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Master’s in GIS Rankings Methodology
To be considered for our rankings, schools had to offer a relevant & industry-centered online master’s program in GIS. Schools that offered more than one online GIS graduate program were given an additional boost. We were willing to consider online degrees in majors like geoscience or data science as long as they offered in-depth concentrations in GIS.
Each school that you see also appears in U.S. News & World Report in at least one GIS-related category (e.g. environment/ecology, geography, earth science, or geoscience). A number of schools in our top 10 appear in all four categories.
In addition, our list of the best online master’s degrees in GIS is designed to showcase schools & programs that achieve solid career results. That’s why our rankings algorithm also factors in median earnings at the 1-year, 4-year, and 5-year mark after graduation.
How Rankings Changed in 2026
UCLA continues to offer the best online master’s in GIS in the USA—its unique MAGIST degree has a strong data science flavor. Penn State’s online MGIS shot up in the rankings, rising from the #8 spot in 2025 to the #2 spot in 2026. It’s followed by a host of practical GIS & GIST offerings from flagship campuses like the University of Maryland, College Park and the University of Arizona.
We’re welcoming seven newcomers to our list this year! The University of Florida’s online MFRC is particularly unusual, combining core coursework in forestry & conservation with a geomatics concentration that makes up half of the degree. It ranks at #7—the only one of the newcomers to break the top 10.
Overall, prices for online master’s degrees in GIS have gone up. Almost all of the programs that appeared in last year’s rankings have increased their tuition rates. The two exceptions are Texas A&M (#6) and the University of Cincinnati (#20). UC’s online MS in GIS is also one of the most affordable options in our best rankings, with a total price tag under $23k.
Top 20 Online Master’s Programs in GIS
1 University of California Los Angeles
Overview | Online Master of Applied Geospatial Information Systems and Technologies (MAGIST)
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: Applied Spatial Data Science; Geospatial Databases & Data Management; Geospatial Imagery Analysis: Programming for Spatial Data Science; Applied Spatial Statistics; Spatial Data Science Futures + Capstone
- Credits: 36
- Estimated Total Cost: $38,430
- Accreditation: WASC
Program Summary
Take your GIS & data science skills to the next level with UCLA’s Online Master of Applied Geospatial Information Systems and Technologies (MAGIST). This high-octane, 36-unit program consists of seven courses in advanced geospatial tools & techniques and a two-course capstone project. You’ll gain experience in practical skills (e.g. developing data geospatial processing scripts & applications with Python) and complex data science techniques. During your capstone, you’ll be expected to tackle a real-world geospatial challenge in business, government, society, or policy.
We give Geospatial @ UCLA and the highly ranked UCLA Department of Geography a lot of kudos for developing a degree that’s designed for working professionals. You can finish it within 1 year on a full-time basis or up to 3 years on a part-time basis. Coursework is asynchronous and classroom projects are cloud-based. Better yet, you’ll have the opportunity to attend professional development workshops with geospatial experts and be considered for MAGIST scholarship & grant opportunities. MAGIST applicants are expected to have a background in GIS or related fields. (Career changers should apply for the entry-level Online GIS and Geospatial Technology Certificate.)
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2 Pennsylvania State University
Overview | Online Master of Geographic Information Systems (MGIS)
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: Geospatial System Analysis & Design; Geographic Information Analysis; Geospatial Technology Project Management + Range of Electives & Certificates + Capstone
- Credits: 33 or 36
- Estimated Total Cost: $34,221 or $37,332
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Program Summary
Craving control? Put Penn State’s customizable Online Master of Geographic Information Systems (MGIS) on your shortlist. It contains only three required courses in GISystem design, spatial data & statistics, and geospatial project management. The rest of the 33-36 credit program is up to you. You can choose to earn an online certificate in GIS, Geospatial Programming & Web Map Development, Remote Sensing, Geospatial Intelligence, or Geodesign or you can mix & match advanced GIS electives. The program finishes with a 3-credit capstone paper or 6-credit capstone project—view examples of recent student work.
Penn State has a lot to recommend it. Online graduate programs in GIS are backed by the Department of Geography and an external Advisory Board of geospatial experts. The university participates in the Esri Innovation Program (EIP) and it attracts a diverse range of MGIS students from all kinds of fields. On a part-time schedule, you can finish the online program in 2-3 years. Data & analytics lovers should also check out the Online MS in Spatial Data Science and departmental faculty research work in geospatial big data analytics.
