Ambassadors - Geography Teaching Today

- Geographical Techniques

Do you enjoy map work and using software such as Google Earth?

Geographical information systems give geographers the electronic tools to show a range of data on maps to analyse and help us understand changing patterns in both the natural and human landscape. With increasing domestic and commercial applications of electronic mapping software and GPS gadgets, people are becoming more aware of the potential of this sector. There are a wide range of interesting jobs in the UK and abroad.

At university and in subsequent employment you will need to be able to demonstrate good interpersonal skills, communication and teamwork. In addition a keen interest in cartography and good all round graphical and technical skills, you will need an interest in data handling and interpretation, fine attention to detail and the ability to self motivate and carry out independent research and decision making.

Today, GIS is routinely used by a wide variety of public and private-sector employers ranging from specialised large employers such as the Ordnance survey, through to small independent GIS companies with just a few employees. Plentiful opportunities exist with national government departments (The Civil Service), the military, energy and water suppliers, retail companies and local councils.

The following areas are popular choices for geographers with a Geographical Techniques specialism.