Cartographers and Photogrammetrists

Research, study, and prepare maps and other spatial data in digital or graphic form for one or more purposes, such as legal, social, political, educational, and design purposes. May work with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). May design and evaluate algorithms, data structures, and user interfaces for GIS and mapping systems. May collect, analyze, and interpret geographic information provided by geodetic surveys, aerial photographs, and satellite data.

$78,380
Median Annual Pay
Jobs growth:
+6% projected 2024โ€“2034
Bachelor's degree
Typical Entry-Level Education

What They Do

Cartographers and photogrammetrists transform geographic data into maps and visual representations that help people navigate, plan, and understand the world around them. They collect information from various sources including aerial photographs, satellite imagery, ground surveys, and existing maps, then analyze this data using sophisticated computer systems. Much of their work involves Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software, where they design digital maps for purposes ranging from urban planning and environmental management to navigation apps and emergency response planning. They verify the accuracy of spatial data, update existing maps to reflect changes in terrain or development, and ensure their products meet technical specifications and legal requirements.

Programs That Prepare You

College programs linked to this occupation, ranked by graduate earnings

Geography and Cartography(masters)Wilmington University, DE
$80,562
Engineering-Related Technologies(bachelors)California State University-Fresno, CA
$78,518
Geography and Cartography(masters)Johns Hopkins University, MD
$75,503
Geography and Cartography(masters)University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI
$74,365
Geography and Cartography(masters)California State University-Long Beach, CA
$73,531
Surveying Engineering(bachelors)Ferris State University, MI
$72,931
Geography and Cartography(masters)University of Washington-Seattle Campus, WA
$67,975
Geography and Cartography(masters)University of Washington-Tacoma Campus, WA
$67,975
Geography and Cartography(masters)Portland State University, OR
$67,045
Geography and Cartography(masters)Central Michigan University, MI
$65,663
Geography and Cartography(masters)Calvin University, MI
$65,663
Geography and Cartography(masters)Christian Brothers University, TN
$65,663
Geography and Cartography(masters)Brigham Young University, UT
$65,663
Geography and Cartography(masters)Auburn University, AL
$65,663
Geography and Cartography(masters)Colorado State University-Fort Collins, CO
$65,663
Geography and Cartography(masters)CUNY Lehman College, NY
$65,663
Geography and Cartography(masters)California State University-Los Angeles, CA
$65,663
Geography and Cartography(masters)Binghamton University, NY
$65,663
Geography and Cartography(masters)California State University-Fullerton, CA
$65,663
Geography and Cartography(masters)California State University-Northridge, CA
$65,663
Geography and Cartography(masters)Chicago State University, IL
$65,663
Geography and Cartography(masters)Ball State University, IN
$65,663
Geography and Cartography(masters)Central Connecticut State University, CT
$65,663
Geography and Cartography(masters)Boston University, MA
$65,663
Geography and Cartography(masters)California State University-East Bay, CA
$65,663

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