Employers of Geography majors in NC

Geographers

Geographers study the Earth and the distribution of its land, features, and inhabitants. They also examine political or cultural structures and study the physical and human geographic characteristics of regions ranging in scale from local to global. Most geographers work full time during standard business hours. Many geographers do fieldwork, which may include travel to foreign countries or remote locations. Geographers need a bachelor’s degree for most entry-level positions and for positions within the federal government. Work experience and a master’s degree are typically required for more advanced positions. The median annual wage for geographers was $76,860 in May 2017. Employment of geographers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Geographers should face strong competition for jobs, as the number of candidates is expected to exceed the number of available positions.

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, emergency response, and other purposes. Although cartographers and photogrammetrists spend much of their time in offices, certain jobs require extensive travel to locations that are being mapped. Most cartographers and photogrammetrists need a bachelor’s degree in cartography, geography, geomatics, or surveying. The median annual wage for cartographers and photogrammetrists was $63,990 in May 2017. Employment of cartographers and photogrammetrists is projected to grow 19 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. Job prospects are likely to be excellent due to the increasing use of maps in government planning.

Geography Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in geography. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research. The median annual wage for postsecondary geography teachers was $78,040 in May 2017.