Geographer

Study the nature and use of areas of the Earth's surface, relating and interpreting interactions of physical and cultural phenomena. Conduct research on physical aspects of a region, including land forms, climates, soils, plants, and animals, and conduct research on the spatial implications of human activities within a given area, including social characteristics, economic activities, and political organization, as well as researching interdependence between regions at scales ranging from local to global.

On the job, you would:

Create and modify maps, graphs, or diagrams, using geographical information software and related equipment, and principles of cartography, such as coordinate systems, longitude, latitude, elevation, topography, and map scales.
Gather and compile geographic data from sources such as censuses, field observations, satellite imagery, aerial photographs, and existing maps.
Teach geography.

Important Qualities

Analytical skills. Geographers study data and information from a variety of sources and must be able to draw conclusions about their usefulness and meaning.

Computer skills. Geographers must be proficient in GIS programming, database management, and data visualization techniques and should be comfortable creating and manipulating digital images with GIS software.

Communication skills. Geographers often need to write reports and funding proposals. They also present their research and findings to their peers and nontechnical audiences and must be able to convey the meaning of data in understandable ways.

Critical-thinking skills. Geographers must be able to choose the appropriate data, methods, and scale of analysis for projects.

Personality

A3	Your Strengths	Importance	Characteristics of this Career
		85%	Attention to Detail - Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
		84%	Analytical Thinking - Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
		79%	Initiative - Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
		78%	Persistence - Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
		77%	Dependability - Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
		77%	Integrity - Job requires being honest and ethical.
		76%	Achievement/Effort - Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
		75%	Independence - Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
		71%	Cooperation - Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
		70%	Adaptability/Flexibility - Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
		68%	Innovation - Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
		65%	Self-Control - Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
		60%	Stress Tolerance - Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
		56%	Concern for Others - Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
		54%	Leadership - Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.

A3	Your Strengths	Importance	Strengths
		100%	Investigative - Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
		61%	Realistic - Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.

A3	Your Strengths	Importance	Values of the Work Environment
		83%	Independence - Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
		78%	Achievement - Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
		75%	Working Conditions - Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
		56%	Recognition - Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.

Aptitude

A3	Your Strengths	Importance	Abilities \| Cognitive, Physical, Personality
		78%	Written Expression - The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
		78%	Inductive Reasoning - The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
		78%	Written Comprehension - The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
		75%	Oral Comprehension - The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
		75%	Oral Expression - The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
		75%	Deductive Reasoning - The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
		72%	Near Vision - The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
		69%	Speech Recognition - The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
		69%	Information Ordering - The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
		69%	Speech Clarity - The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
		66%	Category Flexibility - The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
		66%	Problem Sensitivity - The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
		56%	Fluency of Ideas - The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
		53%	Originality - The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
		53%	Flexibility of Closure - The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
		53%	Perceptual Speed - The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.

A3	Your Strengths	Importance	Skills \| Cognitive, Physical, Personality
		70%	Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
		68%	Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
		63%	Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
		59%	Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
		59%	Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
		57%	Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
		52%	Science - Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
		52%	Learning Strategies - Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
		52%	Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
		52%	Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
		52%	Systems Analysis - Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.

Job Details

Responsibilities

Prepare maps.

Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.

Develop software or applications for scientific or technical use.

Collect archival data.

Conduct anthropological or archaeological research.

Instruct college students in social sciences or humanities disciplines.

Compile geographic or related data.

Collect geographical or geological field data.

Conduct anthropological or archaeological research.

Advise others on business or operational matters.

Collect geographical or geological field data.

Develop software or applications for scientific or technical use.

A3	Your Strengths	Importance	Attributes & Percentage of Time Spent
		98%	Electronic Mail - How often do you use electronic mail in this job?
		89%	Indoors, Environmentally Controlled - How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
		86%	Structured versus Unstructured Work - To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals?
		85%	Freedom to Make Decisions - How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
		83%	Face-to-Face Discussions - How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
		73%	Telephone - How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
		71%	Spend Time Sitting - How much does this job require sitting?
		69%	Work With Work Group or Team - How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
		69%	Importance of Being Exact or Accurate - How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
		64%	Level of Competition - To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
		63%	Time Pressure - How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
		60%	Contact With Others - How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?
		56%	Letters and Memos - How often does the job require written letters and memos?
		53%	Deal With External Customers - How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job?
		51%	Coordinate or Lead Others - How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
		77%	Duration of Typical Work Week - Number of hours typically worked in one week.

A3	Your Strengths	Importance	Tasks & Values
		90%	Analyzing Data or Information - Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
		89%	Working with Computers - Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
		88%	Processing Information - Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
		86%	Getting Information - Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
		81%	Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge - Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
		80%	Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others - Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
		77%	Documenting/Recording Information - Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
		75%	Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates - Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
		75%	Thinking Creatively - Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
		74%	Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events - Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
		74%	Making Decisions and Solving Problems - Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
		71%	Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work - Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
		69%	Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships - Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
		69%	Training and Teaching Others - Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
		66%	Developing Objectives and Strategies - Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
		62%	Performing for or Working Directly with the Public - Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
		61%	Communicating with People Outside the Organization - Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
		59%	Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People - Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
		56%	Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards - Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
		54%	Providing Consultation and Advice to Others - Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
		53%	Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings - Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
		51%	Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information - Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
		51%	Scheduling Work and Activities - Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.

What Geographers Do

Geographers use maps and global positioning systems in their work.

Geographers study the Earth and the distribution of its land, features, and inhabitants. They research the interactions between the physical aspects of a region and the human activities within it.

