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Geographic Information Sciences

Geographic Information Science - M.G.I.Sc.

The Geographic Information Science M.G.I.Sc. degree prepares you for a career at the forefront of geospatial technology. With a blend of technical knowledge and practical experience, you'll learn to analyze and manage geospatial data and make informed decisions.

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Master's in Geographic Information Science

Kent State University's Master of Geographic Information Science (M.GISc) offers a comprehensive, professional-focused program designed to equip students with advanced skills in geospatial technologies and spatial data analysis. The curriculum covers key areas such as remote sensing, spatial modeling, and cartographic design, preparing students to apply GIS in fields like urban planning, environmental management, and public health. Through hands-on projects and cutting-edge tools, the M.GISc program prepares graduates for leadership roles in industries where spatial analysis is essential, positioning them to solve complex geographic problems and contribute to data-driven decision-making.

Program Information for Geographic Information Science - M.G.I.Sc.

Program Description

Program Description

Full Description

The Master of Geographic Information Science degree provides students with skills that extend beyond simply understanding software features or capabilities. Students develop a more robust understanding of how GIS functions across different sectors and have a positive impact on some of the greatest global challenges today, including climate change, transportation, and public health. Students have the opportunity to design and manage geographic information technologies to develop and improve the tools and systems people rely on every day

Graduates of the program are prepared for analytical and managerial positions that utilize geospatial technologies. Those positions can be found in a number of sectors, ranging from real estate and healthcare to disaster relief and finance.

Admissions for Geographic Information Science - M.G.I.Sc.

Admissions

For more information about graduate admissions, visit the graduate admission website. For more information on international admissions, visit the international admission website.

Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in geography or a related field1
  • Minimum 2.750 undergraduate GPA on a 4.000-point scale
  • Official transcript(s)
  • Goal statement
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • English language proficiency - all international students must provide proof of English language proficiency (unless they meet specific exceptions to waive) by earning one of the following:2
    • Minimum 79 TOEFL iBT score
    • Minimum 6.5 IELTS score
    • Minimum 58 PTE score
    • Minimum 110 DET score
1

Requirement that the undergraduate degree must be in geography or related field may be waved with evidence of professional experience using geospatial technologies or alternative evidence of ability to excel in a geographic information science graduate program.

2

International applicants who do not meet the above test scores will not be considered for admission.

Application Deadlines

  • Fall Semester
    • Rolling admissions
  • Spring Semester
    • Rolling admissions

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

  1. Collect, edit, integrate, manage and analyze geospatial data.
  2. Demonstrate skills and working knowledge of commercial and open-source GIS application suites and utilities.
  3. Identify, explain and analyze spatial patterns, relationships and processes.
  4. Apply cartographic principles and techniques to create quality maps.
  5. Apply critical and spatial thinking to solve geospatial problems with respect to theories, principles and practices of geographic information science and fields in the degree concentration areas.
  6. Demonstrate good communication skills and ability to work in a team environment.

Coursework

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Program Requirements

Major Requirements

Major Requirements
GEOG 59071FUNDAMENTALS OF GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE I 3
GEOG 59081FUNDAMENTALS OF GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE II 3
GEOG 69164CARTOGRAPHIC DESIGN 3
GEOG 69231ENVIRONMENTAL REMOTE SENSING 3
Major Electives, choose from the following:12
CS 61002
ALGORITHMS AND PROGRAMMING I
CS 61003
ALGORITHMS AND PROGRAMMING II
EMAT 64210
DATA SCIENCE
GEOG 59072
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE AND HEALTH
GEOG 59075
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE: APPLICATIONS FOR SOCIAL PROBLEMS
GEOG 59076
SPATIAL PROGRAMMING
GEOG 59078
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE AND ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS
GEOG 69004
QUANTITATIVE METHODS IN GEOGRAPHY
GEOG 69007
SPATIOTEMPORAL ANALYTICS
GEOG 69073
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE: GLOBAL HEALTH
GEOG 69074
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE: SPATIAL ANALYSIS FOR HEALTH GEOGRAPHY
GEOG 69079
ENVIRONMENTAL GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE
GEOG 69082
CYBERGIS
GEOG 69083
GEODATABASES
Culminating Requirement
GEOG 69392PRACTICUM IN GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE 16
Minimum Total Credit Hours:30
1

As the capstone to the program, students will complete a practicum that is designed to provide practical experience in the application of M.G.I.Sc. degree course content in real-world professional settings. Students will select a professional project in consultation with their employer and program faculty and then will design, implement and report on their activities in a culminating professional paper.

Graduation Requirements
Minimum Major GPA Minimum Overall GPA
- 3.000
  • No more than one-half of a graduate student’s coursework may be taken in 50000-level courses.
  • Grades below C are not counted toward completion of requirements for the degree.
Program Delivery

Program Delivery

  • Delivery:
    • Fully online

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