Is a geography degree a soft option?

HOW condescending for Professor Danny Dorling to describe a geography degree as a soft option for posh, but dim, school-leavers (Mail). My daughter went to a state secondary, gained excellent exam results and studied geography at university. As with most degrees, it involved three years of hard work and exams. She’s now teaching geography in a state secondary.

KAY YOUNG, London SE24.

GEOGRAPHY is the subject that understands the interdependent nature of global, environmental and social challenges. This compelling content has helped drive the number of pupils studying it over the past decade. Geography is very far from being a soft option. It has been strengthened at GCSE and A-level, with more rigorous expectations for mathematical and statistical work and extended writing. Employment statistics and remuneration for geography graduates compares very well with other subjects. However, I agree with Professor Dorling that universities could ensure this vital subject to our shared future is taken up by a greater diversity of students. ALAN KINDER, chief executive, The geographical Association, Sheffield.

TOM UTLEY sneers at students on golf management or surf studies degrees. He no doubt feels the same about hospitality, business studies and travel and tourism courses, but at least all of these students have an eye on a future career. There is much snobbery about vocational education and training. Targets for mathematics, science and language teachers have not been met because too few youngsters study these subjects at university. Perhaps better career advice about how these courses could lead to careers other than teaching might lead to a bigger take-up at degree level.

SALLY BUTLER, Rustington, W. Sussex.