Disclosure: The Graduate Samaritan is a free independent blog supported by its readers; this post may contain affiliate links that may earn a tiny commission to help the blog sustain itself, thank you for supporting this independent blog! (full disclaimer here)
Thinking about studying geography? You’re probably wondering whether a geography degree is worth it—spoiler alert: it can be!
Whether you’re passionate about the environment, urban planning, or geopolitics, geography offers a fascinating and versatile academic path.
Let’s break it down and see if a geography degree is right for you 👇
Why Do Students Choose Geography? 🧭
Geography isn’t just about maps and capitals—far from it. It’s the study of how people interact with the planet, blending science, politics, economics, and culture.
Students are often drawn to geography because it helps explain real-world issues like:
- 🌡️ Climate change
- 🏙️ Urban development
- 🗺️ Migration & globalisation
- 💧 Water scarcity
- 🌍 Environmental sustainability
If you’re someone who’s curious about the world, enjoys research, and likes both fieldwork and data analysis, a geography degree would be worth the time and effort.
What Will You Study in a Geography Degree? 📚
Geography isn’t just about memorising capital cities or learning where volcanoes are (although you’ll definitely cover some of that too). It’s a dynamic subject that blends science, social insight, and problem-solving—all tied to real-world issues.
A geography degree usually offers a mix of physical and human geography, with options to specialise as you progress. These typically include:
🌍 Physical Geography
This is where you study the natural world—think landscapes, climate systems, and environmental processes. You’ll learn about things like glaciers, rivers, volcanoes, and ecosystems, and how they’re all connected.
If you want to understand how climate change affects sea levels or why natural disasters happen, this is your zone.
🏙️ Human Geography
Here, it’s all about people and places. You’ll explore how cultures, communities, economies, and politics shape the world around us. Topics like urban development, migration, inequality, and globalisation are front and centre.
It helps explain why some regions thrive while others struggle—and what can be done about it.
🗺️ Geographical Information Systems (GIS) & Data Analysis
In case you weren’t aware, this is a big one in modern geography. You’ll learn to use GIS software and mapping tools to analyse spatial data.
Whether it’s tracking deforestation or mapping flood risks, these digital skills are super valuable and very in-demand across multiple industries.
📊 Research Methods & Fieldwork
Actually, geographers don’t just sit in classrooms—they go out into the world. You’ll gain hands-on experience through field trips, data collection, and group research projects.
Basically, this teaches you how to design studies, interpret data, and present findings clearly—a skill set that employers love.
🌐 Environmental & Sustainability Issues
With climate change and sustainability topping the global agenda, you’ll delve into renewable energy, conservation, and environmental policy.
This area of study equips you to understand and tackle some of the biggest challenges of our time.
✍️ Report Writing & Communication
Geography students do a lot of writing—essays, case studies, policy reports, and more.
But don’t worry, this isn’t just about word counts. It’s about learning to argue a point clearly, back it up with evidence, and communicate complex ideas to different audiences.
Most courses also include field trips, both local and international 🌍—yes, that means learning outside the classroom!
👉 Recommended: Check out our list of University Essentials for a Day On Campus.
How to Make the Most Out of Your Geography Degree 🌟
Studying geography opens loads of doors—but how much you get out of it really depends on how you approach your degree. Here are some practical tips to help you thrive academically and boost your career chances:
🔎 Get Hands-On with Fieldwork
Fieldwork isn’t just a requirement—it’s a huge learning opportunity. Take it seriously! Ask questions, get involved, and use the time to build confidence in your research and observation skills. Employers love candidates with real-world, practical experience.
💬 Build Digital & Data Skills Early
Geographers who can use GIS software, analyse statistics, and work with spatial data are in high demand. Don’t wait until final year to get tech-savvy—seek out extra workshops, tutorials, or short online courses alongside your modules.
🌐 Join Geography Societies & Attend Events
Get involved in uni clubs and attend public lectures or guest talks. It’s a great way to network, explore niche interests (urban planning? disaster management?), and stay up-to-date with current issues in the field.
