Planning to study geography after 12th? Explore these career opportunities

Geography is a discipline that bridges the social and natural sciences, encompassing the study of various spatial and social phenomena on Earth’s surface. There are two main branches of Geography: Physical Geography and Human Geography. Physical Geography deals with the spatial characteristics of various natural phenomena related to the Earth. On the other hand, Human Geography focuses on human behaviour and processes and their relationship with the physical spaces they inhabit. Physical Geography falls within the natural sciences, while Human Geography is included in the Social Sciences. There is a range of geography degrees available, including B.A. and B.Sc. at the undergraduate level, and M.A. and M.Sc. at the graduate level.

Bachelor’s degree in Geography:

Eligibility and preferred education background: Those interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Geography must complete 10+2, preferably in Arts or Science, and then select Geography as a course, as it provides students with the fundamental background required for further studies in Geography.

What are the trending career options?

Cartography: Geographers specialising in this sub-category create maps, charts, globes, and models.

Survey: Geographers can specialise in surveying by joining organisations like the survey of India, state survey departments, or private companies. Surveyors map the Earth’s surface through mathematical observations and fieldwork.

Urban and regional planning: This specialisation focuses on planning, housing, and development projects, considering location and land-space utilisation. Degree courses are available in this field.

Town planning: Town planners are employed by public and private organisations and are involved in urban planning and design, as well as NGOs engaged in rural development projects. Many universities offer diploma courses in town planning.

Remote sensing: Geographers study rapidly changing phenomena like floods, droughts, and forest fires using data from remote sensing satellites, which provide various information about the Earth’s surface.

Climate change analysis: Professionals in this field analyse scientific data and conduct research on climate change, making predictions about Earth’s future climate and weather.

Geospatial analyst: Geospatial analysts work with geographical data, design databases, and use this information in GIS applications for sectors like the military, real estate, environment, and government.

GIS specialist: GIS specialists use specialised software to manage, analyse, and visualise geographic data, often in urban planning, environmental management, and transportation.

Environmental consultant: Environmental consultants assess and manage environmental risks for businesses and organisations, drawing on their geographic knowledge.

Urban planner: Urban planners develop plans and policies for land and resource use in urban areas, using their geography expertise.

Geospatial analyst: These analysts create models and simulations using geographic data to aid informed decision-making.

Conservation scientist: Utilising geography and ecology knowledge, conservation scientists develop strategies to protect and manage natural resources.

Travel writer: Travel writers use their geography expertise to write about global destinations and cultures.

International development specialist: These specialists work to address social and economic issues in developing countries, using geography to identify needs and solutions.

Cartographer: Cartographers create accurate and informative maps using geography, mathematics, and computer science skills.

Disclaimer: This article has been written by Ms Amita Tiwari. The views expressed in this article are that of the author only