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3 University of Maryland, College Park
Overview | Online MS in Geospatial Information Sciences (GIS) | Online MS in Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT)
- Availability: 100% Online or Hybrid
- Program Focus (GIS): Programming & Scripting for GIS; Spatial Statistics & Analysis; Digital Image Processing & Analysis; Web Programming & Web GIS; Spatial Modeling; Advanced Remote Sensing; Mobile GIS; Drones; Geospatial Intelligence; Open Source GIS + Capstone
- Program Focus (GEOINT): Geospatial Intelligence Systems & Platforms; GIS & Remote Sensing; GEOINT Systems & Platforms; Algorithms for GEOINT; Open Source Intelligence; Programming & Scripting for GIS; Remote Sensing; Drones; Web GIS; Mobile GIS & Geocomputing + Capstone
- Credits: 30 (GIS); 30 (GEOINT)
- Estimated Total Cost: $28,170 (GIS); $28,170 (GEOINT)
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Program Summary
Fascinated by geospatial technologies? Looking for a degree from a top-tier university in the DC area? UMCP’s advanced graduate programs come to you courtesy of the Center for Geospatial Information Science (CGIS), within the Department of Geographical Sciences. Have a look at the Center’s list of collaborators and research projects, then examine the curriculum links carefully before you make a decision:
- The comprehensive Online MS in GIS can help students become GIS programmers, app developers, and geospatial technology experts. Note the coursework in programming, spatial analysis & statistics, and advanced remote sensing. You also have the option to earn a graduate certificate in GIS or Remote Sensing to see whether you want to continue with the MS.
- The USGIF-accredited Online MS in GEOINT is laser-focused on geospatial intelligence as it relates to national security. Graduates often end up working in imagery intelligence, AI, and similar fields for the U.S. government and military agencies. You can get a taste for the curriculum by pursuing a graduate certificate in Geospatial Intelligence.
Both 30-credit degrees are Esri Innovation Programs (EIPs), which means ArcGIS software is provided to all students. You’ll also have free access to other relevant software through UMCP’s VMWare server. Just be aware that online students participate through simultaneous broadcasts & Zoom meetings (lectures are video-archived for reviewing).
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4 University of Arizona
Overview | Online MS in Geographic Information Systems Technology (GIST)
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: GIS; Remote Sensing; Raster Spatial Analysis; Vector Spatial Analysis; GIS Programming & Automation; WebGIS; Cartography; Open Source GIS + Capstone Project
- Credits: 30
- Estimated Total Cost: $26,383
- Accreditation: HLC
Program Summary
Stock your toolbox with all the latest skills & technologies in GIS. U of A’s Online MS in Geographic Information Systems Technology (GIST) includes project-based training in web, mobile, and open source applications (e.g. QGIS). You’ll be schooled in everything from programming with Python to working with LiDAR, ArcGIS software, and geodata analytics. This affordable 30-credit program is designed to meet UCGIS standards for the GIST Body of Knowledge—have a look at recent master’s projects—and it takes 18 months to complete.
U of A’s School of Geography, Development & Environment has a sturdy reputation in the academic world, especially in the field of earth science. It oversees research projects in remote sensing and the Southwest climate and it works hard to connect MS-GIST students with professional development opportunities (e.g. Esri User Conference). You may also be interested to know what the university’s UA GIS Users Group (UAGISUG) has been up to. This MS program welcomes students from a range of backgrounds and no GRE is required in order to apply.
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5 University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Overview | Online MS in CyberGIS and Geospatial Data Science
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: GIS; CyberGIS & Geospatial Data Science; Remote Sensing; Geospatial Visualization & Visual Analytics; High-Performance Geospatial Computing; Geospatial AI & Machine Learning + Capstone
- Credits: 32
- Estimated Total Cost: $24,896
- Accreditation: HLC, USGIF
Program Summary
Launch your career in the emerging field of CyberGIS. UIUC’s Online MS in CyberGIS and Geospatial Data Science is an unusual combination of advanced coursework in GIS and data science. You’ll be able to explore CyberGISX, experiment with a range of geospatial AI and Machine Learning (ML) algorithms, and use Python on high-performance & parallel computing architecture. Finish your education off by solving an advanced geospatial problem or developing a GIS-based application in your capstone project.
This challenging program is not for neophytes—the Department of Geography & Geographic Information Science (GGIS) is looking for candidates with a BS in a relevant field (GIS, Geography, Computer Science, etc.). But you’ll be among good company. The Department runs its own CyberGIS Center for Advanced Digital & Spatial Studies and faculty are working on fascinating research projects. The online MS can be pursued on a part-time basis and finished within 2-3 years. If you’d like to dip your toe in the water, you could consider earning the graduate certificate first. Both the certificate and master’s degree recently earned accreditation from USGIF, a distinction held by only a few schools in the nation.
