Geography-Geographic Information Science

  • Degree Levels:
  • Graduate Certificate
  • Master
  • Delivery Options:
  • St. Cloud (On Campus)
  • Evenings/Weekends

Currently, the Geography GIS M.S. program is not accepting applications at this time.

Geographic Information Science prepares you for a career focusing on the physical, biological and human environment while receiving high-quality instruction in geospatial technologies, image processing and cartography. You will experience state-of-the-art technologies as you prepare for an emphasis in physical/environmental geography or urban/regional issues. 

The Geographic Information Science graduate certificate is for students who wish to advance study in geographic techniques such as thematic cartography, map design and presentation, GIS techniques, digital image processing and spatial analysis. You can earn the certificate regardless of whether or not you complete a master's degree.

An undergraduate major or minor in geography is not required to pursue the Geographic Information Science graduate certificate. Although a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is necessary for admission to the program.

  • The GIS certificate is available for students who wish advanced study in geographic techniques.
  • The certificate may be awarded regardless of completion of a master's degree.
University Catalog Program Requirements Geography Geography Graduate Assistantships Graduate Assistantships

Program Highlights

  • Two graduate assistantship positions sponsored each year.
  • Small class sizes with professors dedicated to one-on-one mentoring. 
  • Classroom leadership opportunities. 
  • State-of-the-art GIS lab.

Program Distinctions

  • Close to 100 percent professional employment for graduates, others have been accepted into Ph.D. programs. 
  • Students have won awards at the Association of American Geographers national meetings. 
  • Graduates work in many federal, state and local agencies and in the private sector including: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Minnesota Department of Military Affairs, City of Minneapolis, Target, Starbucks, Xcel Energy, ESRI, National Resource Group LLC, GeoComm, North Point Geographic Solutions and more.
  • Faculty research interests encompass historical, cultural, economic, physical and environmental geography as well as the geographic techniques LIDAR, precision surveying, geovisualization, multivariate statistics, phytolith analysis and more. 

Graduate Director

Dr. Mikhail Blinnikov

Popular Careers

  • GIS consultant
  • Researcher
  • System analyst
  • GIS/Internet mapping
  • GIS specialist

Application Deadlines

U.S. Citizens International
Outside U.S.		 International
Inside U.S.
Fall Aug. 1 June 15 Aug. 1
Spring Dec. 1 Oct. 15 Dec. 1
Summer N/A N/A N/A