✍️ Start Building a Portfolio
Whether it’s GIS maps, research reports, or travel blogs based on fieldwork, keep track of your projects. This not only helps with revision, but gives you real material to show future employers or add to a LinkedIn profile.
💼 Get Work Experience—Even if It’s Small
Look for internships, volunteering, or summer placements. Whether it’s with a local council, an environmental NGO, or even a data analysis firm, experience shows initiative and helps you figure out your interests early.
🌍 Explore International Opportunities
Studying abroad for a term or participating in international research trips can really broaden your perspective. It also shows you’re adaptable and culturally aware—top traits for global employers.
👉 Recommended: Check out our list of the Best Books to Develop a Successful Mindset at Uni.
Subjects That Complement a Geography Degree 🧠
Want to take your geography degree even further? Combining it with the right subjects can really sharpen your edge:
- 🗣️ Foreign Languages – Perfect if you’re eyeing international roles, development work, or global NGOs.
- 💻 Computer Science / Data Science – Super valuable for careers in GIS, environmental data analysis, or smart city planning.
- 🧾 Economics – Great for those interested in development studies, urban planning, or sustainability policy.
- 🧠 Sociology or Politics – Helps deepen your understanding of human geography topics like migration, inequality, and governance.
- 🌱 Environmental Science – Ideal if you’re leaning toward conservation, ecology, or sustainability careers.
These combos not only broaden your skills but also make you more competitive for interdisciplinary roles after uni.
What Jobs Can You Get With a Geography Degree? 💼
The best thing about studying geography? It opens up tons of career paths in the UK and abroad—and not just in obvious areas like teaching or the environment.
In fact, the beauty of geography is its flexibility. Your degree opens doors in several sectors: A geography degree gives you data, research, analytical, and problem-solving skills that are useful in a wide range of industries.
Here’s a breakdown of some popular career options:
🌳 Environmental Consultancy
Work with companies or government bodies to assess environmental impact, advise on sustainability strategies, or help manage projects in a way that protects the planet. You’ll use both your field skills and your scientific understanding of ecosystems, pollution, and regulations
🗺️ GIS and Mapping
GIS (Geographic Information Systems) is one of the fastest-growing fields in geography. You could be mapping traffic patterns, analysing crime data, planning logistics, or even working on natural disaster responses using spatial data. It’s techy, in-demand, and can lead to high-paying roles.
🏛️ Urban and Regional Planning
Help design cities, transport systems, green spaces, and housing developments. Urban planners need to understand how people move, what communities need, and how to develop areas sustainably—making geographers a perfect fit.
🌐 International Development
Use your knowledge of global systems, inequality, and environmental change to work with NGOs, charities, or governments on development projects. You might be involved in tackling poverty, improving infrastructure, or supporting refugees and displaced communities.
📊 Data Analysis & Research
Geography grads are trained in handling large data sets, identifying patterns, and using statistics—skills that transfer easily into sectors like finance, marketing, and public policy. Think of it as problem-solving with a global twist.
🏫 Teaching and Education
If you want to inspire the next generation, teaching geography at secondary school or college level is a rewarding path. You can also move into educational content creation, curriculum planning, or outdoor/environmental education roles.
👉 Recommended: Looking for a stylish & comfy backpack for uni? Check out below the Best Backpacks for Uni Students!
Alternative Career Paths for Geography Graduates
And remember—these aren’t the only options. Many geographers find themselves in fields like climate science, policy advising, tech, conservation, sustainability management, and more.
Many geography grads also go into roles in government, sustainability, transport, conservation, and disaster management. And don’t forget—you can branch out into finance, marketing or tech, thanks to your analytical and research skills.
It’s a degree that keeps your future wide open 🌍
How Much Can You Earn With a Geography Degree? 💷
Starting salaries for geography graduates in the UK range from £23,000 to £28,000, depending on the role. With experience and further qualifications, earnings can rise significantly:
- 🌍 Environmental consultants: £30K–£45K
- 🧠 Urban planners: £35K+
- 🖥️ GIS specialists: £30K–£50K
- 🌐 International aid workers: Varies widely depending on the organisation
Geography may not be the highest-earning degree right out of uni, but with the right path, it’s more lucrative than many think! In terms of salary potential, a degree in geography is therefore worth it.
