Applied Geographic Information Systems, M.S.

OSRHE Program Code: 199
CIP Code: 450702
Major Code: 9320
Option Codes:

• 9321 - Sustainability
• 9322 - Professional Enhancement

Purpose

The M.S. in Applied Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a 2-year, 30-credit hour program designed to prepare graduates for geospatial technology leadership roles in government, business, sustainability, non-profit agencies, and other settings.  This program is unique in that it combines technical expertise in GIS with applications in outside concentrations including sustainability, public relations, leadership, American studies, natural sciences, business administration, and criminal justice that aid in preparing future leaders and program managers.

The practical approach of the M.S. in Applied GIS provides graduates with opportunities to further develop their problem solving, critical thinking, project management, and communication skills in order to investigate and provide solutions for today’s most pressing local and regional issues.  Currently there is strong demand for GIS professionals with graduate degrees as many industries and organizations will continue to expand their use of GIS technology.  Emerging markets such as self-driving cars, smart home technology and the widespread availability of drone technology will contribute to the continued growth of GIS.  Jobs in geographic systems and technology have competitive salaries, especially for those with post graduate education who take technical and project management positions.  The M.S. in Applied GIS equips graduates with the geospatial technology tools, skills, and experience to be career-ready leaders in the field of applied GIS.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Design and manage spatial databases
2. Implement project management techniques
3. Apply scripting techniques to automate geospatial processes
4. Assess the suitability of diverse information sources for GIS applications
5. Apply geospatial knowledge, techniques, theories, and methods to solve emerging problems in concentration areas
6. Effectively communicate geographic ideas, concepts, and results via written, oral, and cartographic methods

Admission, Retention, and Graduation

Admission. Beyond the admission requirements for the Graduate College, admission to the Applied Geographic Information Systems, M.S. program requires:

1. Completion of two foundational prerequisite courses GEOG 3813 Geographic Information Systems (or an equivalent introductory course in GIS) and MATH 1313 Elementary Statistics (or an equivalent or higher course in statistics). Students may be accepted conditionally to the program if they do not meet one or both prerequisites, and they will be required to take the course or courses to satisfy the program prerequisite during their first year of study.

Advisement. The Graduate College assigns students an advisor upon admission to graduate studies. It is the candidate’s responsibility to make an appointment with the advisor prior to enrollment to discuss policies and procedures relevant to the degree program. Conferring with the student, the advisor develops the plan of study, reviews the Statement of Understanding, assists in the selection of classes, and counsels the student.

Retention and Graduation. Candidates for the Master of Science in Applied Geographic Information Systems degree must satisfy the following requirements:

1. Continue to meet the Graduate College’s retention standards. See the Academic Information page for more information.
2. Monitor degree progress using the degree audit system in the goNSU portal.
3. Meet Graduate College policies detailed in Academic Information and Master’s Degree Requirements regarding GPA, minimum grades, coursework age, residency and institutional / state regulations governing degree conferral.
4. Complete the GIS Practicum/Capstone or six hours of Thesis.