10 Best Online Master’s Degrees in GIS

Located in Oklahoma, Northeastern State University offers a range of degree programs to suit your interests and career goals. NSU provides ample opportunities for personal and professional growth. With a supportive community, dedicated faculty, and a focus on hands-on learning, NSU is the perfect place to embark on your academic journey.

The Master of Science in Applied Geographic Information Systems at Northeastern State is a 30-credit hour program with two concentration areas to choose from. Students can focus their studies on either sustainability or professional enhancement.

Students choosing the sustainability option will complete core GIS courses and 15 credit hours in areas like:

• Advanced Natural Hazards
• Sustainability Theory and Practices
• Climate Variability and Change

Those selecting the professional enhancement option will take graduate coursework related to their professional goals in addition to core GIS courses.

All students complete either a thesis or a practicum and capstone project. Most students can complete their degree in two years. Graduates are successful in a variety of roles including GIS Analyst and Urban Planner.

Sam Houston State University is located in Huntsville, Texas. SHSU offers a vibrant and inclusive academic environment for students seeking quality education and opportunities for personal growth. Known for its strong commitment to student success, SHSU offers a supportive community, dedicated faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities to help students thrive both academically and personally. SHSU provides a welcoming and enriching environment to help you achieve your academic and professional goals.

The GIS online master’s at SHSU is taught by talented and credentialed professors. Students benefit from small class sizes and around-the-clock support.

The graduate program in Applied Geographic Information Systems (GIS) equips students with essential skills needed for success in the field of geospatial technologies. Through advanced coursework and hands-on labs, students gain expertise in areas like:

• GIS (ArcGIS)
• remote sensing (ERDAS IMAGINE)
• web-based mapping
• model builder
• programming
• spatial analysis

The GIS master’s program provides two tracks:

1. Traditional track featuring a blend of face-to-face and online classes
2. Professional track offered entirely online

The program explores various applications in industries like:

• oil and gas
• public health
• parcel mapping

New students are accepted for the fall and spring semesters. Most students can complete their degree in about two years.

Texas A&M University, located in College Station, Texas, is a renowned public research institution. With a diverse and inclusive campus community, Texas A&M offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. As one of the largest universities in the United States, Texas A&M provides state-of-the-art facilities and world-class faculty. The supportive environment helps students succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

The Master of Geoscience (MGsc.) is a fully online program offered by the Department of Geography at Texas A&M University. It provides comprehensive training in two specialized concentrations:

• Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIST)
• Petroleum Data Management (PDM)

The GIST Track is a 36-credit hour non-thesis program. Students complete 10 courses followed by a semester-long capstone experience. The customized curriculum includes four emphasis areas:

• Data Analysis
• Data Governance
• Energy
• Geoscience

The PDM concentration was designed in partnership with industry leaders. Students also complete 36 credit hours that include six credits of electives. Elective course offerings include:

• GeoDatabases
• GIS Programming
• Data Methods and Graphical Representation

For those with limited time for a full master’s degree, the program also offers two online graduate GIS certificates in geoscience. These certificates equip students with essential skills to enhance their careers in as little as one year.

The University of West Florida is a vibrant institution located in Pensacola, Florida. UWF provides students with a high-quality education and a supportive learning environment. With state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on innovation and research, UWF prepares students for success in a rapidly evolving world.

The Geographic Information Science Administration online MS teaches students how to hone their skills in geospatial science and business management. The program is affiliated with the National Professional Science Master’s Association. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, including a project-based capstone where you’ll collaborate with real clients on GIS solutions.

The interdisciplinary approach integrates business and GIS courses to develop leadership skills, ensuring students graduate with well-rounded GIS professional poised for success in any industry. The 36-credit hour program offers a robust curriculum, including 12 credit hours in business management and 24 credit hours in advanced geographic information science topics. Courses are led by experienced educators with extensive GIS expertise.

Most students can complete their degree in 36 months of study.

Delta State University is a small, public institution located in Cleveland, Mississippi. While they are the only school in the state to offer a degree in Commercial Aviation, they are also well known for their nationally recognized GIS program. Delta State University provides a dynamic learning environment where students can thrive academically, personally, and professionally. With a focus on student success and innovation, Delta State University prepares graduates to make meaningful contributions to their communities.

Delta State University’s Master of Applied Science in Geospatial Information Technologies (MAS-GIT) program stands out as a “Signature Program.” The program is tailored to students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds seeking advanced training in geospatial information technologies. Students can complete their degree entirely online, allowing them to advance their GIS careers while balancing existing work commitments. MAS-GIT equips learners with innovative approaches to tackle real-world challenges faced by government agencies, businesses, and non-profit organizations.

