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Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems

Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems

The MS GIS program combines the development of strong technical skills and in-depth understanding of geographic information systems and theory. Students will work with a client to solve a real-world problem in their Individual Major Projects.

Degrees Offered

Master of Science

Program Types

Graduate

Mode of Study

On Campus

What is a Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems (MS GIS) degree?

The Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems (MS GIS) degree is designed for professionals and recent graduates seeking to enhance their knowledge of the analysis, management, and communication of geographic information.

Why earn an MS GIS at Redlands? 

At Redlands, you'll learn the critical theoretical foundations and the cutting-edge geospatial technologies, but also explore broader issues related to effective and appropriate application of the technology. Through one-on-one mentorship, you'll put your skills into practice with a project that addresses a real-world spatial problem for an external client or in a professional internship. When you graduate, you'll be prepared personally and professionally to make an impact in your career, your community, and across the globe.

Overview and courses

The Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems (MS GIS) degree is designed for professionals and recent graduates seeking to enhance their knowledge of the analysis, management, and communication of geographic information. It combines the development of strong technical skills and in-depth understanding of geographic information systems and theory. The one-year program consists of 10 months of coursework and the undertaking of a Major Individual Project. The two-year program consists of six 14-week semesters (including summers).

Core Courses

  • GIS 611 Fundamentals of Geographic Information
  • GIS 691 Project Concept & Scope
  • GIS 692 Project Management

Elective Courses

  • GIS 630 GIS Professional Practice
  • GIS 660 GIS Workshops
  • GIS 661 Topics Courses
  • GIS 662 Geographic Database Management Systems
  • GIS 663 Remote Sensing & Image Processing
  • GIS 665 Geospatial Analysis
  • GIS 666 Projections and Coordinate Systems
  • GIS 667 Programming for GIS
  • GIS 668 Communicating Geographic Information 
  • GIS 669 GIS for the Web
  • GIS 671/672/673 Individualized Study

Major Individual Project Courses

  • GIS 695 Project Implementation
  • GIS 696 Project Completion

Esri Training Courses

Six Esri training courses are offered in the year and topics include ArcGIS Pro, WebApp Builder, Geoprocessing Scripting, Managing Geodatabases, Sharing GIS Content, and ArcGIS Enterprise. Students also have unlimited access to Esri Virtual Campus classes. 

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

  • Understand the spatial aspects of an external client’s needs and develop a practical project plan for addressing these needs design, compile, and develop a spatial database and a set of analytical tools into a system appropriate to solve a geospatial problem
  • Demonstrate a mastery of geographic analysis and cartographic skills
  • Effectively communicate and present project results in oral, written, and graphic forms.

Learn more about learning outcomes via the current university catalog.

Graduate application deadlines
Upcoming
Spring 2025, Summer 2025, Fall 2025. Students are encouraged to submit their application by the priority application date in order to expedite processing and ensure a smooth enrollment experience.
View deadlines

Want to know more?

Get in touch with our admissions team.

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