Why study Geographic Information Systems : ?

The online Master of Science Degree Program in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) from the Department of Geography and Geographic Information Science focuses on educating, training, and preparing students for careers in geospatial technologies; those careers expand beyond geography to include a vast number of occupations, trades, and sectors for which the needs for managing spatial data have been identified. This program’s focus achieves that vision by providing students with (1) a solid education in general concepts and functionality of current practices and techniques in GIS, cartography, and remote sensing; (2) frequent opportunities to apply these concepts by practicing with and using ArcGIS software with both its standard and customizable functionality; and (3) through developing advanced GIS techniques that include integrating spatial and tabular data, visualizing spatial data, and modeling spatial relationships. This focus is defined and formulated within a singular proposed structure of the program with six (6) required courses and four (4) elective courses, plus a capstone requirement. 

Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for applicants to this proposed program are as follows:

  1. A bachelor’s degree in Geography, GIS, or a related field from an accredited college or university in the United States or an equivalent degree from another country
  2. A minimum grade-point average of 3.00 or foreign equivalent
  3. A short essay (no longer than 2 pages in length) that briefly and cogently describes the student’s educational background, past research / work experience, and reasons for pursuing this degree
  4. A resume or Curriculum Vita (CV)
  5. International applicants who possess a degree from a university in a non-English-speaking country must have proof of English proficiency through either of the following:
    1. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), with a minimum score of 88 (internet-based test), 230 (computer-based test), or 570 (paper-based test); or
    2. International English Language Testing System (IELTS), with a minimum score of 6.5
  6. Application deadlines are as follows:
    1. July 1 for fall semesters
    2. December 1 for spring semesters
    3. April 1 for summer semesters

The online MS in GIS is intended to target (1) traditional college-age students looking to continue their education at the graduate level; (2) non-traditional college students pursuing education on both a full-time and part-time basis for career / occupation changes; and (3) working professionals who desire advanced GIS skills for job requirements, career advancement, or for supplemental training / enrichment.

The information provided is sourced from a third party, Lightcast. Their product, called Career Coach, combines extensive labor market data from Lightcast and the U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics. It provides insights on industry, occupation, compensation, and projected growth for each profession. Economic and workforce information is available for various geographic regions. Some careers may require additional training or education.

Explore unique opportunities, faculty, and resources available in Geography & GIS

The University of Cincinnati and all regional campuses are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Contact Information

Kevin Raleigh
2825 Campus Way, 401 Braunstein Hall
Cincinnati, OH 45221
(513) 556-3422
raleigkn@ucmail.uc.edu

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Program Code: 15MAS-GIS-MS-.GIS-DL