Online Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems
Students with an MS in Geographic Information Systems will have the knowledge and tools to use technology and scientific reasoning to solve complex geographic problems in a variety of applications such as land-use planning, climate, environment, business, finance, architecture, design, community, and urban development as well as public safety.
What is Geographic Information Systems?
There is an ever-growing science to developing the geographical structure of a unique area. The Master’s in Geographic Information Systems is the understanding of data to make informed decisions surrounding geographical areas and various other plots of surfaces. Whether you are wanting to learn about the intricacies of mapping, remote sensing, or geospatial data this program’s design is to help you achieve your goals. Students who graduate from this program will have a strong theoretical understanding of GIS and hands-on experience with industry-relevant technology.
Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems Program Highlights
High Quality Education
This program offers a variety of courses in GIS. Students can choose from spatial analysis, data mining, remote sensing, and intermediate and advanced GIS courses. These courses provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to use popular ESRI software and databases for their projects. You’ll find courses in hydrology, crime mapping, and public health. These courses give students the opportunity to learn about the latest methods and technologies used in these fields.
This Master’s in GIS program is well-rounded and provides students with the skills they need to be successful in the field:
- Expertise in geospatial technology such as ArcGIS, QGIS, and other relevant tools.
- Knowledge of remote sensing technologies
- Spatial analysis skills including spatial statistics, overlay analysis, proximity analysis, and spatial modeling
- Experience with GIS API’s and libraries
- Essential skills in cartography
- Professional networking through faculty and potential internship opportunities
You’ve made it! It’s time to add a cap on your Master’s in GIS journey with the University of Cincinnati Online’s innovative capstone experience. Tailored to your individual career options and expertise, this transformative endeavor allows you to bring real-world relevance to your studies. Choose to integrate a project from your current professional landscape, amplifying its impact with advanced GIS principles, or explore new horizons through a strategically chosen internship. The capstone is more than a culmination; it’s a dynamic exploration designed to expand your GIS knowledge. Whether fortifying your current career trajectory or laying the groundwork for a new path, the capstone equips you with a depth of expertise ready to impress employers. Elevate your GIS journey with the University of Cincinnati Online, where the capstone is not just a requirement—it’s your opportunity to shine.
Flexibility
- 100% online
- Easy to transfer credits
- Enroll in the spring, summer, or fall semesters
- All courses led by faculty with direct industry experience
- Financial aid available
Support from Application through Graduation
At UC, you’ll have a full support team behind you:
Enrollment Services Advisor: Your go-to resource during the application process
Student Success Coordinator: Helping you prepare for classes and stay on track
Access to Resources: Access to university resources that will support you through your program including online learning expectations and resources, health and wellness resources, and academic support
Admission to the University of Cincinnati’s online Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems program is selective. Students should be highly motivated to pursue this degree and must meet the requirements outlined below.
If you are unsure or have questions. We Can Help! Contact an Enrollment Services Advisor today!
Prerequisites
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
- Background or interest in geography or spatial analysis
- GPA: At least a B average (3.0/4.0 system) in undergraduate course work. If your background is not from GIS or if your GPA is below a 3.0, how has your past experience prepared you be successful in an MS in Geographic Information Systems? For example, what types of courses (university or online), industry experience, certificates have you completed to build skills in this area. Or what is it about your personal disposition or work ethic that would help you be successful in this program?
Complete the online application and submit the application fee.
Standard Application Fees:
- $65.00 for domestic applicants to most degree programs
- $70.00 for international applicants to most degree programs
- $20.00 for domestic applicants to Graduate Certificates
- $25.00 for international applicants to Graduate Certificates
- Application fees for UC Online programs are waived through Fall 2026 for all applicants who apply by July 1, 2026
- Fee waivers are automatically applied for applicants who: are currently serving in the US armed forces, or are veterans of the US armed forces.
Applications are accepted continuously throughout the year. Please review and submit the following materials:
All applicants are required to upload unofficial transcripts during the application process, showing all undergraduate and graduate course work completed, including degrees granted and dates of conferral.
Official transcripts are not required until the student has received and accepted an offer of admission from the university. Once the offer has been confirmed, the student must submit official transcripts.
Students who have received degrees from the University of Cincinnati do not need to submit official paper copies of their UC transcripts.
For questions regarding international students, contact an Enrollment Services Advisor.
Transcripts can be submitted electronically or by mail. To see if your transcript(s) can be ordered electronically, visit the links below and search for your previous school(s).
- Parchment
- Please select “University of Cincinnati – Main Campus” as the recipient of your transcript.
- National Student Clearinghouse
- Please have your transcript sent directly to admissions@uc.edu.
If you do not see your past school(s) listed on either site, please contact the school(s) directly. Then, mail your sealed, unopened, official transcripts to:
Please mail sealed, unopened, official transcripts to:
University of Cincinnati
Office of Admissions
PO Box 210091
Cincinnati, Ohio 45221-0091
Two letters of reference from individuals who know you professionally or academically. Recommendation letters should be submitted on letterhead with a clear indication of what the relationship is between the recommender and applicant.
Current resume or curriculum vitae.
Briefly describe your education background, past research experience, anticipated research project and topic, and explains your reason for pursuing the degree.
An official TOEFL/IELTS is required for all international applicants.
International applicants must also submit foreign transcripts for evaluation to an agency recognized by the National Association of Credential Evaluating Services (NACES; www.naces.org).
| Term | Application Deadline | Classes Start |
|---|---|---|
Summer 2026 Fall 2026 |
April 22, 2026 August 15, 2026 |
May 11, 2026 August 24, 2026 |
At the University of Cincinnati Online, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to pursuing your goals. We understand that many students face financial constraints when considering advanced education. That’s why we’ve worked tirelessly to ensure our Master’s in GIS program remains affordable. With tuition rates below the average cost of most GIS master’s degrees in the US, you can pursue your passion without the burden of excessive student debt.
The University of Cincinnati's online course fees differ depending on the program. On average, students will accrue fewer fees than students attending on-campus classes.
The one fee applied across all UC Online programs is the distance learning fee. Students living outside the state of Ohio must also pay an additional “non-resident” fee to enroll in courses at UC Online. This fee is lower than the out-of-state fee for traditional on-campus programs.
To view tuition information and program costs, visit the Online Program Fees page.
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