and the environment.
  • GIS (Geographic Information Systems): This is a technology that analyses and visualises information using maps and geographical data.

Q. Can I pursue PhD in Geography?

A. Yes, you can pursue a PhD in Geography. A PhD in Geography is a research-intensive degree that typically takes 4-6 years to complete. Ph.D. programmes in Geography typically require students to complete coursework in a variety of geographic subfields, as well as to conduct original research and write a dissertation. To be eligible for a Ph.D. in Geography, you will typically need to have a master's degree in Geography or a related field, such as environmental science, planning, or earth science. Read More: PhD Course Details

Q. What is the admission procedure for Geography courses?

A. Students are required to meet the eligibility criteria which is set by universities. The eligibility criteria may differ from university to university, however, here are the common eligibility criteria set for a course in Archelogy.

BA in Geography: The candidate needs to have done their class 12 from a recognised board and should have secured a minimum of 55%. The candidate can be from any stream. Read About: BA Course

BSc in Geography: The candidate needs to have done their class 12 in Science stream and should have secured a minimum of 55% to be eligible. Read About: BSc Course

MA in Geography: The candidate needs to have done their graduation from a recognised university and should have secured a minimum of 45%. The candidate should also have done their BA or BSc in Geography or any similar field to be eligible. Read About: MA Course

MSc Geography: The candidate should have done their BSc in Geography from a recognised university and should have secured a minimum of 55%. Read About: MSc Course

Q. What is Environmental Geography?

A. Environmental geography is a core group of analytical methods for assessing the impact of human occupancy on the environment by keeping track of how human activities affect natural cycles and structures. Environmental Geography studies how humans affect the natural environment we live in. 

The emphasis of this curriculum is on physical geography classes, which include a special thread of courses covering administration, resources, and environmental difficulties. There are many different teaching and learning techniques, from lectures and tutorials to practical work in statistics, GIS, remote sensing, and cartography. Read More: Environmental Geography Syllabus

Q. What is the difference between Physical and Human Geography?

A. Physical geography and Human geography are the two main branches of geography. Physical geography studies the natural features of the Earth, while human geography studies the human aspects of the Earth. Physical Geography is the study of the environment like climate, soil, water, etc. Whereas Human Geography is the study of developments created by man. 

Q. I am a PCM student, can I study Geography?

A.  Yes, you can study Geography even if you have a PCM background. In fact, many geography programmes welcome students from a variety of backgrounds, as they bring different perspectives and skills to the table.

While a PCM background may not give you the same level of preparation in some of the specific subjects that are taught in geography courses, such as physical geography, you will still have the skills and knowledge that are essential for success in a geography degree. These skills include critical thinking and problem-solving skills, communication skills, research skills, data analysis skills, spatial reasoning skills, etc.

Popular Geography Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Geography Colleges in India. Learn more about these Geography colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
3 Courses
₹3.84 K - 5.4 K
₹7 LPA
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₹2.4 K - 12 K
₹9.2 LPA
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₹10.89 K
₹5 LPA
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₹2.76 L - 3.68 L
₹4.5 - 5.5 LPA

#71 India Today

Geography Applications open. Apply Now

10 Courses
₹75.6 K
₹2.4 - 2.5 LPA
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₹73.57 K
₹6 LPA

#20 Outlook

Popular Private Geography Colleges in India

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₹70 K - 1.13 L
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₹38.5 K
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₹2 L - 7.2 L
₹3.75 - 6.75 LPA
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₹2 L - 7.2 L
₹3.75 - 6.75 LPA
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₹3 L
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₹2.76 L - 3.68 L
₹4.5 - 5.5 LPA

#71 India Today

Geography Applications open. Apply Now

Popular Geography UG Courses in India

Following are the most popular Geography UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Geography PG Courses in India

Following are the most popular Geography PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

Popular Geography Specializations in India

Following are the most popular Geography Specializations . You can explore the top Colleges offering these Specializations by clicking the links below.

Popular Specializations

    qna

    Student Forum

    chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
    Write here...

    Answered a month ago

    The latest cutoff data for M.A. In Geography at Government Bangur College is as follows:
    - General: 85%
    - OBC: 80%
    - SC/ST: 75 %

    57784115
    Md sarik ansari

    Contributor-Level 8

    Answered a month ago

    Yes, you can pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) after completing a B.Sc in Geography. While MSW programs often accept students from diverse educational backgrounds, it's important to check the specific admission requirements of the universities or institutions you're interested in. Some MSW progra

    ...more

    U

    Uttkarsh beriwal

    Guide-Level 15

    Answered 2 months ago

    Yes, you can study Geography Hons UG with ECON and Stat without Math in high school. However, it is important to note that some colleges may require Math as a subject in high school. Here are some colleges that offer Geography Hons UG with ECON and Stat without Math in high school:-

    St. Xavier’s Coll

    ...more

    V

    VIVEK KUMAR GOYAL

    Contributor-Level 7

    Answered 2 months ago

    Yes, you can enroll in MA Geography by correspondence. There are few colleges that offers correspondence courses to   MA students.

    K

    Kale Pooja

    Contributor-Level 6

    Answered 2 months ago

    As of my last update in September 2021, several universities in India offer MSc. Applied Geography and Geoinformatics or MSc. Geoinformatics programs. It's important to note that the "best" university can vary based on various factors, including faculty expertise, research opportunities, infrastruct

    ...more

    21415995
    Md sarik ansari

    Contributor-Level 8

    Answered 2 months ago

    Yes, but you'll have to do B.Ed. first.

    A

    Ananya Sharma

    Beginner-Level 5

    Answered 2 months ago

    Yes, you can find videos on YouTube that can help you learn political science, geography, and sociology.

    Crash Course - This channel offers short, engaging videos on a variety of topics, including political science, geography, and sociology.

    57198317
    YASH SHARMA

    Scholar-Level 16

    Answered 2 months ago

    M.A in Geography is not offered at SHSS. However, SHSS Sharda University offers Master of Arts courses in different specializations including M.A. in Applied Psychology, M.A. in English, M.A. in Political Science, M.A. in Sociology, and M.A. in Modern History. Therefore, the total tuition fee for MA

    ...more

    G

    Gaurav kumar tamta

    Contributor-Level 6

    Answered 2 months ago

    No. SHSS do not offer M.A in geography 

    G

    Gaurav kumar tamta

    Contributor-Level 6

    Answered 2 months ago

    Master of Arts in Geography is not offered by SHSS, Sharda University. However, SHSS Sharda University offers Master of Arts courses in different specializations including M.A. in Applied Psychology, M.A. in English, M.A. in Political Science, M.A. in Sociology, and M.A. in Modern History.

    G

    Gaurav kumar tamta

    Contributor-Level 6

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