Open Access Course: Jobs, Careers, and Professional Development in Geography

Illustration of world map drawn on a chalkboard

This open-access course is designed for undergraduate and graduate students interested in exploring and preparing for a career in geography. It introduces effective strategies for career planning and professional development in geography and examines all sectors, including business, government, nonprofit, and academic organizations. Additional topics include professional ethics, lifelong learning, work-life balance, and professional networking.

Students will identify career interests, research and investigate their discoveries, and prepare job materials and professional documents based on their findings as they navigate through the 14 modules (equivalent to a 3-credit hour course). The course accommodates a wide array of career objectives for all types of aspiring geographers.

Texas State University designed this course drawing on a variety of publications, resources, interviews, and data from the American Association of Geographers (AAG). The course is available at no cost to AAG members and their students.

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Explore careers in geography—download the brochure

Careers Brochure CoverGeography is more than maps—it’s a powerful way to understand the world and shape its future. From climate science and urban planning to business analytics and public health, geographers bring critical insights to today’s most pressing challenges.

Our Careers in Geography brochure offers a snapshot of the many directions a geography background can take you—and how your skills can make a difference.   Download the free PDF and discover where geography can take you

 

What you’ll find inside

This concise, visually engaging guide highlights:

  • The wide range of career paths available in geography—including business, nonprofit, government, and education
  • Real-world examples of geographers at work across industries
  • Key skills employers value, from spatial thinking to GIS and data analysis
  • Insights into job growth and emerging opportunities in geospatial fields

Whether you’re advising students, exploring majors, or considering your own next step, this brochure is a helpful introduction to the possibilities.

 

Why Geography?

  • Geographers are uniquely equipped to connect data, place, and people. They help organizations:
  • Understand social and economic patterns
  • Address environmental challenges and resource management
  • Improve decision-making through spatial analysis

These skills are increasingly in demand across sectors, making geography a strong foundation for meaningful and versatile careers.

 

Need materials for students or events?

While printed copies are not currently available, the downloadable format makes it easy to:

  • Share with students and prospective majors
  • Include in advising packets or course materials
  • Distribute digitally at campus events and info sessions

We’re exploring future updates to this resource, so stay tuned.

The Careers in Geography brochure is now available as a free digital download. Share freely with students, colleagues, and advising networks.

Download the brochure

 

Continue exploring geography careers

Looking for more?

  • Browse careers, salary insights, and job listings
  • Access career prep resources and tip sheets
  • Explore geography programs across the Americas

Visit AAG’s Careers resources

 

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Practicing Geography

Practicing Geography Cover

This book examines career opportunities for geographers and geospatial professionals in the business, government, nonprofit, and education sectors. A diverse group of academic and industry professionals shares insights on career planning, networking, transitioning between employment sectors, and balancing work and home life. The book illustrates the value of geographic expertise and technologies through engaging profiles and case studies of geographers at work.

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Aspiring Academics

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