Cartography Degree

Have you ever looked at a globe or a map of the world and wondered how the map itself came to be? How did someone find a way to accurately display distances, sizes, borders, etc.?
Cartography is the science and study of learning both how to understand geography and then how to convey spatial information properly. Read on to get a better idea of what the field of cartography is all about.

Cartography is the study and practice of how to go about making maps. It involves aesthetics, various techniques, and science to be able to communicate spatial information in a cohesive and effective manner.

Career as a cartographer can be both dynamic and highly rewarding.  You would get to understand the geography of many different regions and then use tools and software to accurately map them out.
Becoming a cartographer can be an enjoyable career option for people who enjoy geography, are good at understanding different types of computer software, and are artistically or creatively inclined. It is an interdisciplinary field which is anything but routine; individuals in this profession are constantly mapping out new regions or modifying existing maps.

A cartographer can work to create many different types of maps. Some of these include:

• Maritime charts
• Road atlases
• Political maps
• Globes
• Tourist maps
• Climate maps
• Geological maps
• Satellite navigation maps

As a professional cartographer, some of the activities and responsibilities you may be required to carry out include:

• Carry out topographic surveys of land
• Use geographical information systems (GIS) to model landscapes and features
• Determine the height and positioning of various landscape features using aerial photographs
• Work with surveyors and designers when making maps
• Ensure that maps and charts are accurate and to scale
• Collect data and analyze it from satellites, planes, etc.
• Design different types of maps in different mediums
• Constantly edit maps as geographic features and landscapes change
• Use special mapping software

The time it takes to become a cartographer will vary from person to person. Firstly, you must consider what your particular career goals and aspirations are and how much time you are willing to spend on getting an education.
In some cases, it may be possible to seek work as a cartographer after the completion of your bachelor’s degree. You will be required to gain some experience and with time, you may be able to work as a full time cartographer.
Bachelor’s programs take 4 years to complete and master’s programs take about 2 years to complete. You will also need to factor in some time which you will need to allocate to practical experience.

Bachelor’s in Cartography

Those individuals interested in pursuing cartography may enroll in a bachelor’s program with a major or concentration in cartography or a degree in geography or surveying. These programs include both class-room components as well as practical laboratory components. Students can expect to get an introduction to all the key components of geography and mapping, also on how to use software and different tools to map.
Bachelor’s degree programs typically take 4 years to complete.
Entry Requirements

• High school diploma with an acceptable GPA
• Good SAT and ACT scores – the precise score may be determined by the university you are applying to
• Letters of recommendation
• It is recommended that you have taken courses in geography in high school

Curriculum
Throughout the course of the degree, students can expect to learn:

• Foundational geography
• Earth science
• Human geography
• Geospatial analysis
• Introduction to cartography
• Computer mapping
• Aerial photo interpretation
• Remote sensing 

Masters in cartography

Master’s degree programs in cartography give students a thorough understanding of cartography through research and practical experience. There are some universities that even offer students the opportunity to specialize in a particular area such as physical geography, human geography, or Geographic Information Systems (GIS). These programs typically take 2 years to complete.
Entry requirements

• Bachelor’s degree, not necessarily in cartography
• Must have taken foundational courses in either geography or cartography
• GRE scores
• Letters of recommendation

Curriculum
Through research and practical experience, students will learn about many of the tools and methods used in the field of cartography. Some of the courses which students may take include:

• GIS modeling
• Remote sensing
• Advanced geography
• The history of cartography
• Spatial analysis
• Graphic design in cartography
• Geographic Information Systems

Ph.D. in Cartography

A Ph.D. in cartography is specifically intended for those who seek to explore the research and academic aspects of the field. Most often, a Ph.D. in geography is pursued with a concentration in cartography.
Entry requirements

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in cartography or geography
• Letters of recommendation

It is important to note here that entry requirements may vary. Every school and program has its own set of requirements. Students must satisfy all the entry requirements to be considered as a candidate.

With a degree in cartography, one may choose to pursue the following careers:

• Civil engineer
• Surveyor
• Photogrammetrist
• Zoning inspector
• Real estate appraiser 
• Remote sensing specialist
• Demographer
• Cartographer
• Geographic information specialist

Data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that in 2012, the following professionals earned an annual median salary of:

• Cartographers and Photogrammetrists - $57,440
• Surveying and Mapping Technicians - $39,670
• Surveyors - $56,230
• Appraisers and Assessors of Real Estate - $49,540

The cartographer profession looks especially promising with BLS forecasting a 20% employment growth in the field between 2012 and 2022.
Cartography is concerned with geographic information and the translation of that information into the form of maps. The study of cartography involves history, geography, math, and aesthetic awareness. There are a number of different educational options to pursue if you are interested in this field. In addition, with a degree in cartography, there are a number of different career paths you may be able to choose.