Careers in Geography

Geography deals with the aerial differentiation of the earth's surface. It includes study of factors such as physical features, climate, soil, vegetation, population, land use and industries all over world and their regional differentiation. Geography as a career options, thus provides multiple options to the young aspirants who have keen interest in different phenomena of the earth. With the increase use of satellite technology and Geographical Information System in almost every sphere of life, Geography is becoming a more promising career option than it was ever before.

Course Details
Bachelor’s of Arts in Geography is the minimum course to start a career in this field. This is a three year course offered by many universities throughout India. The minimum qualification for this course is 10+2 pass. Some universities also offer B.Sc courses in Geography. Further one can pursue higher studies in Geography like Maser’s Degree/M.Phil./PhD. At these levels one can choose any specialized courses in Geography like Cartography, Urban and Town Planning, Regional Planning, Physiography, Climatology, Oceanography, Population Studies, Economic and Environmental Geography.

Career Prospects
In the age of satellite technology and GIS, multiple career options are waiting for qualified and able geographer. They can work with various government departments and research institutes as cartographer, regional and urban planner. Several private sector organisation using GIS and remote sensing technology also require the service of qualified geographer. Geographers also can join NGOs and other developmental agencies engaged in population studies, rural development and environmental issues. Teaching in schools/collages/universities is also a good option for geographers. They can also start their own coaching institutes or tutorials.

Top Colleges Offering UG/PG/Other Courses
Following universities/institutes offer various courses in Geography and related subjects. These are University of Delhi, New Delhi; Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi; University of Rajasthan, Jaipur; Institute of Geo-informatics & Remote Sensing, Kolkata; Jamia Millia University, New Delhi; Amity University, Noida; Symbiosis Institute of Design, Pune; Rabindra Bharti University, kolkata; Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi; SNDT Women's University, Mumbai; M. S. University of Baroda, Baroda; University of Calcutta, Kolkata; Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar; Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology, Ahmedabad; Birla Institute of Technology, Ranchi and Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Hyderabad, Aligarh Muslim University; Aligarh.

Remuneration
Geographers employed in government departments and research institutes draw salary of Rs 8,000 to Rs 15,000 per month, which totally depend upon their qualification, experience and seniority. In private sector remuneration is very high along with other benefits like house rent and medical allowances. Monthly earnings of Geography teachers can vary from Rs 10,000 to Rs 25,000 per month.