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6 Texas A&M University-College Station
Overview | Online Master of Geoscience – Geographic Information Science & Technology (GIST)
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: Remote Sensing; GIS Applications; Spatial Analysis & Modeling; Python for Geosciences or Processing Geoscience Data; GIS Programming; GeoDatabases; Web GIS + Concentration/Emphasis + Capstone
- Credits: 36
- Estimated Total Cost: $32,748 (TX Residents); $45,117 (Out-of-State)
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Program Summary
Build your skills in technical GIS work before you land on a specialty with Texas A&M’s Online Master of Geoscience – Geographic Information Science & Technology (GIST). This 36-credit, non-thesis program has a sturdy core of GIScience basics (e.g. remote sensing) and GIS techniques (e.g. GIS programming). But you’ll also be allowed to choose three courses in a concentration area such as Data Analysis or Data Governance. Since Texas is the land of petroleum, Texas A&M offers additional concentrations in Energy and Geoscience. The last semester is devoted to a capstone project.
Texas A&M’s 18-month offering is an interdisciplinary degree—you’ll notice that the coursework draws on the expertise of multiple departments, including Geography, Oceanography, and Geology & Geophysics. It’s an ideal fit for anyone involved in oil & gas industries, but it may also intrigue folks who are interested in coastal planning. Ask the program coordinator if you can create any opportunities to work with the university’s Center for Geospatial Science, Applications and Technology (GEOSAT Center)—it’s doing a lot of work with digital twins and urban planning.
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7 University of Florida
Overview | Online Master of Forest Resources and Conservation (FRC) – Geomatics
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: Agroforestry; Resource Management; Forest Economics; Urban Forestry; Environmental Education + Geomatics Electives (incl. Thesis or Research Project)
- Credits: 30
- Estimated Total Cost: $16,950 (Minimum)
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Program Summary
Develop your resource management skill set with a degree that highlights both conservation and geospatial technology. In addition to FRC courses in areas such as urban forestry and watershed management, UF’s 30-credit Online Master of Forest Resources and Conversation (FRC) offers a Geomatics concentration that makes up 50% of the total degree. See the courses with the prefix SUR or GIS to learn what’s available. If you’re interested in the overlapping applications of forestry & GIS and love an affordable price tag, this is the online program for you!
As a graduate student, you’ll have access to the School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences and faculty to a particular interest in forest resources & conservation. Geospatial technologies covered in the concentration are also vast, from remote sensing and GIS programming to multiple dedicated courses in UAS. You could even opt for a co-op work experience, an honors thesis in geomatics, a senior project, or supervised research. To accommodate working professionals, online courses at UF are primarily asynchronous and delivered through Canvas.
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8 Ohio State University
Overview | Online MS in Geographic Information Science & Technology (GIST)
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: GIST Professionalism & Ethics; Cartography & Map Design; GIS; Remote Sensing + Intermediate GIS Electives + Advanced GIS Electives + Capstone
- Credits: 33
- Estimated Total Cost: $32,618 (Part-Time; OH Residents); $33,818 (Part-Time; Out-of-State)
- Accreditation: HLC
Program Summary
Create your own plan of study with OSU’s 33-credit Online MS in Geographic Information Science & Technology (GIST)! After you’ve completed foundation courses in GIS and remote sensing, you’ll have the freedom to choose from three intermediate electives and three advanced electives and a topic of special interest for your capstone project—see the curriculum section for a full list. You might wish to focus on algorithms, programming, and web GIS development. Or you could explore areas like geovisualization and spatial simulation & modeling. Better yet, all courses are asynchronous, which means you can study on your own time.
OSU is a quiet overachiever. It’s an NGA Center for Academic Excellence (CAE) in Geospatial Sciences and leader of the multi-institution Geomatics Emerging Scientist Consortium for Education, Research, and Capabilities Enhancement (GEO-ESCON). Anyone interested in practical applications of GIS should also take a look at the Department of Geography’s Center for Urban and Regional Analysis (CURA)—think transportation, housing, and economic disparities—and the spatial work being done with the College of Food, Agricultural, Environmental Sciences (CFAES)’s Ag Sensing Lab—think precision agriculture, sustainable land management, and crop yields.
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9 Oregon State University
Overview | Online MS in Geography and Geospatial Science
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: Introduction to GIS; Geography; Geospatial Science; Remote Sensing; Geospatial Perspectives on Intelligence, Security & Ethics + Electives in Geospatial Modeling & Analysis or Earth System Science or Global Change Risk & Resilience + Capstone
- Credits: 45
- Estimated Total Cost: $26,190
- Accreditation: NWCCU
Program Summary
Combine your tech studies with field & lab work in Oregon State’s 45-credit Online MS in Geography and Geospatial Science. This interdisciplinary, non-thesis program contains a mandatory core of geography, GIS, remote sensing, and geospatial science. But you can add flavor to the mix by choosing electives in geospatial modeling & analysis (e.g. advanced cartography, programming, advanced spacial statistics, etc.), earth system science (e.g. ecological restoration), and global change risk & resilience (e.g. environmental & resource economics).
