What Can You Do with a Geography and Environmental Sustainability Degree?

Do you want to make a difference in the world and work in a field that aligns with your values? A Geography and Environmental Sustainability degree can lead to meaningful work protecting our planet and shaping a better future. As exciting as that sounds, you might still be wondering what jobs can I get with a geography degree? Or maybe you’re curious about the types of sustainability degree jobs you can pursue. 

With UTSA Online’s Geography and Environmental Sustainability degree, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and skills you need to address important issues. You’ll study resource management, urbanization, climate change, and more. 

We’ve combined the analytical aptitude of geography with the forward-thinking approach of sustainability. With our program, you’ll be prepared for different careers where you can make an impact. 

You’ll learn from faculty who are experts and have worked in the fields you want to pursue. And when you include your education on your resume, you’ll add “The University of Texas at San Antonio.” Because with our fully online programs, you’re earning the same degree as our in-person students. The only difference is you get to study around your already busy schedule. 

In this blog, we’ll explore what to do with a geography major, environmental and sustainability studies jobs, and more. But first, we’ll explain the skills you’ll gain so you can learn how to tackle some of the planet’s most pressing challenges. Let’s dive in!

Core Skills Gained from A Geography and Environmental Sustainability Degree

With a Geography and Environmental Sustainability degree, you’ll learn both technical and analytical skills that are valued highly across different industries. At UTSA Online, you’ll learn how to do environmental impact assessments and policy analyses. You’ll also learn about Geographic Information Systems (GIS), sustainable resource management, urban planning, and more.

Let’s review a few of these skills in more detail. 

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Spatial Analysis

Understanding geographic data, mapping, and spatial analysis is an important part of a Geography and Environmental Sustainability degree. GIS tools are powerful. You can use them to collect, visualize, and interpret spatial data to uncover patterns and relationships. 

Not every geography program teaches GIS, but at UTSA Online, you’ll learn how to use ArcGIS Pro. This GIS software is widely considered the industry standard for professional-level GIS applications. 

Knowing GIS makes you valuable to employers because you’ll be able to turn data into actionable insights. Instead of relying on guesswork, you’ll help drive informed decision-making through clear analysis and visualization.

These skills are in demand in urban planning, environmental management, disaster response, and logistics. They support smart, location-based decisions, which can be useful for nearly any business.

Mapping

Mapping allows you to create visual representations of spatial information to better understand places, patterns, and relationships. It may seem obvious, but “mapping” is the process of using methods and tools (like GIS) to create a map! A map is just the final visualization you use to interpret spatial information. 

With this skill, you’ll be able to analyze data and communicate complex information in a clear, accessible way. These skills are indispensable for environmental consultants, urban planners, and researchers.

Environmental Impact Assessment

Environmental impact assessments are crucial for organizations. They help ensure projects comply with regulations and minimize negative impacts on ecosystems. You’ll learn how to analyze the effects of development projects on the environment, a key aspect of this degree. These skills are crucial for roles in government agencies, consulting firms, and NGOs.

Sustainable Resource Management

Sustainable resource management focuses on using water, land, and energy to meet current needs without compromising future availability. You’ll learn to develop strategies that balance resource use with long-term conservation goals. These are essential skills in fields like environmental consulting, resource management, and sustainability coordination.

Urban and Regional Planning

Urban and regional planning focuses on designing sustainable communities, infrastructure, and transportation systems. These plans aim to improve quality of life. You’ll learn how to guide responsible growth while supporting environmental and social goals. These skills are valuable in government, urban planning firms, and non-profit organizations.

Policy Analysis and Environmental Law

Policy analysis involves evaluating laws and regulations to understand their impact. You’ll learn to assess policies and recommend sustainable improvements. This knowledge is useful for careers in government, advocacy organizations, and policy research.

