Download Why Study Geography

Why study Geography at Bearsden Academy?
Why should you study Geography?
There are many reasons - Here are just three quotes:
"Geography is the subject which holds the key to
our future" - Michael Palin,
"Geography prepares for the world of work geographers, with their skills of analysis are highly
employable!"
"Without Geography - You are Knowhere!"
The study of Geography can help you to:
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Develop a knowledge and understanding of current events from the local area to the
global.
Investigate the earth and its peoples.
Study the features of the earth - such as mountains, rivers and seas - and how they were
formed
Develop a range of useful skills such as map reading, data collection, ICT and problem
solving.
Gain an understanding and appreciation of the cultures and backgrounds of people from
all over the world
What will you study?
A range of topics, both physical and human, will be studied. This includes Rich World, Poor World,
Urban, Rural, Weather, Glaciation and Coasts.
How successful will I be?
Well this depends on you! In the past 4 years the Geography department has achieved excellent
SQA results, and our pupils have reported that they enjoy the subject and the opportunities that are
created within the department. The Geography department are keen that you enjoy the subject, but
that you also find success in it. We will work with you to achieve this.
What qualities do I need to study Geography?
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You should have a keen interest in the world around you.
You should be prepared to work hard and research topics by yourself.
The department are keen to help you achieve the best that you can.
Where will Geography take me?
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Well for a start - You will probably visit lots more countries than your parents and travel to
areas of the world only normally seen on television.
Geography could lead you to exciting career prospects - Remember geography achieves
good examination results nationally and is one of the most versatile subjects.
Geography is classified as a science subject in many universities when studied at Higher
Level.
Look on the Careers section for a comprehensive list of careers which Geography is
useful for!
Careers in Geography?
The study of Geography can take you down a number of career pathways. Geography
graduates are some of the most employable of all graduates. Employers like Geography graduates
because of their broad skills base and understanding of the world that we live in. Traditional
Geography careers include:
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Town Planner
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Geography
Teacher
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Meteorologist and
Climatologist
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Vulcanologist
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Tourism Industry
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Surveying
Transport
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The Foreign Office
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National Parks
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Environmental
Agencies
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Geographic
Information
Systems (GIS)
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Development
industry
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Water and
Forestry Agencies
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Resource
Management
However, being a Geography graduate does not only restrict you only to Geography related careers.
Geography graduates can easily enter other careers, including:
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Oil Industry
Journalism
Business
Law
Accountancy
Banking and insurance
Importance of Geography
Two of the most important issues facing the world today are; climate change and globalisation. Both of
these issues are Geography related. However, it is not just climate change and globalisation that makes
Geography so important. It is also; population growth, resource management, hazard management,
multiculturalism, industrial growth, economic development and much more. If you study Geography you
are learning about issues that affect us and the world on a daily basis. To appreciate its relevance, watch
the news and you will realise that nearly every issue is related to Geography in some way.