Cartography, or mapping, involves studying a specific terrain and using information gathered to create an accurate map. This area of study was especially important during the last several centuries, as European countries set out to explore the world and claim vast territories. By now, these areas have been mapped hundreds of times. But cartography remains an important career field. This owes to the rapid pace at which terrains and demographics change, as well as the public’s growing concern with environmental issues.

Many people continue to hold the mistaken belief that cartography is synonymous with surveying. Although a small minority of cartographers hold outdoor jobs in areas such as surveying and aerial photography, most cartographers work indoors. In recent years, cartography has largely transitioned to the digital world, although manual techniques still are important skills for modern cartographers. Most cartographers work either for private mapping companies, or for public agencies such as the Geological Survey or the Department of Natural Resources. Others find employment in colleges or universities as professors, cartography librarians or in research.

Entry into the field of cartography requires, at minimum, a high school diploma and a degree in geology, geography and cartography. Employers prefer applicants with degrees in cartography, as they are better prepared in mapmaking and usually have experience with the digital programs that have become prominent in the cartography field. In many cases, a master’s degree is necessary for advancement and is always a requirement for those who wish to research or teach cartography at the university level.

Cartography retains a surprisingly positive job outlook, despite the recent economic downturn. Job growth skyrocketed in the late twentieth century, but has remained moderate during the beginning of the twenty-first century. A moderate level of growth is predicted, especially in areas of cartography that relate to environmental research. Starting salaries average around $40,000, but more experienced cartographers can expect to earn an annual income of $55,000-$70,000.