What can you do with a geography degree?

Studying geography, you'll gain insights into a range of social, economic and environmental issues, developing theoretical knowledge, applied to real world challenges. In addition to core geographic skills, for example field work and the use of specialist equipment, preparing maps and diagrams, and using scientific and social science methods science, you'll also develop a range of key skills that are valuable to employers in many jobs and sectors:

Geography students can take a placement year in the UK or abroad, or choose a work placement module, to gain experience and build their networks in companies, NGOs, local government and a range of organisations. 

Students can also get involved with clubs and societies and enhance their transferable skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork and problem solving. The Students Union Geography Society organises volunteering opportunities as well as departmental football and netball teams.

Geographers’ wide range of skills in science and social science means they have a broad variety of career paths open to them. Studying geography develops your analytical and communication skills and your ability to evaluate data, all strengths that are in high demand in the graduate jobs market. Many of our graduates work in areas such as environmental planning, health, politics, education, commerce, industry, transport, tourism, and the public sectors. Geography students tend to be open-minded and interested in the world around them, qualities which are attractive to employers and an advantage if working for an international organisation. You'll also have many transferable skills, attracting employers from the business, law and finance sectors. 

Approximately 70% of graduate employers do not specify that you must have studied a particular subject to work for them but value highly skills such as strategic planning, resilience under pressure, creative problem-solving and commercial awareness, just some of the key skills you can develop during your course. You could use your degree to access work in a multitude of sectors or industries.

*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2018/19 – 2020/21. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.

Some of the careers chosen by geography graduates will require or benefit from further study, so this should be considered carefully. The University of Plymouth offers the following postgraduate study options that could be of interest to geography graduates: 

You should consider the financial implications of further study as well as selecting a programme that suits your interests, learning style and future career direction. The following websites are a good starting point for exploring postgraduate options, but you may also benefit from talking to a Careers Consultant about your particular situation. 

Some useful websites to help you find a suitable postgraduate programme:

It is also worth investigating what further study options the University has to offer as you may find the perfect course for yourself in an institution you already know. There are also sometimes financial benefits of staying on such as a fee discount to Alumni – find out your funding options.

Accessing support from the Careers Service couldn’t be easier, come along to the Careers Service Helpdesk in the Student Hub or access our 24/7 online resources.

There is a wide range of support available from skills workshops to events, placements and internships advice, 1-2-1 appointments and help getting started with LinkedIn.

Our bite-sized Skills Workshops can give your career the boost it needs. Choose from a range of topics:

Workshops are delivered by the Careers Service; however, they are also an opportunity to learn from your peers, share experiences and ask questions. Visit myCareer to see the full range of activities and to book your place.

Build your network and job sector knowledge using LinkedIn’s alumni tool. This will allow you to see the career journeys of graduates from your programme, the qualifications they completed, the skills they developed and employers they worked for. You can then ‘connect’ with people of interest.

For more information about the alumni tool select the LinkedIn alumni tool guide. If you are looking for help to set up or learn how to make the most out of your LinkedIn profile, select the LinkedIn guide for students or come to one of our workshops.

Undertaking work experience in your first and second years will help you stand out from the crowd when the time comes for you to complete applications for graduate employment and further study. Work experience develops valuable skills and qualities that employers are looking for and is essential for many roles. It can also help you to confirm or rule out particular career choices. Furthermore, experience in the workplace can bring you into contact with people who may be able to assist you at the beginning of your career.

You have plenty of options open to you. You could apply for a placement year, work part-time around your studies, undertake volunteering or approach organisations directly to negotiate short periods of work experience. Some organisations offer paid internships over the summer or of one year’s duration.

The University of Plymouth Students’ Union also offers a wide range of volunteering opportunities.

Clubs and societies 

Engaging in a sport or society shows employers you are engaged and seek out opportunities, it also helps you improve your teamwork, communication and negotiation skills. Committee members develop leadership, diplomacy and organisational skills and will gain experience of meetings, handling funds, and society promotion

You may choose to join a society that is specifically linked to geography such as GeogSoc or take the opportunity to explore the huge range of clubs, societies and sports, all of which can help you to broaden your horizons and explore new interests.

Your tutor and other academic staff are an excellent source of support for your career development. They will have experience and contacts across industry and academia, so do approach them for advice and insights into careers you are considering. Your tutor will ultimately be writing references for your employment or further study applications, therefore establishing a positive relationship with this person is invaluable.