Geographers study the Earth's physical features and atmosphere, human populations, and their impact on the environment. They analyze spatial patterns, conduct research, create maps, and make recommendations based on their findings. Geographers can specialize in areas such as environmental geography, cultural geography, urban geography, or GIS (Geographic Information Systems). Common tasks include fieldwork, data analysis, mapmaking, and presenting research findings.
This income data is sourced from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. The dataset is updated annually.
Annual Pay Distribution | Salary |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $68,880.00 |
25th percentile | $85,960.00 |
median (50th percentile) | $109,890.00 |
75th percentile | $122,450.00 |
90th percentile | $138,130.00 |
Hourly Pay Distribution | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $33.11 |
25th percentile | $41.33 |
median (50th percentile) | $52.83 |
75th percentile | $58.87 |
90th percentile | $66.41 |
Geographers typically need a bachelor's degree in geography or a related field such as environmental science, geosciences, or urban planning. Some positions may require a master's degree, especially for research or teaching roles. While a high school diploma is required to pursue higher education in this field, a college degree—either a bachelor's or a master's—is essential to work as a Geographer. In terms of training, Geographers often engage in fieldwork, utilize geographic information systems (GIS), conduct research, and analyze spatial data. They may also benefit from internships, hands-on projects, or collaboration with experienced professionals to develop practical skills and gain real-world experience in the field. Additional certifications or specialized training in GIS software and other relevant tools can further enhance a Geographer's qualifications and competitiveness in the job market.