Career roadmap
How to Become a Geography Professor
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a geography professor, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a geography professor: (1) earn a geography bachelor’s, (2) do research, (3) complete a Ph.D., (4) publish, (5) get hired. Most people need about 5–7 years after a bachelor’s. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a geography professor
Earn a geography bachelor’s
GIS courses.
Do research
Projects.
Complete a Ph.D.
Research.
Publish
Articles.
Get hired
Faculty role.
Education and training requirements
A Ph.D. in geography is typical for universities.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 5–7 years after a bachelor’s |
Certifications and licenses
- Ph.D. in geography: Doctoral degree.
- GISP: GIS professional certification.
- Esri technical certification: Software credential.
- Research grants: NSF and others.
Skills to build now
Start with gis, spatial analysis, and cartography, and practice communication and curiosity. Learning the geography professor vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Graduate Instructor: Train.
- Assistant Professor: Tenure track.
- Associate Professor: Tenure.
- Professor or Chair: Lead departments.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Geography Professor training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a geography professor?
Most people need about 5–7 years after a bachelor’s of training. A Ph.D. in geography is typical for universities.
Do you need a degree to be a geography professor?
Usually. BLS lists a doctoral degree as typical for postsecondary teachers. Universities generally require a Ph.D., while community colleges often hire instructors with a master’s degree.
What certifications are available for geography professors?
Common credentials include Ph.D. in geography, GISP, Esri technical certification, and Research grants. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-1064 (Geography teachers, postsecondary).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Geography teachers, postsecondary (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.