Data is increasingly changing the way our world works, and with that comes a growing need for specialists who can gather, manage, analyze and visualize complex geographic and spatial data to help us make smarter decisions. PSU's master's in Geographic Information Science (GIS) meets that demand by equipping you with the hands-on geospatial training and the technical knowledge you need to successfully become a GIS professional or advance your GIS career.
At PSU, we offer:
- Hands-on experience in the use of leading GIS and remote sensing software
- Flexibility with hybrid and online classes
- Opportunities to work with community partners on real-world applications
This dynamic field offers opportunities in many sectors, from government and urban planning to business, environmental studies, and health. Employers across our region and state are seeking employees with advanced, graduate-level GIS training. Join our program and launch a career where you'll help solve complex social, economic, and environmental issues.
Our master's degree in GIS trains you in skills that are widely sought after both locally and nationally. Our focus on geospatial technologies prepares you to tackle real-world problems through the collection and analysis of locational intelligence, from solving homelessness to developing smart cities.
Through our courses, taught by faculty who are actively engaged in GIS research, you'll master key GIS competencies, including geospatial software tools, map production and cartography, 3D and terrain modeling and analysis, spatial database design, GIS programming, remote sensing systems and data, and UAS and GPS mapping.
The Portland metro region is home to many major GIS companies, mid-size GIS consultant companies and government agencies who are increasingly seeking to enhance their GIS capacities, and you'll have the opportunity to collaborate with a community partner on a project-based practicum.
Our GIS faculty members, together with the student GIS Club, regularly interact with the GIS communities through speaker series, GIS co-op and internship opportunities and professional conferences such as the GIS in Action and Portland Cartography Symposium.
Geospatial technology is considered a high-growth industry, and our graduates go on to enhance our region and state's GIS capacity and capabilities in a variety of fields, including anthropology, communication, criminal justice, environmental science, geology, history, urban planning and transportation engineering.
You can pursue the program as a standalone master's degree, or begin your training in our graduate GIS certificate program.
Our program meets the academic requirements to be certified by the GIS Certificate Institute (GISCI) and the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS).