How useful is a Geography degree? Learn the Career Options, Salary & Scope

Geography students get an opportunity to learn about the landscapes, atmosphere and the natural environment we live in, as well as the planet. Check out what all options one can take up after pursuing an Undergraduate Geography degree and what the future in Geography looks like.

How useful is a Geography degree? - Geography is the study of the Earth, its structure, complexities, physical features and its interactions with people, animals and plants. Geography is also called the bridge between the natural sciences and social sciences. The subject focuses on Earth, the population, the diversity, a mix of social and physical sciences, studying the planet’s physical properties and much more. Students studying Geography get the opportunity to learn about the landscapes, atmosphere and the natural environment we live in, as well as the planet. Students can pursue Geography right after class 12th. With the subject, students learn the skills of dealing with problems and also providing solutions. In this article, we will learn about the various Geography courses (UG, PG, Diploma, Certificate), the best institutes for these courses, job opportunities and more. Read further to learn more. 

What to do after a BA/BSc Degree in Geography?

There are two paths which can be taken after pursuing an undergraduate Geography degree. One can either opt to take up higher studies or one can opt to take up a job and begin their career straight away. One gains knowledge about the various subjects and topics which are taught in the undergraduate Geography degree, and can use their skills in landing a job straight away. Students hone their problem-solving skills and critical thinking, which can be applied in any given situation.

Pursue Higher Studies

One of the most advisable options from many experts and professionals would be to pursue higher studies. One can go on to learn plenty more and can specialize in a field. If you are aiming to pursue your postgraduate degree in Geography, you can learn plenty more and specialize in a topic or subject. The skills one refines and the project work done will help students understand the world from an entirely different perspective and know what exactly needs to be done. If a student wants to do their research work, they can opt to do their Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Geography, which is offered by various Universities and Colleges. If one wants to join academia and become a professor, a PhD can be pursued.

Here are the top colleges in India offering Geography courses:

In order to get into renowned Universities, various universities conduct entrance exams. The top entrance exams conducted for admission to Geography courses are:

Scope after Geography Degree

The next option, if you do not want to pursue your higher studies, is to begin your career by taking up a job. The world needs scientists, environmentalists, problem-solving leaders, innovators and professionals in the field of Geography to help make the world better and brighter for our future. People can get into various career options such as Cartography, which deals with the making of maps, charts, globes, models and much more. Students can join town planning or remote sensing, or urban and regional planning. Students can also opt to become teachers or professors, however, higher studies are required in the field of academics. To become a teacher, one has to do their BEd, to become a professor, their MA/MSc, followed by their PhD.

The scope in Geography is as such that various organisations, companies, government offices require professionals with creativity and innovativeness, with problem-solving skills, with leadership qualities to help the town/city/state/nation develop for the betterment of humanity.

Career Options after a Geography Degree

After pursuing a Geography degree, students can opt to take up a career in the following employment areas:

Job Profiles

Aspiring Geography students can check the table below to know about the job profiles for Geography degree holders. 

Salary after a Geography Degree

Students who take up jobs right after their BA/BSc should expect to start right from the bottom of the food chain unless they have done internships and received training certificates from companies or organisations. The offers may not sound as lucrative as they do, however, as one gains experience, takes on more projects and climbs the ladder through promotions, one can earn a pretty penny and do well for themselves. The starting package for any job can be up to Rs 2.45 LPA. After three years of experience, the packages start from Rs. 6.5 LPA to Rs. 7.6 LPA.

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