Joe Smith, RGS-IBG Director

Choose Geography

‘A knowledge of geography is an essential tool in understanding the enormously consequential and dizzyingly rapid changes our planet is going through. Geography is the one subject that looks at the whole story.’

These are extraordinary times. Today’s world is very different from the one we lived in even a few years ago, and in the past few months it has been turned completely on its head. A global pandemic, climate change, racial inequality and Brexit are just a few of the issues facing our world – and all of them are inherently geographical. Geography has never been more relevant as a subject to study and it has never been more important. For anyone considering a degree in geography, this guide is essential reading. It provides helpful insights into the types of universities offering geography and the differences in their courses, it illustrates just some of the successful careers that geographers pursue, and it gives practical advice on the UCAS process and personal statements.   Independent research and data provide clear evidence that geography degrees are popular – year on year ever-increasing numbers of students choose geography – while those enrolled on geography courses express among the highest levels of satisfaction with their courses, stick at them and do well. In addition, the employment opportunities at the end of a geography degree are strong, varied and well paid.

Geography degrees are also varied, so no matter what your interests – whether it be sustainability; the environment; natural disasters; societies and communities; landscapes or flooding; GIS and all the new mapping technology; transport and planning; international development or lots more – you can find your place in geography. So read this guide – and the additional advice and resources provided on www.rgs.org/choosegeography – to explore the wide range of options and choose the one which is right for you. The world needs geographers, now more than ever, to create a sustainable future for generations to come and to make a real difference in today’s uncertain world.

Professor Joe Smith, Director, Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)