It’s a broad-based graduate program for those who are interested in big picture thinking. As an Oregon State student, you’ll have access to the College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences and its work on the environmental & cultural dimension of landscapes. Check out the faculty research threads on geospatial technologies for examples. Oregon has a strong environmental track record, especially in oceanography, so ask the program coordinator if you can look at MS capstone projects to see how students applied their learning to real-world scenarios. Not sure if it’s the right fit? Try the 19-credit Online Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science.
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Oregon State’s Online MS in Geography and Geospatial Science
10 University of Oklahoma
Overview | Online MS in Geography and Environmental Sustainability – Geospatial Technologies
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: Spatial Statistics; Geography & Environmental Sustainability; Research + GIS Electives (Remote Sensing; GIS Applications; Advanced GIS & Spatial Analysis; Digital Image Processing & More) + General Electives
- Credits: 33
- Estimated Total Cost: $33,495
- Accreditation: HLC
Program Summary
Build on your environmental expertise with OU’s Online MS in Geography and Environmental Sustainability – Geospatial Technologies. This 33-credit program addresses both the theory & application of GIST. You’ll be expected to complete three core courses in research & professional development, spatial statistics, and geography & environmental sustainability. After that, you can choose two electives in GIS topics (e.g. GIS applications, spatial programming, etc.), one elective in GIS techniques (e.g. drones & remote sensing), two courses in geography, and a range of general electives.
Sustainability is the key word to keep in mind when considering OU’s 21-month, non-thesis program. The Department of Geography and Environmental Sustainability has strong ties to the Southern Climate Impacts Planning Program (SCIPP). It offers geography courses in topics like real-world applications of climate & weather information and energy systems & sustainability. And it runs an EcoGRAPH Research Group with interests in remote sensing & environmental monitoring data. Take a look at their recent projects.
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11 Johns Hopkins University
Overview | Online MS in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: GIS; Web GIS; Geospatial Statistics; Spatial Analysis; Programming in GIS + Electives/Focus Areas + Capstone
- Credits: 40
- Estimated Total Cost: $49,700
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Program Summary
JHU’s 40-credit Online MS in GIS is a judicious mixture of GIS fundamentals and industry-focused electives. 4 of the 10 courses are mandatory, but you’ll have the freedom to select 6 courses in your realm of interest. JHU offers specific focus areas in Geospatial Data Science and Predictive Analytics, GIS Programming and Application Development, and Geospatial Intelligence. You’ll finish up with a capstone project, which can be used to create a presentation for a GIS conference or a paper for a peer-reviewed GIS publication.
Intriguingly, many of the faculty for this 12-24 month program are adjunct professors. This could be a bonus in your eyes, since some of them have extensive experience in the private sector. Talk to recent alumni about how they have fared in the job market. Even though this master’s degree may be an Advanced Academic Program (AAP), the name Johns Hopkins has immediate street credibility with employers. And it will certainly help provide relative beginners with a full breadth of GIS topics.
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12 North Carolina State University
Overview | Online MS in Geospatial Information Science and Technology (GIST)
- Availability: 100% Online or Hybrid
- Program Focus: GIST Fundamentals; Spatial Data Foundations; Geospatial Programming; Geospatial Data Structures & Web Services; Geospatial Modeling + GIST Electives + Additional Electives (e.g. Engineering, Environmental Science, etc.) + Professional Portfolio + Capstone
- Credits: 33
- Estimated Total Cost: $19,672 (NC Residents), $58,718 (Out-of-State)
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Program Summary
From statistics to environmental science, there is something for everyone in NC State’s 33-credit Online MS in Geospatial Information Science and Technology (GIST). Housed in the College of Natural Resources, this program would a great fit for professionals who are seeking a hands-on graduate program with a lot of networking opportunities. After fundamental training in geospatial concepts, students can select 12 credits of advanced technical coursework in GIST (e.g. cartographic design, web and mobile GIS protocols, mapping and analysis using UAS) and electives from adjacent departments, including engineering, agriculture, and even business management.
NC State is very strong on emphasizing the importance of community throughout the student experience—this is an online master’s degree in GIST with in-person elements! The virtual portion of the program features a combination of live class broadcasts, asynchronous recordings, and collaborative forums. There are also two mandatory on-campus events: 1) an all-day orientation, where the students meet their classmates and faculty; and 2) a Digital Symposium, where students present and share capstone work completed in their final term. There’s no thesis, but MGIST graduates will graduate with a professional portfolio.
