From cartography to spatial planning: opportunities for careers in the geosector

The geo-sector is an exciting and diverse area that deals with the collection, analysis and presentation of geographical information. These include cartography, geodesy, geography, geoinformatics and spatial planning. In this article, we would like to give you an overview of career opportunities in the geo-sector and show you what qualifications and skills you need to do so.

Chapter 1: Cartography — the art of map making

Cartography is the science of making maps. It deals with the collection, analysis and presentation of geographical information on maps. Cartographers work both in science and in practice and create maps for various purposes, such as state surveying, transport planning, environmental planning or defense.

To become a cartographer, you should study cartography, geodesy, geography, or geoinformatics. You will learn how to collect, process and visualize geographical data. You acquire knowledge in GIS (Geographic Information Systems), photogrammetry, cartography software and technologies, and statistical methods. An internship or a thesis at a company or an authority can help you gain initial practical experience and establish contacts in the industry.

Chapter 2: Geodesy — the science of surveying

Geodesy is the science of surveying and deals with the collection, analysis and presentation of geometric information about the earth. Geodesics work in land surveying, cadastral systems, surveying technology, surveying software development and geodesy research.

Studying geodesy, geography or geoinformatics is the basis for a career in geodesy. You will acquire knowledge in areas such as photogrammetry, GPS, remote sensing and soil mechanics.

An internship or a thesis at a surveying company or an authority can help you gain initial practical experience and make valuable contacts in the industry.

Chapter 3: Geography — the Science of the Earth

Geography is the science of the Earth and investigates the relationships between natural and social phenomena on Earth. Geographers work in science, education, environmental planning, regional development, and resource management.

Studying geography can open up a wide range of career opportunities in the geo-industry. You will acquire knowledge in areas such as Physical Geography, Human Geography, Climate Research, Geographic Information Systems, and Resource Management. Internships or theses with environmental authorities, regional development agencies or resource companies can help you gain initial practical experience and establish valuable contacts in the sector.

Chapter 4: Geoinformatics — the combination of geography and informatics

Geoinformatics is the combination of geography and informatics and deals with the collection, storage, analysis and presentation of geographical information using computer technology. Geoinformatics specialists work in science, cartography, geodesy, environmental planning, regional development, and resource management.

Studying geoinformatics, cartography, geodesy or geography is the basis for a career in geoinformatics. You will acquire knowledge in areas such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems), remote sensing, statistical methods, programming and data analysis. Internships or theses with companies or authorities in the fields of geography, surveying, environment or planning can help you gain initial practical experience and establish valuable contacts in the industry.

Chapter 5: Spatial planning — the planning and design of spaces

Spatial planning is the planning and design of spaces and deals with the development and organization of cities, regions and rural areas. Spatial planners work in urban and regional planning, housing and transport construction, nature conservation and environmental management. They develop concepts and plans for the development of spaces and coordinate the implementation of projects.

Studying spatial planning, architecture, urban or regional development or geography is the basis for a career in spatial planning. You will acquire knowledge in areas such as urban and regional development, housing and transport construction, nature protection and environmental management, as well as legal and planning principles. Internships or theses with planning authorities, architecture or urban development companies or nature conservation organizations can help you gain initial practical experience and establish valuable contacts in the industry.

Conclusion:

The geo-industry offers a variety of opportunities for careers involving the collection, analysis, and presentation of geographical information. These include cartography, geodesy, geography, geoinformatics and spatial planning. To be successful in one of these areas, you should study in a relevant subject area and gain practical experience through internships or theses.