Career Paths with a Geography and Environmental Sustainability Degree

When you graduate with a Geography and Environmental Sustainability degree, you’ll have a wide range of career options. Here are some of the exciting paths you can pursue:

GIS and Cartography Careers

• GIS Analyst: Analyze spatial data to support decision-making in industries like urban planning and natural resources.
• Cartographer: Create and update maps for businesses, governments, and researchers.
• Geospatial Data Scientist: Use advanced data analysis techniques to interpret geographic information and solve complex spatial problems.
• Location Intelligence Analyst: Help businesses understand geographic trends for marketing and logistics.

Environmental and Sustainability Careers

• Environmental Consultant: Advise organizations on sustainability practices and regulatory compliance.
• Sustainability Coordinator: Implement eco-friendly initiatives in companies and government agencies.
• Climate Change Analyst: Study climate data to inform policy and business strategies.
• Conservation Scientist: Work on protecting natural habitats and wildlife.

Urban and Regional Planning Careers

• Urban Planner: Design sustainable city infrastructure and policies.
• Transportation Planner: Develop transit solutions that reduce environmental impact.
• Land Use Planner: Advise on zoning laws and land development.

Government and Policy Roles

• Environmental Policy Analyst: Research and draft policies to protect natural resources.
• Climate Policy Advisor: Work on legislation addressing climate change.
• Natural Resource Manager: Oversee the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.

Education and Research

• Geography Teacher/Professor: Educate students on geographic and environmental topics.
• Environmental Researcher: Conduct studies on sustainability and ecological issues.
• Data Analyst for Geographic Studies: Work with research institutions to analyze spatial and environmental data.

Job Outlook and Growth Opportunities

The demand for professionals like you with expertise in geography and environmental sustainability is growing. A quick look shows there are over 13,000 job listings for environmental sustainability degree holders, and that’s just on Indeed. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects significant growth in fields like urban planning, and salaries in these areas are competitive. For example, the median pay for Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians is $100,000. 

Industries Hiring Geography and Sustainability Graduates

Once you graduate with a degree in Geography and Environmental Sustainability, you can look for opportunities in multiple industries. Some include government agencies, nonprofits, and more.

Government Agencies

Organizations like the Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Geological Survey, and local planning departments need skilled professionals. These agencies offer roles in environmental analysis, policy development, and resource management.

Nonprofits

Conservation groups and sustainability-focused NGOs provide opportunities to work on projects that protect natural habitats and promote sustainable practices. These roles often involve fieldwork, research, and advocacy.

Tech and Data Companies

Companies like Google Earth and ESRI specialize in GIS. Their positions involve data analysis, mapping, and spatial intelligence. These roles are perfect for tech-savvy graduates who enjoy working with cutting-edge technology.

Urban Planning and Infrastructure

Firms focusing on city development and transportation need professionals who can design sustainable infrastructure and develop efficient transit solutions. These roles are crucial for creating livable, eco-friendly urban environments.

Energy and Environmental Consulting

Consulting firms address corporate sustainability and regulatory compliance. These roles involve advising businesses on how to reduce their environmental footprint and comply with environmental laws.

How UTSA’s Online Geography and Environmental Sustainability Degree Prepares You

As you can see, you’ll learn highly in-demand skills through UTSA Online’s Geography and Environmental Sustainability program. Whether you’re interested in studying GIS, urban planning, or environmental management, you’ll be well-rounded upon graduation.  

UTSA is also well known for its 100% online programs. The department has landed in the top 100 in the U.S. News and World Report’s list for best online bachelor’s programs for three consecutive years. 

Take the Next Step Toward Your Geography and Sustainability Career

With a Geography and Environmental Sustainability degree, you’ll unlock a world of career options where you can make an impact. Whether you’re looking to advance in your current career or change to a new one, you’ll have the knowledge and skills you need to succeed.

You have the potential to make a significant difference in the world. By choosing this path, you’re not just investing in your education. You’re committing to a cause that benefits our planet and future generations.