Program Overview
The Master's of Arts in Geographic Information Science (M.A.Geo.) program at Texas State University equips students with the knowledge and skills to address real-world issues with geographical dimensions. Through collaboration with renowned faculty, students develop proficiency in GIS, geographic theories, and research methods. The program offers specializations in General Geography, Geography Resource and Environmental Studies, Geographic Information Science, and Geographic Education, preparing graduates for careers in environmental management, GIScience, planning, and other related fields.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Master's of Arts in Geographic Information Science (M.A.Geo.) program at Texas State University equips students with the knowledge and skills to address real-world issues with geographical dimensions. Through collaboration with esteemed faculty renowned for their research, mentorship, and teaching, students embark on a journey of professional development that encompasses research and teaching opportunities. The department's involvement in various research centers, both internationally and within the university, further enhances the program's academic offerings.
Objectives:
The program aims to provide students with:
- A comprehensive understanding of geographic theories and problem-solving techniques in environmental, physical, and human geography, geographic information sciences, and geographic education.
- Proficiency in utilizing geographic information systems (GIS) to analyze spatial data and solve complex geographic problems.
- The ability to conduct independent research and effectively communicate their findings.
- Preparation for professional careers or doctoral studies in geography or related fields.
Program Structure:
The M.A.Geo. program consists of 33 credit hours, including:
- Core Courses (9 credit hours):
- Introduction to Geographic Information Science
- Geographic Information Systems Analysis and Modeling
- Geographic Data Analysis
- Skills Courses (6 credit hours):
- Students select two skills courses from a variety of options, such as:
- Advanced Geographic Information Systems
- Spatial Statistics
- Remote Sensing
- Cartography
- Electives (12 credit hours):
- Students choose electives in one of four specialization areas:
- General Geography
- Geography Resource and Environmental Studies
- Geographic Information Science
- Geographic Education (100% online)
Teaching:
- The program is delivered by a dedicated faculty recognized nationally and internationally for their research, mentorship, and teaching accomplishments.
- Students benefit from close collaboration with faculty, engaging in research and teaching opportunities.
- The department emphasizes the theoretical and applied realms of geography in all its curricula, leading the discipline with innovative applied work.
- The program actively seeks to recruit top students nationally and internationally, fostering a diverse and intellectually stimulating learning environment.
Careers:
- M.A.Geo. graduates typically pursue professional careers in various fields, including:
- Environmental management
- Geographic Information Science (GIScience)
- Physical and environmental geography
- Planning
- Alumni work in diverse settings, including:
- Private and public sectors
- Federal agencies
- Research centers
- The program also prepares students for continued education at the doctoral level.
Texas State's 37,979 students choose from 97 bachelor’s, 88 master’s and 12 doctoral degree programs offered by the following colleges: Applied Arts, McCoy College of Business Administration, Education, Fine Arts and Communication, Health Professions, Liberal Arts, Science and Engineering, University College and The Graduate College.
Services
Student services
The University has an International Office whose mission is:
- Serving as immigration and cultural advisers to our international students and scholars, advocating on their behalf, and providing services and information that facilitate their cultural adjustment, retention and success.
- Assisting the university at large and our international students, alumni, scholars, faculty and staff in particular, in complying with governmental policies and regulations.
- Promoting global awareness and internationalization at the university by facilitating international agreements, and by administering international programming through hosting and sponsoring international events.
Housing services
Housing at Texas State is unique because students choose which hall they would like to live in, so students can choose any available space in the halls. We offer a variety of living options to accommodate the diverse needs of our resident population. While styles range from traditional to apartment style, the Department of Housing and Residential life believes a traditional hall is the best for first-year students. These halls create a strong sense of community and students living in traditional halls tend to do better academically and socially.Housing is first-come, first served so make sure to sign a contract as soon as possible.
Library services
Albert B. Alkek Library is the most important information resource of the Texas State University community. The Alkek Library Collection Includes:
- More than 1.5 million printed volumes
- 99,700+ electronic journals
- 506,000 e-books
- 430+ databases.
- Over a half-million microform & audio-visual materials.
ICT services
Operating within the Division of Information Technology, Technology Resources provides secure, robust and cost-effective information technologies to Texas State University. We deliver secure telephone, computing, and Internet access as well as provide customer-focused technical support and training to assure optimal use of information technology.
Medical services
Texas State international students are required to obtain coverage under the designated international student health insurance policy or present acceptable proof of other comparable and adequate health insurance coverage to the Student Health Center. The Student Health Center is now offering a new Travel Health Service for all Texas State students, faculty and staff.
Student Life
Campus life
Located about 20 miles outside of San Marcos in Wimberley, Texas, the University Camp is a 126-acre hideaway on the scenic Blanco River boasting two lodges, six campsites, four day-use sites, and several miles of hiking/biking trails. The University Camp is also home to the Texas State GOAL Challenge Course Program. The 3.5 mile trail system courses throughout the property and provides many scenic and nature study opportunities. Mountain biking is a popular trail activity, and portions of the trail are suitable only for experienced riders. The trail is great for family hikes and nature viewing.Swimming, wading, snorkeling, and fishing are excellent in the clear pools above and below the falls.
Sports facilities
The Bobcat Club is the principal fundraising arm of the Texas State Intercollegiate Athletics Department. The Bobcat Club has provided a way for supporters to help talented Texas State student-athletes receive a top-tier education while pursuing their goals both on and off the field of competition. The Department of Campus Recreation will be recognized as a leader in recreation and leisure services.
Student clubs
- CE - National Association of Colleges and Employers
- SoACE - Southern Association of Colleges and Employers
- CEIAINC - Cooperative Education & Internship Association
- TxCEIA - Texas Cooperative Education & Internship Association, Inc.
- NSEA - National Student Employment Association
- SASEA - Southern Association of Student Employment Administrator
- NCDA - National Career Development Association
- SAHRMA - San Antonio Human Resources Management Association
- AHRMA - Austin Human Resources Management Association
- SACUCCA - San Antonio Area Colleges and Universities Career Centers Assoc.
- CTLACC - Central Texas Liberal Arts Career Consortium
Accreditation
SACS - Southern Association of Colleges and Schools has reaffirmed its accreditation of Texas State UniversityABET - Accreditation Board for Engineering and TechnologyACCE - American Council for Construction Education - Accredited February 2013ATMAE - Association of Technology, Management, and Applied EngineeringNSC - National Steering Committee - Concrete Industry Management Program