Geography Job Market & Future Outlook 🔮
The demand for geography-related roles is on the rise, especially in areas like:
- 🌱 Sustainability and green energy
- 🌍 Climate risk assessment
- 🧭 Data mapping & geospatial intelligence
- 🧑🤝🧑 Social impact research
With the climate crisis, population growth, and global interconnectivity increasing, geography graduates will be crucial in shaping the future. In terms of future outlook, this makes a degree in geography worth it.
Did you Know? 🎓
We have crafted ad-hoc essential lists for various facets of university life!
- Student essentials, a day on campus 📝
- Accommodation essentials, most useful & forgotten💡
- Study from home essentials, the simpler the better 🖥️
- Kitchen essentials, self-catered accommodation & flats🥘
- Coolest gadgets for university, innovative and useful 🎧
More Queries People Ask About Geography Degrees 🤔
It can be challenging, especially when juggling both scientific and theoretical modules, but it’s incredibly rewarding if you’re passionate about the subject.
Yes! It’s versatile, analytical, and relevant to many global challenges today. Employers value geography graduates for their research, data analysis, and problem-solving skills.
Absolutely. Geography degrees are ideal for international careers, especially in development, conservation, disaster relief, and climate advocacy.
Geography is often considered a bridge between the sciences and humanities. Physical geography is heavily STEM-based, especially when using tech like GIS or conducting climate data analysis.
Yes! Many universities accept students with related subjects like biology, sociology, environmental science, or economics. Just check individual course requirements.
Very! It’s one of the most interdisciplinary degrees and can lead to a huge range of careers in both public and private sectors.
Final Thoughts: Is a Geography Degree Worth It? 🌍✅
If you’re someone who cares about the planet, people, and progress, a geography degree is definitely worth it.
This degree can be the perfect way to turn that passion into a career—from climate research to city planning, the world needs geography grads more than ever.
Plus, with field trips, global career options, and a strong focus on real-world issues, geography is one of the most engaging and future-proof degrees out there.
We hope this post has helped you answer the initial question: is a geography degree worth it in the UK? The choice is yours, best of luck!
Looking for more degree reviews? Check out more below to help you decide what’s right for you!
See below all degree reviews on our website:
- Business Management Degree 📊
- Marketing Degree 📢
- Accounting and Finance Degree 💰
- Hospitality Management Degree 🏨
- History Degree 📜
- Biomedical Sciences Degree 🧬
- Psychology Degree 🧠
- Law Degree ⚖️
(Bonus paragraph) The Best Student Discount! 💸
Want to save money and enjoy exclusive perks? Unlock big savings with Amazon Prime Student, you can get 6 months FREE—and that’s just the beginning! Here’s what you’ll get with your free trial:
- 🚚 Free Next-Day Delivery on all your essentials—because who doesn’t love fast shipping?
- 🎬 Amazon Prime Video: Stream the latest films, TV shows, documentaries, and even live sports events.
- 🎶 Prime Music: Listen to ad-free music, playlists, and podcasts to stay focused while studying.
- 🎓 Student-Exclusive Offers: Get discounts on uni essentials, textbooks, and more.
And, if you love it (which you will), you can keep your Prime membership at half price until you graduate! 🎓
Ready to start? Follow this quick step-by-step guide to set up your Amazon Prime Student account:
- Visit the official Amazon Prime Student, landing page.
- Click on “Start Your 6-Month Trial” and then hit “Try Prime Student”.
- Sign in if you already have an account, or create one quickly.
- Enter your university email address (ending with .ac.uk).
- Provide your expected graduation year.
- Add your payment details (don’t worry, the first 6 months are totally FREE!).
- Verify your email (Amazon will send a confirmation to your uni address).
- Enjoy your Prime perks!
Don’t miss out on these incredible benefits—sign up today and get your free 6 months of Amazon Prime Student now!