The program features:

• advanced coursework
• practicum experiences
• opportunities for independent research

Students are empowered to apply spatial analysis tools to address contemporary issues spanning environmental concerns, urban planning, and beyond. There are no out-of-state fees, making it affordable to all students. New students are admitted every semester.

The University of North Alabama is a state university offering both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. UNA is known for its picturesque campus situated in Florence, Alabama, which offers stunning views of the Tennessee River and provides a scenic backdrop for student life. With a rich history dating back to 1830, UNA has a long tradition of academic excellence. UNA is committed to providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in their future careers.

The Master of Science Degree in Geographic Information Science at the University of North Alabama is a 33-credit hour program. Students can complete their degree online or on-campus. Course offerings include:

• Geographic Methods in Design
• Seminar in Geospatial Science
• Advanced Quantitative Methods in Geography

Students can choose to complete a thesis or a culminating project. Applicants should have an undergraduate GPA of at least a 3.0 and must submit GRE scores. Prospective students should also provide three letters of recommendation and a personal statement.

Did you know that Purdue has a renowned flight program and was the alma mater of Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon? With its strong emphasis on engineering and technology, Purdue is known for its innovative research and contributions to various fields, making it a top choice for students seeking a dynamic and enriching educational experience.

Purdue University offers a fully online Master of Science in Graduate Studies in Applied Geospatial Analytics. The program combines the prestige of a top-tier graduate degree with the convenience of online learning. Students develop technical and problem-solving skills to conduct data-driven analyses and visualizations in geospatial contexts. With the flexibility of online coursework, students can graduate in as little as 20 months. The program caters to various career paths, including:

• civil and environmental engineering
• agriculture
• natural resource conservation
• building construction management
• public utilities

In addition to the master’s degree, graduates have the opportunity to earn three graduate-level certificates including:

• Applied Data Analytics
• Spatial Data Science
• Strategic Communication Management

These certificates allow students to stack credentials, boosting their marketability in the job market.

Throughout the program, students collaborate with classmates from diverse professional backgrounds. They learn from esteemed faculty and gain hands-on experience applying geospatial analysis techniques using GIS software.

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) is a public university founded in 1907. UCA boasts an impressive collection of public art, including sculptures and murals scattered throughout campus, making it a vibrant and creative space. Additionally, UCA hosts the annual “Toad Suck Daze” festival, a quirky event celebrating local culture and community spirit. With its blend of academic excellence and unique campus traditions, UCA offers students a well-rounded collegiate experience.

The online Master of Geographic Information Systems (MGIS) program is structured similarly to executive MBA programs offered online. Ideally, students should have at least one GIS course or be currently employed in a position that uses GIS information services. The 30-credit hour program allows students to choose from a thesis option or complete a graduate portfolio. Required courses include:

• Digital Image Processing for GIS
• Spatial Analysis and Modeling
• Mapping Fundamentals for GIS

Students can choose elective courses that align with their professional goals.

Calvin University is a Christian university located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The university has its own nature preserve, boasting trails, wetlands, and diverse wildlife right on campus. Whether attending on-campus or online, students have access to the same caliber of education including small class size and rigorous coursework. With its unique quirks and vibrant community, Calvin University offers students an enriching and memorable college experience.

Calvin University’s online Master of Science in Geographic Information Science (MS in GISC) program aligns with the industry-standard University Consortium for Geographic Information Science GIS&T Body of Knowledge. Students gain the essential skills for diverse career opportunities in geographic information science. The curriculum is led by experienced educators with extensive professional experience.

The MS in GISC is delivered entirely online. Students are encouraged to contemplate the broader impact of their learning on the world. To ensure a hands-on educational experience, the program incorporates a virtual lab component. Students gain practical experience with drones for remote sensing and gain proficiency in modern software applications.

Students can complete this 30-credit hour degree in just nine to 24 months. There is no GRE required for admission.

Kent State University is a leading public university located in Kent, Ohio. Did you know that Kent State is home to one of the oldest university-operated airports in the United States? The Kent State University Airport has been providing flight training and education since 1929. Additionally, the university’s fashion museum houses one of the largest collections of historical fashion in the country, featuring garments dating back to the 18th century. Kent State also features a vibrant online community with over 70 degree and certificate programs. With its rich history and unique attractions, Kent State University offers students a dynamic and engaging experience.

The College of Arts and Sciences at Kent State offers an online master’s in GISc. Features include:

• Designed for maximum flexibility.
• Accommodates learners from all backgrounds and life situations.
• Led by award-winning scientists, Kent State’s online MGISc program exemplifies engaged science.

Each course spans seven weeks, allowing students to focus on individual subjects. Students can take two courses sequentially each semester, completing their MGISc in just two years. Small class sizes fosters collaboration and personalized attention from professors. Kent State ensures that students receive the support needed to pursue their professional goals while managing other life commitments.