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Master of Professional Studies in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Program Overview

The Master of Professional Studies in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is designed for early-to-mid-career professionals seeking a more foundational knowledge of GIS that goes beyond learning the basics of technology or application of analytical tools. As a GIS student, you will learn crucial GIS methods that connect global thinking with local action. You will also contribute to projects that address timely societal and environmental issues with a place-based dimension.

Why Study Geographic Information Systems (GIS)?

The UMBCs Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.) in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) program is designed for those interested in establishing their GIS credentials that rest on systematic critical thinking as it applies to social and environmental disciplines. The two-year program gives students the knowledge, tools, and modern programming language (R and Python) exposure for application in two distinct areas. The first is to prepare students to analyze social and environmental issues with stronger critical thinking methods. The second is to develop technologies and tools that appropriately address GIS requirements needed to provide solutions to solve spatial problems.

At a Glance

• Terms of Admission: Fall, Spring
• Campus Locations: Catonsville
• Schedule: Full-time, Part-time
• Department: Office of Professional Programs
• College: College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Program Designations: STEM Designation Eligible

What Are My Career Options Studying Geographic Information Systems (GIS)?

This Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a 10-course/30-credit applied science program designed for students seeking either professional or academic careers. The program is specifically for those interested in establishing their GIS credentials that rest on systematic critical thinking as it applies to social and environmental disciplines.

Career Options

Students in this new GIS program follow a series of linked courses that share a methodological approach to enhance their GIS skills and knowledge by developing sharp critical thinking skills to properly plan for solutions. Each class, whether analytical or technical, employs scientific methods to assess problems by formulating plans and creating processes to produce well-thought-out and reasoned solutions in cartographic production, programming, dynamic visualization, data management, and spatial analysis.

Tuition, Scholarships & Financial Aid

UMBC participates in all federal and state student financial aid programs and offers scholarships and assistantships through the Graduate School, Graduate Departments, and the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.

Financial Aid Options

• 20252026 Graduate Cost Calculator
• Graduate Assistantships
• Fellowships
• Funding Your Education

Program Requirements

Admission Requirements

• A bachelors degree and 3.0 GPA (Students with a GPA less than 3.0 may be admitted to the Certificate program)
• Statement outlining the students goals and expectations in the program
• Current resume
• Two Letters of Recommendation (MPS only; Optional for Certificate)
• Official transcript(s) from each college & university attended
• GRE is not required
• English proficiency testing (TOEFL/ IELTS) is required for international students

Application Deadlines

Fall Semester

• All Students: Apply by August 1

Spring Semester

• All Students: Apply by December 1

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Program Contacts

Main Contact

• Admissions

Graduate Program Director

• Dillon Mahmoudi

Assistant Graduate Program Director

• Ron Wilson

Program Coordinator

• Current Student Help

UMBC Graduate School Admissions Office Contact Information

Mailing Address

• UMBC Graduate School 1000 Hilltop Circle Baltimore, MD 21250

Admissions Staff

• Staff are available from Mon - Fri, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.