Geographic Information Science, MS
The Master of Science in Geographic Information Science (MS GISc) is a one-year graduate degree program. With a streamlined program of study, students will learn theory and applications of spatial thinking/reasoning and use of GIS to support problem solving and decision making. The program will harness a wide array of courses in GISci, statistics, computer science, geography, urban and regional planning and their intersection through 8 upper division courses.
The Master of Science in Geographic Information Science degree is an approved field of study within the U.S. government’s official STEM fields list. When a student earns a degree in a field on the STEM fields list, they may be eligible for the 24-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. OPT is defined as practical work experience in your field of study after completion of a degree. With a STEM degree, a student’s “regular” OPT of 12 months may be extended for an additional 24 months. International applicants can inquire for further details regarding STEM extensions from the SJSU International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)
Accepting Students for Fall 2025!
Geographic Information Science (GISc), MS - Catalog Listing
Includes Admission Requirements, Requirements for Advancement to Candidacy and Graduation,
as well as Master's Requirements.
If you are interested in applying for MS GISc, please contact the Geography/GIS Graduate Advisor, Ahoura Zandiatashbar.
A Master of Science in Geographic Information Science (MS GISc) opens up a wide range of potential career paths across various industries:
- Geospatial Analyst
Analyze spatial data to create maps and reports, supporting decision-making in sectors like urban planning, environmental management, and transportation.
Industries: Government, environmental consulting, urban planning, transportation. - GIS Developer
Develop and maintain GIS software and applications, often involving programming and database management.
Industries: Technology, software development, government, private GIS firms. - Cartographer
Design and produce maps using GIS technology, focusing on aesthetics and functionality.
Industries: Publishing, government, education, environmental organizations. - Urban Planner
Use GIS to analyze urban data and help design and implement plans for urban development and land use.
Industries: Government, urban planning firms, real estate development. - Environmental Scientist
Utilize GIS to study environmental data and address issues like conservation, pollution, and natural resource management.
Industries: Environmental consulting, government, non-profits. - Remote Sensing Specialist
Analyze satellite and aerial imagery to gather information about the Earth's surface.
Environmental monitoring, agriculture, defense, disaster management. - Geospatial Data Scientist
Integrate GIS with data science techniques to analyze large datasets and extract meaningful insights.
Industries: Technology, finance, healthcare, logistics. - Location Analyst
Use GIS to support site selection and market analysis for retail, real estate, and logistics.
Industries: Retail, real estate, logistics, consulting. - Transportation Planner
Apply GIS to plan and analyze transportation systems, improving efficiency and accessibility.
Industries: Government, transportation agencies, consulting firms. - Disaster Response Specialist
Utilize GIS to prepare for and respond to natural and man-made disasters, focusing on risk assessment and management.
Industries: Government, non-profits, international organizations. - GIS Manager
Oversee GIS projects and teams, ensuring the effective use of GIS technology within an organization.
Industries: Government, private companies, non-profits. - Academic Researcher/Professor
Conduct research and teach GIS-related courses in academic institutions.
Industries: Universities, research institutions.
Skills in Demand that a SJSU MS GISc student will earn:
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS), programming languages (e.g., Python, R), and database management.
- Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze spatial data and interpret results.
- Communication Skills: Effectively present findings through maps, reports, and presentations.
- Project Management: Ability to manage GIS projects from inception to completion.
These professional organizations can provide networking opportunities, professional development, and certification programs that can enhance career prospects:
- URISA - Urban and Regional Information Systems Association
- GISCI - GIS Certification Institute
- AAG - American Association of Geographers
If you are interested in applying for MS GISc, please contact the Geography/GIS Graduate Advisor, Ahoura Zandiatashbar.
