What You'll Learn
Impact the World with Innovative and Emerging Technology
The online MS in Geographic Information Science program from Calvin University will prepare you to conduct geographic research and examine information in the context of culture and history. As you earn your MS in GISC online, you’ll take classes that offer a Christian liberal arts perspective and experience with cutting-edge technologies.
What Makes This Program Great
- Unique program: Calvin University is the only place you can get a Master in GIS online at a Christian university!
- Fully online: Our program is completely asynchronous and online, meaning you can fit it into your busy life.
- Semester-length courses: Take the time you need to hone and master your GIS skills across 16-week courses.
- Hands-on experience through virtual lab component
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- Total estimated tuition, not including fees: $20,190
- Financial aid is available
- No GRE/GMAT required
Duration
Cost per credit
Total credit hours
What You’ll Learn
After completing the online MS in GIS program, you’ll be able to:
- Navigate sophisticated and emerging technology in the field of geographic information science, including GPS software and drones.
- Collect, use and examine census data in the context of culture and history.
- Design and maintain geospatial databases.
Gain Cutting-Edge Training for an In-Demand Industry
The curriculum is based on the industry-standard University Consortium for Geographic Information Science GIS&T Body of Knowledge. While seeking your Master’s in GISC online, you’ll explore innovative technologies in classes taught by world-renowned educators with professional experience in the field.
You'll dive into the questions surrounding your studies and explore how you can make a positive impact on the world. The online program provides hands-on experience through a virtual lab component. You'll train on drones for remote sensing and learn state-of-the-art techniques using modern software.
Course Spotlight
GEO 562 Remote Sensing of Earth
This course provides an introduction to remote sensing of Earth. During the semester students engage in the physics and technical aspects of photogrammetry and satellite imagery for the study of physical and human-created aspects of Earth. This course includes a laboratory component as an integral learning method using remote sensing software and drones. Topics covered in this course range from aerial photography to analysis of 3D models of terrain to the sustainability of sprawl in urban systems. Multiple themes of application will be discussed.
GEO 566 Geospatial Programming and Data Management
This course provides students with foundational knowledge in python and map objects programing for GIS. Students will learn python programming language. Emphasis will be on ESRI model builder, scripting for ArcToolBox, and custom design workflows using Map Objects. Geospatial data management best practices, ArcGIS Server, and geodatabase design will be explored. Students will construct a custom GIS solution for a public or private business. No previous programming experience is necessary but is recommended.
Build Skills for Your Career
You'll leave the program prepared to apply your knowledge across various fields, including:
- Geography
- Cartography
- Data science
- Environmental consulting
- Civil engineering
- Parks management
- Public health
- Census
- Business logistics.
Median pay for some GIS professions in 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
Geoscientist
Geographer
Advance in a Rewarding Career
Regardless of your chosen GIS career path, this program will provide you with the advanced skills and hands-on technology experience needed to achieve your goals.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, geographic information science is expanding at a steady pace of 5% per year. At this rate of expansion, more than 1,600 new GIS careers will be available by 2029.
How to Apply
Admissions requirements
- Degree and Minimum GPA: Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last two years of an undergraduate program.
- Transcripts: Applicants must submit an official transcript from the institution that granted their bachelor’s degree as well as unofficial transcripts from any other credit-granting institution. An official transcript is also required for any graduate work an applicant would like considered for transfer credit. Transcripts must demonstrate a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Official GMAT/GRE: Not required
- Additional Requirements: A personal statement, two letters of recommendation and a CV or resume must be submitted.
- International Students: This degree is 100% online, international students are not eligible to obtain a Visa for this program.
Your Support Network
Calvin's GIS Faculty are world-class experts in GIS and academic geographers that deliver the technical skills within a broad conceptual framework. They bring real-world experience to every class to ensure you develop the skills you need for career success.
Faculty
Jason E. VanHorn
FAQ
Yes. The online Master’s in Geographic Information Science program offers both part- and full-time options.
Yes. The online Master’s in Geographic Information Science program offers both part- and full-time options.
Yes. This program accepts transfer credit with program director approval.
The faculty includes tenured, full-time professors who bring extensive, real-world experience to each class.
Miscellaneous fees associated with this program may include textbooks, supplies, personal expenses, or loan fees. Consider these costs when budgeting for your education.