Demographers study trends within populations, such as composition, distribution and changes.
Demographers can find permanent positions with organisations such as the Office of National Statistics, or more temporary work on projects for councils, and even non-governmental organisations working on overseas projects.
Typical work activities
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Collecting and analysing statistical data to find trends
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Using data to predict future trends
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Publicise possible future trends to government, social agencies and private clients
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Planning for and interpreting of census data
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Using modelling software to back up predictions
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Reviewing other sources of information to back up the findings from statistical analysis of data
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Designing surveys and undertaking data collection
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Compiling secondary data and collecting primary data
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Writing and publishing reports
Qualifications
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A bachelor’s degree in human geography may be beneficial, though physical geography with a master’s degree should also be relevant.
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A master’s degree is generally the minimum requirement for someone aiming for this role. Find a postgraduate course in demography or a closely related subject such as statistics.
Work experience
You are likely to need experience working with statistical packages such as SPSS and in data collection.