Your degree in Geography

Skills you’ll develop

While studying Geography, you’ll learn about people and the world through humanities, social sciences, biological, and physical science disciplines. You’ll develop important skills related to the changing regional patterns of human behaviour in order to understand how these systems shape the landscape and what we might do to reshape our world.  

These skills may include:

  • Conducting original research to answer your own pressing questions about such matters as climate change, biodiversity, society and environment, urban life, global health, and social inequality
  • Conducting historical, archival, and literary research drawing upon quantitative and qualitative methods as well as mapping techniques
  • Critically comparing and contrasting information and perspectives about the causes of environmental and social issues and thinking critically about the possible solutions 
  • Analyzing geo-spatial data
  • Designing and creating maps and graphs
  • Clear and concise written communication drawing upon the fundamental importance of context and local contingency 
  • Persuasive public speaking and reasoning abilities integrating perspectives from the humanities, social sciences, and geographical sciences

Career possibilities

Career opportunities vary widely across a range of fields including urban and regional development planning, environmental consulting, cartography and geographical information science, geographical marketing, international trade relations, government, non-profit organizations, academic and community-based research, post-secondary teaching, and others.

There are many career paths that can combine your academics, skills, and experience with your different interests. Read through the job titles below for ideas.

Visit the Job Bank Canada website to research basic requirements and responsibilities of jobs in your field. Some career options may require further education or training.

  • Aerial photo technician 
  • Aerial survey technician
  • Agronomist
  • Agricultural advisor
  • Cartographer
  • Climatologist
  • Community development consultant
  • Cultural geographer
  • Ecologist
  • Ecotourism officer
  • Environmental planner
  • Environmental consultant
  • Field technician
  • Forestry technician
  • Geographer
  • GIS technician
  • Geomorphologist
  • Heritage planner
  • Hydrologist
  • Impact analyst
  • Journalist
  • Land surveyor
  • Lobbyist
  • Museum curator
  • Park planner
  • Photogrammetrist
  • Policy analyst
  • Program coordinator or manager
  • Real estate appraiser
  • Remote sensing technician
  • Researcher
  • Teacher or Professor
  • Transportation planner
  • Urban planner
  • Water inspector

Make the most of your program

Your experiences will open doors to new opportunities, develop your skillset, and help you clarify your values and interests.

Build your network

Employers often hire people they know, so help them get to know you. You can build your network through clubs, classes, informational interviews, and more. There are so many ways to make connections and find mentors.

The professional associations below are also great resources for meeting people, learning about specific industries, and finding job and volunteer opportunities. Most have reduced membership rates for students and new grads.

Connect with alumni

Learn about possible career paths by browsing alumni stories or viewing the profiles of UBC Geography graduates on LinkedIn.

As you read, take note of interesting job titles, organizations, and experiences you may want to explore. If a particular story or profile aligns with your goals, consider reaching out for an informational interview.

More information

Throughout your Arts degree, you’ll develop skills and experiences that can translate into many career paths. Check out other things you can do with your Arts degree.

Geography is also a UBC Science specialization. Check out what you can do with a Science degree or learn about other Science specializations.