Duties

Geographers typically do the following:

Gather geographic data through field observations, maps, photographs, satellite imagery, and censuses
Conduct research via surveys, interviews, and focus groups
Create and modify maps or other visual representations of geographic data
Analyze the geographic distribution of physical and cultural characteristics and occurrences
Collect, analyze, and display geographic data with Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Write reports and present research findings
Assist, advise, or lead others in using GIS and geographic data
Link geographic data with economic, health, or other data

Geographers use several technologies in their work, such as GIS, remote sensing, and global positioning systems (GPS), to find relationships and trends in geographic data. They then present the data visually as maps, reports, and charts. For example, geographers may overlay aerial or satellite images with GIS data, such as population density in a given region, and create digital maps. They then use the maps to inform governments, businesses, and the public on a variety of topics, including urban planning and disaster response.

The following are examples of types of geographers:

Physical geographers study features of the natural environment, such as landforms, climate, soils, natural hazards, water, and plants. For example, physical geographers may map where a natural resource occurs in a country or study the implications of proposed economic development on the surrounding natural environment.

Human geographers often combine other disciplines with their research, which may include economic, environmental, medical, cultural, social, or political topics. Some human geographers rely primarily on quantitative research methods; others rely more heavily on qualitative methods, such as field observations and interviews.

Geographers often work on projects with people in related fields. For example, geographers may work with urban planners, civil engineers, legislators, or real estate agents to determine the best location for new public transportation infrastructure.

People who study geography and who use GIS in their work also may be employed as surveyors, cartographers and photogrammetrists, surveying and mapping technicians, urban and regional planners, geoscientists, or hydrologists. People who earn a Ph.D. in geography may become postsecondary teachers.

Work Environment

Geographers held about 1,500 jobs in 2022. The largest employers of geographers were as follows:

Federal government, excluding postal service	65%
Educational services; state, local, and private	11
State government, excluding education and hospitals	9
Professional, scientific, and technical services	6

Geographers who do fieldwork may travel to foreign countries or remote locations to gather data and observe geographic features, such as the landscape and environment.

Work Schedules

Most geographers work full time.

Getting Started

Education:

45%

Bachelor's Degree

25%

Doctoral Degree

How to Become a Geographer

Geographers may perform fieldwork as part of their education.

Geographers typically need at least a bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation. Some jobs require a master’s or doctoral degree.

Education

High school students interested in becoming geographers should take classes in physical sciences, computer programming, and geography.

Geographers with a bachelor’s degree may qualify for entry-level jobs and for positions with the federal government. Geographers working outside of the federal government may need a master’s degree in geography or in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Some employers allow candidates to substitute work experience or GIS proficiency for an advanced degree. Research positions may require a Ph.D. or a master’s degree and several years of relevant experience.

Geography programs may include courses in physical and human geography, statistics or math, remote sensing, and GIS. Because geography is an interdisciplinary field, courses in a variety of areas, such as business, economics, or real estate, may be helpful.

College students may benefit from participating in internships that put geography principles into practice.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations

Although not required, certification may indicate professional expertise. For example, the GIS Certification Institute and the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing both offer certification in GIS. Candidates may qualify for certification by passing an exam and meeting other requirements, such as for education or experience.

Job Outlook

Employment of geographers is projected to show little or no change from 2022 to 2032.

Despite limited employment growth, about 100 openings for geographers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Employment

Budget constraints are expected to reduce employment for geographers in federal government. However, governments and businesses will still need geographers to research topics such as natural hazards and the use of resources. For example, geographers’ analyses on population distribution and land use are important for infrastructure planning and development by both governments and businesses.

Contacts for More Information

For more information about geographers, visit

Association of American Geographers

For more information about geographic information systems (GIS) certification, visit

American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing

GIS Certification Institute

To find vacancies for geographer positions in the federal government, visit

USAJobs

Similar Occupations

This table shows a list of occupations with job duties that are similar to those of geographers.

Occupation	Job Duties	Entry-Level Education	Median Annual Pay, May 2022
Anthropologists and Archeologists	Anthropologists and archeologists study the origin, development, and behavior of humans.	Master's degree	$63,940
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists	Cartographers and photogrammetrists collect, measure, and interpret geographic information in order to create and update maps and charts for regional planning, education, and other purposes.	Bachelor's degree	$71,890
Economists	Economists conduct research, prepare reports, and evaluate issues related to monetary and fiscal policy. They also may collect and analyze statistical data.	Master's degree	$113,940
Geoscientists	Geoscientists study the physical aspects of the Earth.	Bachelor's degree	$87,480
Market Research Analysts	Market research analysts study consumer preferences, business conditions, and other factors to assess potential sales of a product or service.	Bachelor's degree	$68,230
Political Scientists	Political scientists study the origin, development, and operation of political systems.	Master's degree	$128,020
Postsecondary Teachers	Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a variety of academic subjects beyond the high school level.	See How to Become One	$80,840
Surveying and Mapping Technicians	Surveying and mapping technicians collect data and make maps of the Earth's surface.	High school diploma or equivalent	$47,180
Surveyors	Surveyors make precise measurements to determine property boundaries.	Bachelor's degree	$63,080
Urban and Regional Planners	Urban and regional planners develop land use plans and programs that help create communities, accommodate population growth, and revitalize physical facilities.	Master's degree	$79,540

Geographer

What they do: