Geographic Information Systems, MAS
Data Analysis, Data Science, GIS, Mapping, Programming, SPATIAL, Technology, approved for STEM-OPT extension, geography, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)
Are you interested in working with computers and new technologies? Do you appreciate thoughtful design? Do you have a passion for problem-solving? Combine these highly marketable skills and interests, and be prepared for an in-demand career.
The Master of Advanced Study program in geographic information systems is a compact, one-year master's degree program that fosters advanced study in the management and use of GIS technology in public and corporate environments. The program meets important educational needs of working professionals and recent college graduates seeking to improve their career standing. This comprehensive professional program balances work in the theoretical and technical aspects of GIS with the applications domain. Students are exposed to innovative technology with a focus on building invaluable problem-solving skills, and they have the opportunity to work on practical, applicable GIS projects.
The program places the focus on location --- the heart of geography and GIS. From that foundation, students learn advanced modeling solutions in GIS and Earth observing, as well as how to integrate computer science, statistics and geography to address a multitude of questions.
Small class sizes ensure quality attention from the faculty, and classes are held in the evening during the week, allowing flexibility for the working professional.
The degree is achievable in one year. A new cohort begins the program each August, with students attending evening classes during the fall and spring semesters. Upon completion of the spring semester, students select a project to complete during a summer eight-week session. Final presentations take place in mid-July, completing the program.
This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.
The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.
- College/school:
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Location: Tempe
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
30 credit hours including the required applied project course (GPH 693 or GIS 693)
Required Core (24 credit hours)
GIS 601 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (2)
GIS 602 Intermediate GIS (2)
GIS 603 Spatial Statistics and Modeling (2)
GIS 604 Implementation in the Corporate and Public Sectors (2)
GIS 605 GIS Project Planning and Implementation (2)
GIS 606 GIS Project Presentation (2)
GIS 610 Programming the GIS Environment (3)
GIS 630 GIS Technologies (3)
GIS 640 GIS for Business (3)
GIS 650 GIS for the Internet (3)
Other Requirement (3 credit hours)
GIS 684 Internship (3)
Culminating Experience (3 credit hours)
GIS 693 Applied Project (3) or
GPH 693 Applied Project (3)
Additional Curriculum Information
Other Requirement coursework may be substituted with approval of the academic unit.
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Applicants must have earned a bachelor's degree in a related field from a regionally accredited institution or a bachelor's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution if they demonstrate a minimum of three years of related professional experience.
Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program.
All applicants must submit:
- graduate admission application and application fee
- official transcripts
- personal statement
- resume
- two letters of recommendation
- proof of English proficiency
Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.
Applicants must prepare a formal, written personal statement regarding relevant academic experience, professional experience and overall interest in GIS.
Letters of recommendation must be from two people who can attest to the applicant's academic and professional achievements. Letters can be from any combination of current or former instructors, supervisors or professionals currently employed within the GIS field or a related discipline.
Professionals with expertise in geospatial information science are in high demand across sectors and industries, including consulting firms, government agencies and community organizations. Skills in geographical data science, mapping and data analysis are valuable to businesses and institutions that rely on data-driven approaches to solve complex practical problems.
Graduates are prepared for careers in private and public industry. Employees with these skill sets are needed for a wide variety of positions, such as software developer, GIS analyst, mapping engineer, real estate researcher and more. Additional career examples include:
- cartographer or photogrammetrist
- geospatial information scientist or technologist
- geospatial intelligence analyst
- mapping technician
- remote sensing scientist or technologist
- software developer
ASU programs that may lead to professional licensure or certification are intended to prepare students for potential licensure or certification in Arizona. Completion of an ASU program may not meet educational requirements for licensure or certification in another state. For more information, students should visit the ASU professional licensure webpage.
School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning
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COOR 5671
SGSUP.gradprograms@asu.edu
480-965-7533
3 year programs
These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
