How to Be Physical Geographer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 12, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Physical geography is the study of the physical features of the Earth and its atmosphere, and how these features affect the environment and human activity. It is a broad field, encompassing many different aspects including climate, environment, landforms, geology, hydrology, oceanography, ecology and biogeography. Physical geography can be used to understand the causes and effects of natural phenomena, as well as how humans interact with and alter their environment.

For example, by examining the effects of deforestation on soil erosion, physical geographers can help understand how human activities impact the climate and lead to changes in land use and land cover. Similarly, by studying the effects of climate change on the ocean's currents and marine life, physical geographers can help develop strategies to protect our planet's delicate ecosystems.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. Most physical geographers start their careers by earning a bachelor's degree in geography, geology, earth science, environmental science or a related field. Coursework in these programs typically includes physical geography, geomorphology, soils and hydrology.
Pursue an Advanced Degree. Many physical geographers continue their education by earning a master's degree or doctoral degree in geography or a related field. During graduate school, physical geographers often specialize in an area such as atmospheric science, climate change or urban geography.
Obtain Certification. Some geographers choose to obtain certification from the American Association of Geographers. This certification is voluntary and requires candidates to have at least three years of experience in the field and pass an exam.
Gain Experience. Many physical geographers gain valuable experience by participating in research projects or working as research assistants. They may also take part in field trips or study abroad programs to gain hands-on experience in their chosen field.
Find Employment. Physical geographers typically find employment with government agencies, environmental organizations, consulting firms and educational institutions. Job duties may include conducting field research, preparing maps and reports, analyzing data or teaching classes.

Physical geographers study the landforms, bodies of water, climate, soils, and natural vegetation of the Earth. With their expertise, they can identify and analyze environmental changes, both natural and human-induced, and develop strategies to protect resources and sustain healthy ecosystems. Reliable and efficient physical geography requires accurate data collection and analysis.

This can be achieved through the use of satellite imagery, aerial photography, GIS software, global positioning systems (GPS), and remote sensing. By utilizing these tools, physical geographers can produce high-resolution maps of terrain features, assess the health of vegetation, measure changes in land cover and soil moisture, and detect changes in atmospheric conditions. physical geographers can use the data to identify potential risks related to climate change, land degradation, water shortages, and other environmental threats.

By understanding how physical geography impacts our environment, physical geographers can develop effective solutions to preserve the planet for future generations.

You may want to check Oceanography Professor, Cartography Technician, and Remote Sensing Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Research Physical Geographer
Physical Geography Professor
Cartographer
Remote Sensing Scientist
GIS Analyst
Climate Change Analyst
Hydrologist
Environmental Consultant
Planning Policy Analyst
Geospatial Engineer

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of physical geography and GIS
Ability to analyze geographic data and develop models to identify patterns and trends
Understanding of climate change and its effects on the environment
Ability to interpret and analyze aerial photographs, satellite images, and other geospatial data
Competency in the use of GIS software, including ArcGIS, QGIS, and ArcPy
Familiarity with remote sensing techniques
Knowledge of geographic information systems and their applications
Ability to utilize spatial analysis techniques to create maps and other visual representations of data
Understanding of the principles of cartography and map making
Skill in using a variety of mapping software packages
Experience with GPS systems
Familiarity with the principles of geodesy, geomorphology, hydrology, oceanography, and glaciology
Knowledge of the impact of human activities on the environment

Physical geography is the study of the physical features of the Earth, such as the atmosphere, landforms, soils, and climates. It is an essential skill for any physical geographer to have a comprehensive understanding of the environment and its various components. This knowledge allows them to identify patterns, analyze data, and make predictions about the future of the environment.

A physical geographer must also be able to assess the impacts of human activities on the environment, understand the effects of climate change, and develop solutions for environmental protection. By understanding how different environmental factors interact with one another, physical geographers can help to mitigate negative environmental impacts and create more sustainable solutions. having a deep understanding of the Earth's physical makeup and dynamics is key for physical geographers to be able to accurately assess, analyze, and predict how the environment will respond to different factors.

