Program Overview

Master of Geographic Information Science and Technology

The Master of Geographic Information Science and Technology (MGIST) program at Ohio State University is designed to equip students with advanced GIS tools, spatial analysis techniques, and applied geoinformatics knowledge. The program is tailored for working professionals and can be completed 100% online.

Program Overview

The MGIST program is a 33-credit hour program that can be completed in as few as four semesters. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to progress at a pace that fits their professional and personal schedule. Students can choose to enroll part-time or full-time, depending on their needs.

Admission Criteria

To apply for the online MGIST program, students must submit the following materials:

• Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended, including proof of a bachelors degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
• Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who can speak to the student's readiness for graduate study.
• A statement of purpose outlining the student's goals, interests in geospatial science and technology, and how this degree aligns with their career path.
• A current rťsumť or CV highlighting relevant coursework, internships, professional experience, or technical training that demonstrates the student's preparedness for the program.

Career Outlook

A masters in GIS can set students apart in todays data-driven world, where advanced geospatial skills are in high demand. The MGIST program prepares students for leadership roles in GIS analysis, spatial data science, remote sensing, and more, opening doors to career growth and higher earning potential.

Top Occupations by Median Income

Some of the top occupations by median income for MGIST graduates include:

• Brownfield Redevelopment Specialists & Site Managers: $136,550
• Cartographers & Photogrammetrists: $78,380
• Data Scientists: $112,590
• Database Administrators: $104,620
• Emergency Management Directors: $86,130
• Farmers, Ranchers, & Other Agricultural Managers: $87,980
• Geodetic Surveyors: $72,740
• Geographic Information Systems Technologists & Technicians: $108,970
• Remote Sensing Scientists & Technologists: $117,960
• Surveyors: $72,740
• Urban & Regional Planners: $83,720
• Water Resource Specialists: $161,180
• Wind Energy Development Managers: $136,550

Curriculum

The online MGIST program offers a structured yet adaptable curriculum. Students begin with foundational courses in geographic information systems, cartography, and remote sensing, followed by electives in areas such as geospatial data management, programming, and spatial analytics.

Required Core Courses

• GEOG 5101 GIST Professionalism and Ethics
• GEOG 5200 Cartography and Map Design
• GEOG 5210 Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems
• GEOG 5225 Geographic Applications of Remote Sensing

Intermediate Elective Courses

Students choose three courses from the following options:

• GEOG 5103 Intermediate Spatial Data Analysis
• GEOG 5201 GeoVisualization
• GEOG 5212 Geospatial Databases for GIS
• GEOG 5222 GIS Algorithms and Programming
• GEOG 5229 Emerging Topics in GIS

Advanced Elective Courses

Students choose three courses from the following options:

• GEOG 5223 Design and Implementation of GIS
• GEOG 5226 Spatial Simulation and Modeling in GIS
• GEOG 6223 Web GIS Development
• GEOG 6286 Geodemography: GIS in Social Science and Business Research
• PUBAFRS 7555 Project Management in the Public Sector

Required Capstone Project

• GEOG 6299 GIS Capstone Project

Program Faculty

The MGIST program is taught by accomplished faculty who are experts in their fields. The program director is Ningchuan Xiao, a professor in the Department of Geography.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for the MGIST program are as follows:

• Instructional Fee: $829.75 per credit hour
• General Fee: $32.63 per credit hour
• College/Program Learning Technology Fee: $27.00 per credit hour
• Distance Learning Fee: $100.00 per semester
• Non-Resident Surcharge (if applicable): $200.00 per semester

Financial Aid

Students can explore financial aid options, including scholarships, awards, and military assistance, to help fund their education.

Testimonials

MGIST students and graduates have praised the program for its flexibility, relevance, and career impact.