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13 University of Southern California
Overview | Online MS in Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIST) | Online MS in Human Security and Geospatial Intelligence (HSGI)
- Availability: Online with Fieldwork Excursion
- Program Focus (GIST): Tracks in Spatial Data Management or Spatial Computing or Spatial Analytics + Master’s Thesis
- Program Focus (HSGI): Human Security & Disaster Management; Geospatial Intelligence Tradecraft; Project Management; Remote Sensing + Electives + Capstone (HSGI)
- Credits: 28 (GIST); 34 (HSGI)
- Estimated Total Cost: $69,076 (GIST); $83,878 (HSGI)
- Accreditation: WASC
Program Summary
Different strokes for different folks! In the world of online GIS learning, USC has two “sibling” programs that have been designed by its Spatial Sciences Institute:
- The Online MS in Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIST) is all about the tools. You’ll select a curriculum track and follow it through to the end. Choose from: 1) Spatial Data Management (e.g. spatial databases, remote sensing for GIS, etc.); 2) Spatial Computing (e.g. spatial programming & customization, web & mobile GIS, etc.); or 3) Spatial Analytics (e.g. cartography & visualization, spatial econometrics, etc.). All tracks finish with a master’s thesis.
- The USGIF-accredited Online MS in Human Security and Geospatial Intelligence (HSGI) is more narrowly focused on risk mitigation, disaster management, and threat response. In addition to credits on spatial data acquisition and remote sensing, it includes courses in geospatial intelligence tradecraft, geospatial technology project management, and security. This MS ends with a capstone project in applied geospatial intelligence problem-solving.
Tuition is not cheap, but USC is one of the best in the country for GIS students. The Spatial Sciences Institute is part of the Esri Innovation Program (EIP) and it’s a Sustaining Partner of the U.S. Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF). It even runs its own Human Security and Geospatial Intelligence Lab. Although coursework is asynchronous, with optional live sessions, all online MS students are expected to take part in a week-long fieldwork excursion to the Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies on Catalina Island. Either MS program can be polished off in 20 months.
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14 Colorado School of Mines
Overview | Online MS in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Geoinformatics
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: GIS Applications + GIS Electives (Remote Sensing, Geoengineering & Geosciences, Data Science, Geospatial Big Data Analytics, Python Scripting for ArcGIS Pro & More) + GIS-Based Real World Learning Project
- Credits: 30
- Estimated Total Cost: $35,910 (Part-Time Rate)
- Accreditation: HLC
Program Summary
Did you earn an undergraduate degree in earth science? Congratulations—you’ve just found the perfect master’s program! As you can tell by the curriculum, Mines’s 30-credit Online MS in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Geoinformatics is devoted to ideas around earth, energy, and the environment. Once you’ve taken a fundamental course in GIS applications, you’ll be able to choose any relevant electives that suit your career. We love the inclusion of a GIS-based, real-world learning project, which takes the place of a traditional thesis.
This is an intimate program, so don’t forget to look up the faculty profiles and the section on research work before applying. As you might expect from an engineering & applied science university, Mines is doing fascinating work in all of the areas covered by the degree (earth, energy & environment). Not quite ready for a master’s? Credits from the 12-credit Online Graduate Certificate in GIS & GeoInformatics with a specialization in GIST can be transferred into the program at a later date. One note—we’re quoting the part-time tuition rate. Full-time study will be cheaper.
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15 Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Overview | Online MS in Geography with Graduate Certificate in GIS and/or Crime Mapping and Geospatial Intelligence Analytics
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: GIS & Advanced GIS; Environmental Remote Sensing & Advanced Remote Sensing; Methods of Spatial Analysis; Socioeconomic Applications of GIS; Criminology + Thesis
- Credits: 31
- Estimated Total Cost: $22,475
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Program Summary
Interested in research-driven roles in GIS or the potential of a PhD? Unlike many online masters’ programs, LSU’s 31-credit Online MS in Geography requires students to complete a thesis. Students must complete 4 credits in graduate study & research methods, 21 credits of electives, and 6 credits in thesis research. Faculty will guide students through advanced independent study on a geospatial subject of their choosing, from remote sensing analysis to GEOINT prediction modeling, preparing them to conduct and synthesize deep research on a specialized topic.
For the electives, you’ll select at least one of these two certificates: 1) GIS, where the coursework covers technical skill-building in GIS and remote sensing; and/or 2) Crime Mapping & Geospatial Intelligence Analytics, where the coursework expands to include criminology and socioeconomic applications of GIS. Before applying, LSU suggests that candidates should reach out to faculty members in the Department of Geography and Anthropology who might be good collaborators for the thesis. We also recommend investigating the Department’s research labs, including the Technology Intensive Geospatial and Remote Sensing (TIGeRS) lab!
