Last Updated By Harleen Kaur on 20 Mar, 2022
The study of geography bridges the gap between the social and natural sciences and includes the study of various phenomena on the surface of the earth. Human Geography and Physical Geography are the two main branches of Geography. Physical Geography focuses on the spatial characteristics of natural phenomena associated with the earth. Human Geography, on the other hand, studies how humans interact with the physical spaces in which they live. Human Geography is considered part of social sciences while Physical Geography belongs to natural sciences.
There are various geography degrees including Bachelors and Masters in Geography such as B.A., B.Sc., at the undergraduate level, and M.A., M.Sc., at the postgraduate level.
With its diverse geography, India is one of the most diverse countries in the world. From the Himalayas to the coasts to the deserts, the geography is simply astonishing. Geographical careers have a wide range of opportunities from here on. After completing their undergraduate or postgraduate degree, students can pursue careers in travel and tourism, cartography, and analysis. India’s diversity is unmatched in this ever-dynamic world that we will be in. The scope of a career in geography is booming especially in the travel and tourism industry as there is so much to explore in India.
Provided below is the responsibility shared by a Geographer. Go through the pointers to understand the job profile better.
Mentioned below are the eligibility criteria of a geographer. Check out the eligibility criteria required for UG, PG candidates.
For UG Candidates | For PG Candidates |
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Particulars | Bachelor’s Degree | Master’s Degree |
Entrance exams | There are no entrance exams as admissions are done based on class 12th results. | Entrance exams are conducted by the universities themselves; popular entrance exams include Jamia Milia Islamia Geography Entrance Exam, JNU Entrance Exam, etc. |
Course duration | 3 years | 1 - 2 years (Vary from the university to university)
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Course structure in brief | Students study the basics of both human and physical geography focusing on physical features and processes of the earth's surface, human-environment relations, and society’s interaction with numerous spaces covered. Apart from that, practical skills are including remote sensing and Geographical Information systems (GIS). | Students choose from the various range of subjects based on their personal choice of interest. The subjects are broadly categorized into Physical Geography, Socio-Cultural Geography, Economic Geography, or Political Geography. Apart from that, students are given options to take up courses from another related stream such as sociology, environmental, political science, etc.
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The list of colleges offering Bachelor’s and Master's in Geography are tabulated below:
List of Colleges (Bachelors) | List of Colleges (Masters) |
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Popular careers choices in Geography include academics (teacher/lecturer/professor), Researchers, Cartographers, Environmental consultants, Urban planners, Tourism officers, GIS Specialists, Demographers, Hydrologists, etc.
Here is the list of job roles offered to a Geographer:
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The list of other careers - related to Geography are tabulated below:
Anthropologists and Archaeologists
| Anthropologists and archaeologists study human origin, development, and behavior. They examine and analyze the cultures, languages, archaeological remains, and physical characteristics of humans in various parts of the world.
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Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
| Cartographers and photogrammetrists primarily collect, measure, and interpret geographic information. They create and update maps, charts for regional planning, education purposes, emergency response, and other important purposes.
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Economists
| An Economists mainly study the production and distribution phase of resources, goods, and services by collecting data and analyzing it, researching updated trends, and evaluating economic issues. |
Geoscientists
| Geoscientists study the physical aspects of the Earth including its composition, structure, and processes. Learn about the past, present, and future.
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Market Research Analysts
| Market research analysts study the market – its conditions and evaluate the potential sales of a product or service. Analysts also help companies understand what products people want, who will buy them, and at what price.
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Political Scientists
| Political scientists focus on the origin, operation, and development of political systems. They mainly cover the research political ideas and analyze government policies, political trends, and issues related to them.
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Postsecondary Teachers
| Postsecondary teachers teach students a variety of academic as well as technical subjects which are beyond higher education. They also conduct research and publish scholarly papers and books with students.
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Urban and Regional Planners
| Urban and regional planners help in developing land use plans and programs that create communities, accommodate population growth and revitalize physical facilities in the cities.
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There are various employment opportunities for a Geographer in different sectors. Some of the top sectors/industries that require a geographer are listed below:
The top recruiters in India for geographers are listed below:
In India, top jobs as a geographer are highly varied, depending upon the academic achievements and experience earned the salary varies.
Job Profile | Minimum Average Salary | Maximum Average Salary |
Demographer | INR 40,000 per month | INR 1,000,000 per month |
*The salary would differ from person to person and from company to company.
• It is mandatory to have a Ph.D. or Master’s degree to pursue it further.
• In comparison to another field, there are a smaller number of jobs directly related to this field.
• For freshers, the average pay package is low initially.
Take our test and find out if it suits your strengths.