Glaciologist, Cartographer, and GIS Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What has been your most meaningful physical geography research project?
How do you interpret aerial photographs and satellite imagery?
What techniques do you use to model and analyze geographic data?
What experience do you have with Geographic Information Systems (GIS)?
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest trends in physical geography?
How do you use geospatial technologies to analyze and solve issues related to physical geography?
How do you interpret maps, diagrams, and other visuals related to physical geography?
In what ways do you think physical geography contributes to the understanding of global climate change?
What strategies do you use to communicate complex physical geography concepts and data?
What challenges have you faced while conducting physical geography research?

Common Tools in Industry

Geographic Information Systems (GIS). A computer mapping system used to store, manipulate, and analyze geographic data, such as population and land use maps. (e. g. ArcGIS and QGIS)
Remote Sensing. The collection of data about an object or environment from a distance, typically using aerial photography or satellite imagery. (e. g. Landsat and MODIS)
Topographic Maps. Maps that portray the physical features of a landscape, such as elevation, landforms, vegetation, and bodies of water. (e. g. USGS topographic maps)
Global Positioning Systems (GPS). A system of satellites and receivers used to determine the precise geographic location of an object. (e. g. Garmin and TomTom)
Statistical Analysis. The collection and analysis of data to identify patterns and trends in order to draw conclusions or make predictions. (e. g. SPSS and SAS)
Cartography. The art and science of creating maps and charts in order to communicate spatial information. (e. g. Adobe Illustrator and ArcGIS Pro)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Association of Geographers (AAG)
Association of American Geographers (AAG)
European Association of Geographers (EAG)
International Association of Geomorphologists (IAG)
International Geographical Union (IGU)
International Union for Quaternary Research (INQUA)
National Council for Geographic Education (NCGE)
Society of Economic Geographers (SEG)
International Mountain Society (IMS)
Geographic Information Science and Technology Association (GISTA)

We also have Field Geographer, Archaeological Surveyor, and Archaeological Technician jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Hydrology. The branch of science concerned with the properties and distribution of water on Earth and other planets.
Biogeography. The study of the geographical distribution of living organisms and their interactions with the environment.
Climatology. The scientific study of climate, its causes, and effects on the environment.
Landscape Ecology. The study of how living organisms interact with their physical environment.
Geomorphology. The scientific study of the origin, evolution, and form of landforms such as mountains, valleys, and plateaus.
Cartography. The art and science of making maps and charts.
Remote Sensing. The use of aerial photographs and other technology to take measurements from a distance.
Soil Science. The study of soils and their physical, chemical, and biological properties.
Glaciology. The scientific study of the formation, behavior, and effects of glaciers.
Pedology. The scientific study of soil, including its physical, chemical, and biological properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the definition of Physical Geography? A1: Physical Geography is the study of the physical features of the Earth's surface, including landforms, climates, soils, and natural vegetation. Q2: What type of skills are needed to become a Physical Geographer? A2: Physical Geographers need strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as knowledge of geography, earth science, ecology, and GIS software. Q3: What type of career opportunities are available for Physical Geographers? A3: Career opportunities for Physical Geographers include positions in government agencies, research labs, consulting firms, and educational institutions. Q4: What qualifications are necessary to pursue a career in Physical Geography? A4: To pursue a career in Physical Geography, you will typically need an undergraduate degree in geography or a related field, such as earth science, ecology, or environmental science. Q5: What areas of research are commonly studied by Physical Geographers? A5: Areas of research commonly studied by Physical Geographers include landform evolution, climate change, soil erosion and deposition, vegetation dynamics, hydrological systems, and human-environment interactions.

Web Resources

Physical Geography | Portland State University www.pdx.edu
Physical Geography | Department of Geography | College of Arts ... geography.sdsu.edu
Physical Geography and Climatic Studies | Department of geography.osu.edu