Geographic information science

Master of Science

Idaho EPSCoR GEM3 research stations

The science of earth and space

In a world confronted by the impact of humans on the physical earth, the need for experts that can address that impact is high. With a wide array of application areas using spatial technologies, datasets, and models that will inform environmental decisions, assess climate change solutions, monitor natural disasters and more, you will be a part of finding the answers our nation and world need.

This degree has a core of advanced GIS courses with seven different options for specialization, including:

  • Remote sensing
  • GIS programming
  • Natural hazards and emergency planning
  • Geospatial aspects of sustainable planning
  • Geotechnician
  • Geospatial habitat assessment
  • Geospatial intelligence

Thesis and non-thesis options allow working professionals to pursue this degree while continuing to work, with access to advanced research laboratories equipped for study in an array of areas.

Overview
Duration:
2 years, 30 credits
Locations:
Moscow, Online

Related Topics

TechnologyEnvironmental science

A map to the future

Degree fit

This degree could be a good fit if you:

  • Want to advance your career in environmental science
  • Need to keep pace with technological advances in the field
  • Like to choose your academic pace
  • Enjoy low student-to-teacher ratio
Career outcomes

Current job openings

602 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HI

Potential careers and starting salaries

  • GIS Technicians
    $61,877
  • Remote Sensing Technicians
    $37,236
  • Surveying and Mapping Technicians
    $41,894
  • Urban and Regional Planners
    $67,317
  • Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists
    $61,448
View all careers
Career Services

* Career data provided by Lightcast.

Financial aid and scholarship opportunities

Financial aid

Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.

For information on FAFSA deadlines, financial aid types and eligibility requirements, visit the University of Idaho Financial Aid Office website.

Plan ahead—estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.

Clubs and involvement opportunities

Hands-on learning

Many of your courses will include a lab, and you’ll also have opportunities to contribute to faculty research projects, including:

  • Polar meteorology and remote sensing in arctic environments
  • Regional climate change in the western United States
  • Forest disturbances and environmental change
  • Human adaptation to climate change in high latitudes
  • Natural resource applications of GIS in quantifying carbon fluxes

Clubs

  • GeoClub
Application information

Application requirements for an M.S. in geographic information science include:

  • Education level: Bachelor's
  • GPA: 3.0
  • GRE: No
  • TOEFL/IELTS: 79/6.5
  • Number of references: 3

Visit Graduate Admissions to learn more and start your application.

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