
M.S. in Geographic Information Science & Technology
Geographic Information Science (GIS) is an emerging field of study centered on the acquisition, management, analysis, and dissemination of information that is spatially-referenced to locations on, above, and below the surface of the earth.
This field is highly trans-disciplinary with substantial and growing importance in a number of traditional academic disciplines and related professions including:
- City and regional planning
- Architecture
- Civil and environmental engineering
- Earth and atmospheric sciences
- Environmental science
- Public policy
- Sustainability studies
The Master of Science in Geographic Information Science and Technology (MS-GIST) degree is a STEM designated program.
A basic understanding of GIS technology is required as a prerequisite of the degree program. This may be achieved through one of four options:
- CP 4510 Geographic Information Systems (3-0-3) or
- CP 6514 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (3-0-3) or
- Equivalent coursework at another institution (as evaluated by the program director)
- One year of equivalent professional experience (as evaluated by the program director)
The required GIS courses (with lecture hours, lab hours, and credit hours) are:
- CP 6066 Visualization for Planners (1)
- CP 6024 Quantitative and Computer Methods (4)
- CP 6521 Advanced GIS (3)
- CP 6531 Introduction to Remote Sensing (3)
- CP 6581 Programming for GIS (3)
- CP 6591 GIS Professionalization (1)
- CP 6592 Capstone Project Research (1)
- CP 6595 GIS Systems Design and Management (3)
- CP 6596 GIS Capstone Project (3)
Beyond the basic core of geospatial technology there exists a wide range of specialized GIS data sources and analytical methods. MS-GIST students are required to take a minimum of two specialized GIS courses that focus on the application of GIS technology to specific areas. These courses must be approved by the MS-GIST program director.
They may include (but are not limited to):
- CP 6570 Socioeconomic GIS (3-0-3)
- CP 6541 Environmental GIS (3-0-3)
- CP 6542 Transport & GIS (3-0-3)
- INFO 530 Geographic Information Systems for Public Health (in the Emory School of Public Health)