Graduate Programs

Student Learning Outcomes

Master of Science in Geographic Information Science (M.S.)

The Master of Science in Geographic Information Science prepares students for professional careers or advanced graduate studies in the field through seminars, lectures, laboratory, internship, and faculty-supervised research. In addition to developing an understanding of key foundational concepts, methodological processes, and analytical skills in geographic information science, graduates of the MS GIS program will demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the literature in at least one subfield or application area of geographic information science; develop a research proposal and carry out a research project under faculty supervision; and demonstrate the ability to professionally communicate research findings in oral, written, and graphic forms. Students completing the Geographic Information Science M.S. curriculum will:

  • Understand key foundational concepts, methodological processes, and analytical skills in Geographic information science.
  • Be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the literature in at least one subfield or application area of geographic information science.
  • Be able to develop a research proposal and carry out a research project under faculty supervision.
  • Be able to demonstrate the ability to professionally communicate research findings in oral, written and graphic forms.

Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science

The Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science prepares students for employment in positions where the creation, management, analysis, and presentation of spatial information are crucial. The program focuses on developing understanding of key foundational concepts, methodological processes, and analytical skills in geographic information science through seminars, lectures, and laboratory courses. Graduates of the program will understand the principles underlying the use of spatial information technologies in theoretical and applied settings, and demonstrate the ability to design, analyze, and interpret spatial analytical problems. Students completing the Geographical Information Science certification will:

  • Understand key foundational concepts, methodological processes, and analytical skills in geographic information science.
  • Understand the principles underlying the use of spatial information technologies in theoretical and applied settings.
  • Be able to demonstrate the creation, management, analysis, and presentation of spatial information.
  • Be able to demonstrate the ability to design, analyze, and interpret spatial analytical problems.