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16 University of Wyoming
Overview | Professional MS in Geospatial Information Science and Technology
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: Basics of Spatial Data Science; Applied Geospatial Analytics; Geographic Visualization; Spatial Modeling & Data Analysis; Web Mapping & Internet GIS + GIST Electives + Geospatial Forum + Capstone
- Credits: 30
- Estimated Total Cost: $12,135 (WY Residents); $18,375 (Out-of-State)
- Accreditation: HLC
Program Summary
UW offers a non-thesis master’s program for students who are as equally interested in specialty GIS technologies (including drones!) as they are in building a robust professional network. Core courses make up 21 credits of the 30-credit Professional MS in Geospatial Information Science & Technology (GIST), wherein students will learn the basics of spatial data science, geographic visualization (map-making), web mapping, and spatial modeling. For the remaining 9 credits of electives, students can choose from 5000-level courses to enhance specialty knowledge in various sub-disciplines of GIS. In addition to advanced coursework in remote sensing and enterprise GIS, there are four different courses specifically focused on unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
UW is home to the Wyoming Geographic Information Science Center (WyGISC), which aims to educate and enhance the industry through data collection, application development, and spatial modeling projects. Pursuing the Professional MS in GIST can provide you with access to the institute’s interdisciplinary activities, project funds, and state & regional connections. You’ll have even more opportunities to network during the virtual Geospatial Forum. MS in GIST students are required to attend the forum twice: once as an attendee, and again as a presenter, as they complete and demo their capstone project. This experience closely mimics presenting scientific research at a professional conference.
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17 George Mason University
Overview | Online MS in Geoinformatics and Geospatial Intelligence
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: GIS; Remote Sensing; Spatial Data Structures; Scientific Data Mining for Geoinformatics; Geospatial Intelligence + Electives + Capstone + Thesis or Research Project/Exam
- Credits: 30
- Estimated Total Cost: $22,575 (VA Residents); $51,405 (Out-of-State)
- Accreditation: HLC
Program Summary
For maximum flexibility, Mason’s 30-credit Online MS in Geoinformatics and Geospatial Intelligence is available in a thesis or a non-thesis route. This USGIF-accredited program features 18 credits of core coursework in GIS and geospatial intelligence (including a capstone); 9 credits of electives; and 3 credits for a master’s thesis or research project & comprehensive exam. To ensure that students learn about a diverse set of geospatial technologies and applications, electives must be from two or more of the following subcategories: Image Analysis; GIS; and Computational Geoinformatics. See the catalog for a full list of course options.
If GEOINT work in the defense & intelligence space is appealing to you, this program is ideal! Thanks to its strategic location near Washington, DC, Mason is well-known for its government work. The Department of Geography and Geoinformation Science can supply you with career connections to federal agencies and opportunities to work on high-impact research projects. You can also get involved in the Center for Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT). The Department’s section on geointelligence features a list of potential faculty advisors. Virtual learners have access to powerful cloud computing services and GPU clusters to conduct big data analytics and deep learning.
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Mason’s Online MS in Geoinformatics and Geospatial Intelligence
18 University of Missouri-Columbia
Overview | Online MS in Data Science and Analytics – Geospatial Analytics
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: Data Science & Analytics; Statistical & Mathematical Foundations; Database & Analytics; Big Data Visualization; Data Analytics from Applied Machine Learning + Geospatial Analytics Emphasis (Geospatial Data Engineering; Spatial & Geostatistical Analysis; Geospatial AI & Image Analysis) + Case Study + Capstone
- Credits: 30
- Estimated Total Cost: $32,514
- Accreditation: HLC
Program Summary
Mizzou’s 30-credit Online MS in Data Science and Analytics – Geospatial Analytics is an interdisciplinary degree that marries 16 credits of intensive coursework in analytics, data science & machine learning with 9 credits in geospatial applications, including work in geospatial AI. Before graduating, students will also be required to complete a team-based case study and a capstone project, both of which are focused on big data; these advanced courses will prepare students for real-world applications of the spatial data analytics skills they’ve learned thus far.
The program lives within the MU Institute for Data Science and Informatics (MUIDSI), which has 60 core faculty members—use MUIDSI’s search tool to read about faculty with a special interest in geospatial analytics research. Although MS students can complete Mizzou’s program in a 100% online format, they are given the option to visit the campus for one week during the spring semester to attend Data Science Executive Week. This is a unique opportunity to not only engage in hands-on data science learning, but to network with peers and faculty, making vital connections for future research and career building.
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Mizzou’s Online MS in Data Science and Analytics – Geospatial Analytics
19 University of Denver
Overview | Online MS in Geographic Information Science (GISc)
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: Geographic Information Analysis; GIS Project Management; Advanced Geographic Statistics; GIS Database Design; Remote Sensing; Research Methods + GIS Electives + Capstone
- Credits: 48
- Estimated Total Cost: $41,232
- Accreditation: HLC
Program Summary
Looking to customize your GIS degree? The University of Denver offers a robust 48-credit Online MS in Geographic Information Science (GISc) that features 7 core courses (28 credits) and a vast array of electives (21 credits). Elective credits can be obtained through courses offered in the GIS certificate program, which dives deep into geospatial technologies and applications. Some of these electives include: Geospatial Statistics; Crime Mapping; Python Programming in GIS; Conservation GIS; Hydrologic Modeling in GIS; UAS for GIS; and even industry-specific applications like GIS in Public Health. Courses in DU’s program are each worth four credit hours.
