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Last week, the Society partnered with schools, universities, and geography professionals from across Greater Manchester and beyond for a Choose Geography open day, hosted by The Manchester Grammar School.

As the first event of its kind in 2026, the open day gave students an interactive insight into university life and the wide range of career options available to those who choose to study geography.

84 students from the host school, Withington Girls' School, Manchester High School, Stockport Grammar School and Aquinas College, took part. They were joined by professors and undergraduates from the University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, and the University of Salford

Together, they offered a snapshot of what it’s like to study geography at university and answered questions about their own academic journeys.

Recent graduates and professionals working in geographical roles, including members of the Manchester Urban Institute, also shared practical guidance on the day-to-day work of a geographer.

The day began with a lecture from Professor Jonny Huck of the University of Manchester, who took students through the fundamentals of GIS and demonstrated how it is being used to address global challenges - from supporting healthcare delivery in rural Uganda to helping reduce inter-group violence in Northern Ireland.

I did not understand the vast range of uses GIS has, as well as the lab work one can take part in whilst completing a geography degree.Student attendee

Students then broke into smaller groups to explore different branches of geography in more depth. Highlights included:

  • A geographical careers workshop led by the University of Salford, exploring key skills used by geographers across diverse sectors, with advice from early career professionals and final year students.
  • A physical geography workshop delivered by staff and students from Manchester Metropolitan University, examining the effects of climate change on Arctic and Alpine glaciers and the role of satellite imagery in monitoring and responding to these changes.
  • An urban geography session led by the Manchester Urban Institute, using a local case study, which focused on placemaking, inequality and how the built environment can be made more welcoming and functional for young people.

The event concluded with an undergraduate panel, where students shared their experiences of studying geography, offered practical advice, and hosted a Q&A on both academic and wider aspects of university life.

Last week’s open day is one of many opportunities available at the Society for students who want to know more about the possibilities and careers that studying geography can unlock.

For details of upcoming in-person and online student events - such as university application workshops, study days, career webinars, and resources for GCSE and A Level students - visit our Schools pages for students and teachers.

We also publish a free annual Choose Geography supplement in Geographical magazine.

A presenter speaks about graduate skills to a group of students.
© The Manchester Grammar School
  • A presenter speaks about graduate skills to a group of students.
  • Three students at a table participate in a workshop.
  • Three students looking at satellite glacier images on table.
  • A presenter wearing a lanyard speaks at a lectern.
  • Four presenters sitting on a stage speak to an audience off-sceen.

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