Mapping out a career with a degree in Geography
Geography students leave university with a range of skills which they can apply in the working world - though it isn't always easy to see what kind of career will be open to them.
We spoke to two Geography graduates to learn about how they are taking the experiences they gained from their studies and putting them to work in the real world.
Joe Buxton
- Swansea University
- Geography (Hons) BA
- Current position: Finance and Project Coordinator at ESRO
Joe Buxton graduated from Swansea University in 2011 with a 2:1 classification in Geography, and he now works at ESRO, a small Market Research Agency, as a Finance and Project Coordinator. ESRO's client list includes Sainsbury's, Google, BBC, Lewisham Council and Cancer Research UK.
"I manage the company's books using Xero and I help with general administration duties on various projects," Joe says. "I have also started resourcing people's time over the last few months."
Research is a popular area for Geography graduates looking to begin their careers, and Joe says that the work is well-suited to the kinds of skills students learn during their studies.
But Market Research wasn't always his first choice - he played in a band while attending university, and music remains an important passion for him. He is currently balancing his time between his band and his work, but feels that he is approaching a crossroads and is not sure whether he wants to pursue his music or continue his career.
Most popular sectors for Geography graduates
"After leaving University I was playing in a band so was not looking for an immediate career other than in music. I am still in the band now, which is why I have been slightly hesitant in progressing through the company to become a Researcher."
He acknowledges that a career as a Researcher is a great path for a Geography graduate, and there are many links between Research and Geography.
"If I were to become a Researcher, the work would be very closely related to my degree. Things like social research, qualitative research and areas like that I have picked up from my degree. Also it is a career path you do not need a Master's degree for."
Joe recommends a career in Market Research for Geography students, and says that the transition from studies into work is easier for those who studied Geography.
"You can earn pretty good money and the work is generally varied and interesting," he says. "Social Science modules within Geography are also greatly beneficial for qualitative research, which is what ESRO specialise in."
But a Geography degree is certainly not required.
"I would not necessarily recommend doing Geography to work in my role. Having a degree isn't actually essential, unless of course you wanted to become a fully qualified Chartered Accountant, which a Geography degree is fine for."
Joe isn't the only graduate from his program who has found himself doing a career he'd never considered. He says that many of his course mates have pursued a wide range of professions.
"Some friends have gone into teaching," he says, "while others have started careers as Chartered Accountants and Financial Analysts. Others have pursued typical graduate careers in Marketing, one friend has even become a Landscape Gardener!"
Alex Chrystal
- Sheffield Hallam University
- Environmental Science BSc
- Current position: Job hunting Graduate
Alex Chrystal completed his degree in Environmental Science at Sheffield Hallam University earlier this year, and knows that he wants to apply his skills to a career in the environmental sector.
"I always wanted to pursue a career in the natural world," he says. "During my late school years I decided I wanted to study natural sciences in higher education. I am not 100% sure which aspect to take as of yet, but I have several preferences."
"I want to work in environmental health and safety, the water industry or environmental consultancy."
Geography and Environmental graduates acquire specialist knowledge during their studies which leaves them with a wide range of career paths, and Alex believes there should be much more collaboration between professionals in these varied fields.
"A single consultant or engineer makes little overall impact on the planet's well-being, but collectively environmental activists can make a huge difference, now and in the future. I want to be a part of that."
Alex does think that his degree is fantastic for career prospects and that's one of the reasons why he chose it.
"Although I found the subjects I studied very interesting, the sole reason for studying in university was to help with this career. I chose my degree as I saw it as a catalyst for work. Qualifications and work experience go hand-in-hand when looking for a job and sometimes one cannot be appreciated without the other in job applications."
Most popular locations for Geography graduates
A key focus for Alex during his time at university was to acquire work experience, which he continues to pursue.
"I have undertaken work experience with consultancies in Sheffield, undertaking a range of types of work and receiving training to assist with certain jobs. I still work part-time for a consultancy in Sheffield, however I am planning to find a different, full-time, job."
Alex believes his time at university has prepared him for his job search in several very specific ways, and sees his academic knowledge as an important part of what he can offer employers.
"The academic practice in university gives you a broad pool of knowledge and from this you can choose your career path. Degrees supply you with the knowledge for working in multiple disciplines of your chosen career and from there I was able to select my preferred topics."
He points out that his time at university helped him develop as a person and prepared him mentally for the working world.
"During university I matured considerably," he says, "and my interpersonal skills are far more developed than before. This includes general life skills, such as living independently. University has helped me grow as a person, and I believe this will have a surprising impact on my career prospects."
"You also learn to understand what is expected of you, and sometimes what to expect."
The graduate job market can be difficult, and Alex knows he needs to stand out to get the best chance.
"It's an ever-increasingly competitive market, and so you need to make yourself stand out. This is always a challenge, as different employers look for different employees. There may just be that someone who also applied for the same job and has one more worthy attribute than you do or you failed to put something down on your CV."
"I always make sure I note everything I can think of on my CV, while keeping it succinct, and tailor my cover letter to each employer."
Alex has no current ambition to return to education, but admits there will be plenty to learn when he starts his career.
"I am finished with my education. I am ready to start work. However, I believe with my chosen career I will attend many training sessions and gain qualifications that help with my long term career."