Before you submit your application, read the GIS faculty profiles and visit DU’s Department of Geography & the Environment. You may wish to choose electives that intersect with some of your professors’ pet research interests. There’s no thesis in this program, but there is a real-world capstone project. Your advisor will help identify a client for this project and define its scope and objective. In addition, the advisor and the client will serve on the presentation committee to evaluate the project’s success. If you’re on the fence, consider earning the 24-credit Online Certificate of Advanced Study in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) first. Credits can be transferred to the MS later on.
20 University of Cincinnati
Overview | Online MS in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Availability: 100% Online
- Program Focus: GIS; Applied Computer Cartography; Quantitative Geography & Spatial Statistics; Geography; Remote Sensing + Geography & GIS Electives + Capstone
- Credits: 30
- Estimated Total Cost: $22,380 (OH Residents); $22,830 (Out-of-State)
- Accreditation: HLC
Program Summary
Earn a master’s degree without losing your shirt—UC’s Online MS in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is both affordable and well-structured. You’ll begin this stats-heavy program with an introduction to GIS and then get stuck into core courses on spatial statistics & analysis, remote sensing, geographic research, and computer analytical cartography using ArcGIS software. After you’ve completed the core, you can select three electives. Sample course titles including GIS in Hydrology, Practical Data Mining & Visualization, and Fundamentals of GIS Programming. The degree culminates in capstone.
If you decide to take 2 courses per semester, you can polish off this 30-credit online MS in GIS in 18 months. Pay attention to the unique elective offerings—the Department of Geography has specific geospatial research interests in crime mapping & analysis and public health. It also runs its own Center for Geospatial Information & Environmental Sensor Networks (GIESN) and Joint Center for GIS and Spatial Analysis (GISSA). You may find opportunities at GISSA to get involved (remotely) with urban analysis & regional planning projects in the Cincinnati region—don’t be afraid to ask!
Explore the Degree
How to Choose an Online Master’s in GIS
If you’re on this site, we believe that you’re taking your education very seriously!
- You’ve chatted to your employer and colleagues about the best ways to progress in GIS.
- You’ve weighed the pros & cons of professional certification vs. graduate degree.
- You’ve decided that related majors (e.g. software development, engineering, data science, etc.) are not relevant.
- You’ve examined recent job postings in GIS to learn what skills companies are hungry for.
- And you’re ready to commit to 1-3 years of virtual learning.
The next step is choosing an online master’s degree in our rankings that aligns with your career goals. That’s why we’ve spent some time outlining the pros & cons of each program. Before you commit, take a minute to run through your own personal checklist of a) quality markers; and b) practical considerations.
Quality Markers: What to Look for in an Online Master’s in GIS
In our rankings, you’ll notice that Departments of Geography like to play to their strengths. Texas A&M offers coursework in oil & gas industries; the University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins are interested in government & security; and the University of Arizona has a stake in Southwest climate research. Some online master’s programs in GIS have a corporate/industry feel. Others go heavy on research & statistics. You’re at liberty to decide which one works best for you!
Once you’ve found a few titles & programs that pique your interest, ask yourself if they have the following elements:
- Practical Coursework: Is the GIS or GIST coursework applicable to your current job? Does the program include hands-on training in GIS tools & applications? Does it teach you advanced progamming? Is the curriculum regularly updated to reflect technology changes?
- Real-World Projects: What kinds of capstone projects have recent GIS and GIST graduates produced? Which industry partners did they collaborate with? Can you build GIS projects within your electives? Is there an opportunity for you to create a portfolio of classroom work?
- Expert Faculty: Do your professors have a strong track record in corporate work & cutting-edge GIS research? Do they teach in-person courses as well? Is the online program backed by an advisory board of GIS experts? Can you collaborate with faculty members who are exploring applications & technologies in your domain (e.g. planning, environment, government, etc.)?
- Dedicated Career Support: Does the degree provide virtual opportunities for networking and professional development? Will you be able to present at conferences or submit papers to GIS publications? Can the program help prepare you for professional certifications (e.g. GISP)? Can remote internships be arranged?
Our best advice? Search LinkedIn and chat to alumni to get a sense of where people end up after they graduate. Your strongest educational allies are going to be your peers.
Practicals: Does the Online Master’s in GIS Work for You?
Practical considerations are also going to play a part in your decision. Online learning is convenient, flexible, and cost-effective. But it’s not a walk in the park. Consider the following factors when you’re evaluating online MS in GIS programs:
- Admissions: Use the links in our rankings to see if you have the right experience to apply for the program. There’s nothing more frustrating than being in an online master’s degree in GIS that’s either too easy or too advanced for your skill level.
