Geography Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in geography. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

SOC: 25-1064.00

Common Job Titles

  • Associate Professor
  • Geography Instructor
  • Geography Professor
  • Professor

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeSynthesize geographic theories, spatial analysis methods, and interdisciplinary research findings when designing and delivering postsecondary geography curricula across physical, human, and technical geography subfields.
  • KnowledgeDevelop original research projects investigating spatial phenomena, environmental change, or human geography topics for publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentation at academic conferences.
  • KnowledgeDesign field-based learning experiences and laboratory exercises integrating GPS technology, environmental sensors, and field observation methods to reinforce geographic concepts.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate student comprehension of spatial concepts and geographic methodologies through examination of written assignments, research projects, and oral presentations in university settings.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze geospatial data and cartographic information using GIS software to demonstrate spatial relationships, environmental patterns, and human-environment interactions in academic research and instruction.
  • MindsetIntegrate diverse pedagogical approaches and learning technologies to engage undergraduate and graduate students with varied learning styles and academic backgrounds.
  • KnowledgeInterpret complex geographic data sets, remote sensing imagery, and spatial statistics when preparing lectures, laboratory exercises, and multimedia instructional materials.
  • Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of ArcGIS, ERDAS IMAGINE, and other geospatial analysis platforms when instructing students in cartographic design, spatial modeling, and geostatistical analysis techniques.
  • MindsetAdvocate for geographic literacy and spatial thinking skills through curriculum development, public scholarship, and community engagement initiatives.
  • MindsetSupport student intellectual development and professional mentorship by providing constructive feedback, advising thesis research, and facilitating graduate student career preparation.

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Geography Teachers, Postsecondary (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

3,290

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $49,990. 25th percentile: U.S. $66,400. 50th percentile: U.S. $86,730. 75th percentile: U.S. $120,220. 90th percentile: U.S. $164,350. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$49,990
10% of workers earn the following or more$164,350
Workers on average earn$99,020

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • English Language4.8/5
  • Geography4.8/5
  • Education and Training4.3/5
  • History and Archeology3.4/5
  • Mathematics3.3/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Adobe Creative Cloud software
  • ESRI ArcGIS software
  • Google Docs
  • IBM SPSS Statistics
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Word
  • Mozilla Firefox
  • The MathWorks MATLAB

Technology Skills

  • Adobe Acrobat Reader
  • Blackboard Learn
  • Calendar and scheduling software
  • Caliper Maptitude
  • Clark Labs CartaLinx
  • Clark Labs IDRISI
  • Collaborative editing software
  • Course management system software
Tools & Technology: Technology Skills

Tools & Equipment

  • Carousel slide projectors
  • Cathode ray tube CRT projectors
  • Compact digital cameras
  • Compact disk CD players
  • Computer data input scanners
  • Computer laser printers
  • Computer projectors
  • Conference telephones
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment