Top 10 Reasons to Study Geography

Geography is the study of the world. It involves understanding both the natural world as well as the man made influences we have introduced into the picture. The study of geography involves both natural sciences, or the study of physical geography, and social sciences, or human geography. Seen in this light, the importance of this field of study is hard to overlook.

There are many compelling reasons why you should study geography. Here are ten of the top reasons.

1. You’ll become more worldly

Geography provides you with a context in which you can understand the world around you better. This includes everything from natural phenomena, land distributions, populations, weather, migration, etc.

Studying geography is a little like putting all the pieces of a very difficult puzzle together; when you’re done, everything clicks and you have one of those ‘AHA!’ moments.

2. There is a High Demand for Geography Majors

Geography majors are in high demand and there is currently a huge shortage in the number of applicants for these positions. That means that studying geography would open numerous doors for you in terms of employment.

In addition, jobs which are seeking geography majors typically involve a certain amount of travelling. These jobs are exciting and engaging, and are waiting to be applied for!

3. You’ll Get to Dabble in a Variety of Subjects

One of the fantastic things about geography is that it merges together numerous different subjects under it’s one head. You’ll get to learn a little bit about everything from physics, biology, economics, sociology, politics, art, political science, chemistry, history, and more!

If you were ever worried about limiting yourself in terms of what you could study, you can put all those fears to rest if you choose to study geography.

4. You’ll have a context for history

History isn’t just a collection of past events; it has massive ramifications for the present and future. Like geography, history is a dynamic subject to study. Knowing geography helps to put the course of world history into perspective, and it helps us to understand it better.

For instance, understanding Britain’s historical reach is only possible if you have a proper understanding of the factors which enabled them to accomplish what they did, including the geography of the land. The English Channel was instrumental in helping the British spread their power.  Furthermore, decisions about wars and conquests were also influenced by various geographical factors.

With a sound understanding of geography, you’ll better understand the events of the past and their significance.

5. Strengthen your navigation skills

One might argue that in the age of smartphones, is it really necessary to have a sound understanding of practical navigational skills? The short answer is yes. In many ways, the technologies which enable us are still limited. Furthermore, these technologies themselves have been influenced and created by the study of geography.

If you know geography, you can rest assured that you’ll have better navigational skills than your phone. You also won’t have to worry about getting lost if your phone runs out of battery.  

6. You’ll understand what’s happening in the world

Globalization and the various events that are unfolding in the modern day world are all influenced by geography. That includes everything from the Syrian refugee crisis to the current political environment in Europe and the United States.

Context is everything and once again, geography provides the perspective you need to better understand what’s happening around you.

7. Better equipped to deal with the challenges of the future

The study of geography influences every aspect of our world. The future is being shaped by a plethora of forces and to adequately face the challenges of the future, you’ll be better off if you have knowledge of geography. Everything from politics, climate change, and business is being shaped by geographical factors.

8. Potential for earning more

The next couple of years are going to see a huge boom in jobs which are related to geography. The reason for that is quite simple: the vast majority of jobs require at least some component of the study of geography.

Your knowledge of geography will make you an asset in the job market and has the potential to increase your earning capabilities.

9. Better understanding of the physical world

One of the central aspects of geography is understanding the physical world. This knowledge will increase your understanding of things like natural disasters, climate, the water cycle, and more. The study of geography developed so as to help humans make better choices, which were influenced by an understanding of the physical world.

10. Appreciate the Cultural Diversity of the World

Different cultures all over the world are influenced by where they are located. Their precise location on the planet will determine the types of food, clothing, social structures and architecture, which is characteristic of that culture. Every facet of a culture is affected by its geographical location.

Knowing geography will help you to understand and appreciate the rich cultures of the world.