- Course Delivery: If you’re working long hours or taking care of family, you may prefer an online degree that has asynchronous (“on your own time”) coursework, prerecorded lectures, and self-directed studies. If you like the human element, you may want an online program with synchronous (“real-time”) lectures, team-based projects, and interactive forums.
- Technology Requirements: Some online graduate programs may expect you to purchase popular GIS software. Others will host all of their project-based coursework in the Cloud. Almost every online degree will require a strong Internet connection.
- Tuition & Fees: Many employers will help defray the costs of an online MS in GIS if they feel you’ll add value to the company. You can study part-time on the weekends and evenings and apply your coursework to your job as you learn. If you can’t get employer support, ask about online scholarships—some schools in our rankings offer them.
Feel free to ask the program coordinator if you can “sit in” on a class or try one course before you enroll. You could also consider earning an online graduate certificate in GIS as a starter step toward a degree—just make sure all of your credits will be transferable.
All Online Master's in GIS Programs
44 Schools Found
Arizona
Arizona State University
School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning
Tempe, Arizona
Northern Arizona University
Department of Geography, Planning, and Recreation
Flagstaff, Arizona
University of Arizona
School of Geography, Development, and Environment
Tucson, Arizona
Accelerated Master's Program in GIST
Offered Online
Arkansas
University of Central Arkansas
Department of Geography
Conway, Arkansas
Master of Geographic Information Systems
Offered Online
California
University of Redlands
Department of Geographic Information Science
Redlands, California
Master of Geographic Information Systems
Offered Online
University of Southern California
Spatial Sciences Institute
Los Angeles, California
Colorado
Colorado School of Mines
Geology and Geological Engineering Department
Golden, Colorado
MS in GIS and GeoInformatics
Offered Online
University of Denver
Department of Geography and the Environment
Denver, Colorado
Florida
The University of West Florida
Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences
Pensacola, Florida
University of Central Florida
School of Public Administration
Orlando, Florida
MS in Urban and Regional Planning
Offered Online
University of Florida
Geomatics at Fort Lauderdale
Gainesville, Florida
Illinois
Eastern Illinois University
Department of Geology/Geography
Charleston, Illinois
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Department of Geography & Geographic Information Science
Champaign, Illinois
Indiana
Purdue University
Polytechnic Institute
West Lafayette, Indiana
Iowa
Iowa State University
Department of Community and Regional Planning
Ames, Iowa
Master of Community Development
Offered Online
Kansas
Kansas State University
K-State Online
Manhattan, Kansas
Master of Community Development
Offered Online
Kentucky
University of Kentucky
College of Arts and Sciences
Lexington, Kentucky
MS in Digital Mapping
Offered Online
Maine
Unity Environmental University
Distance Education
New Gloucester, Maine
Maryland
Johns Hopkins University
Zanvyl Krieger School of Arts and Sciences
Baltimore, Maryland
Salisbury University
Department of Geography and Geosciences
Salisbury, Maryland
University of Maryland-College Park
Department of Geographical Sciences
College Park, Maryland
Michigan
Calvin University
Department of Geology, Geography, and Environment
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Eastern Michigan University
Department of Geography and Geology
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Michigan Technological University
Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering
Houghton, Michigan
Missouri
Northwest Missouri State University
Department of Humanities and Social Science
Maryville, Missouri
New York
SUNY at Albany
Department of Geography And Planning
Albany, New York
North Carolina
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
College of Natural Resources
Raleigh, North Carolina
North Dakota
University of North Dakota
Department of Geography & Geographic Information Science
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Ohio
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Department of Geography
Columbus, Ohio
University of Cincinnati
Department of Geography
Cincinnati, Ohio
Oklahoma
Northeastern State University
Graduate College
Tahlequah, Oklahoma
University of Oklahoma Norman Campus
Department of Geography and Environmental Sustainability
Norman, Oklahoma
Oregon
Oregon State University
Department of Geography and Geospatial Science
Corvallis, Oregon
Pennsylvania
Millersville University of Pennsylvania
Department of Earth Sciences
Millersville, Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
Department of Geography
University Park, Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
Department in Geospatial
University Park, Pennsylvania
Master of Geographic Information Systems
Offered Online
South Dakota
South Dakota State University
Department of Geography and Geospatial Sciences
Brookings, South Dakota
Texas
Texas A & M University-College Station
Department of Geography
College Station, Texas
Virginia
George Mason University
Geography and Geoinformation Science Department
Fairfax, Virginia
Liberty University
LJ Online
Lynchburg, Virginia
West Virginia
Marshall University
Department of Geography
Huntington, West Virginia
West Virginia University
Department of Geology and Geography
Morgantown, West Virginia
Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Geography Department
Madison, Wisconsin
Wyoming
University of Wyoming
Department of Geospatial Information Science & Technology
Laramie, Wyoming