Geographers

Geography is a very small profession. Sixty-three percent of geographers are employed by federal government agencies, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Budget cuts and the outsourcing of work to private professional, scientific, and technical services consulting firms has reduced opportunities at federal agencies. But it's important to remember that only a small number of geographers are employed at these firms, so there will be only a small number of job openings. The DOL indicates that, on average, only 100 jobs will open in this field annually through 2033.

The use of GIS technology in traditional and nontraditional settings, such as emergency services, environmental science (including the study of climate change), energy exploration, natural hazards, and homeland security, will create some new opportunities for qualified geographers.

Geographers will be needed to analyze or select sites for commercial construction, such as new shopping centers, supermarkets, and industrial parks. There will also be a demand for geographers to work in urban renewal projects, highway programs, real estate development, the telecommunications industry, and environmental planning. Competition for college and university teaching jobs is stiff. Many geographers with graduate degrees seek research and management positions in government and private industry. Others fill nonacademic positions in cartography, health services, climatology, flood management, conservation, and environmental planning.

Those with degrees in geography are well-equipped to work in related positions such as cartographers and photogrammetrists, surveying and mapping technicians, surveyors, urban and regional planners, and geoscientists. Additional education may be required for some of these positions.