Geographic Information Systems
Develop the technical and strategic skills needed to help solve real-world problems related to geographic information systems (GIS). Whether analyzing environmental damage or detecting crime patterns, use GIS to inform decision-making. From the latest trends in GIS such as using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for GIS purposes, to more foundational spatial data processing, you’ll be prepared to plan, implement, and execute GIS projects.
At a Glance
Free Application
University College is committed to educational access, and given the difficult circumstances currently impacting millions of people, we are waiving application fees.
Skills You'll Learn
Analyze geographic data and solve spatial problems using appropriate GIS tools
Plan, implement, and execute a GIS project from start to finish
Leverage Python programming in a GIS environment
Curriculum
Master of Science in Information and Communications Technology with a concentration in Geographic Information Systems requires completion of 48 credit hours (12 courses).
All students are required to complete a zero-credit Student Success Course.
Electives may be chosen from among all courses in the Information and Communications Technology program. You may also select courses from other University College graduate programs with approval from the academic director.
Your academic advisor will help you select electives that align with your career and personal goals, and your advisor will obtain any necessary approvals from the academic director.
Sample Schedule
Plan out your schedule and determine your preferred timeline for completing your master's degree—finish in as few as 18 months or take up to five years.
| Year 1 | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classes | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Year 2 | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classes | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Year 1 | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classes | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 |
| Year 2 | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classes | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 |
Take a Course Before You Apply
We know how important it is to get started when you're ready and that's why you can enroll in a course before you officially apply.
Career Outcomes
Predicted outcomes for graduates of Geographic Information Systems
Employment for GIS professionals is expected to grow 7% through 2026, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The increasing popularity of products such as Google Maps, the inte¬gration of location-based services on apps, and the prominence of maps in social media has brought GIS to the forefront of technology.
According to Boundless, the GIS market is projected to growth over $17 billion through 2023. Expect to see continued growth of mobile GIS applications, as GIS mobile application use is up 36% from last year.
Job Titles
Geospatial Information Scientists and Technologists Salary: National Average
Get Ahead with Career Services
One-on-one career coaching and mock interviews
Job database dedicated to DU students and alumni
Résumé and cover letter guidance
Hear from Our Students
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"That master's degree had been on my bucket list for more than 20 years and I just started thinking now’s the time, I'm not going to procrastinate anymore!" —Carolyn Hinkley, graduate.
Flexible Online Classes
We understand the demands of balancing work, friends and family, and school can be challenging. That's why at University College, you can complete your program entirely online. Our online learning platform makes it easy to work anywhere at any time.
Advisory Board
Our programs are developed and updated with the input of advisory boards composed of industry leaders and employers. This ensures that you'll learn what employers are looking for, and gain the most current information with a view to future industry trends, connecting you to future success.
Featured Instructors
Accreditation & Associations
University College programs maintain the highest level of accreditation offered by The Higher Learning Commission, one of the regional accrediting bodies recognized by the federal government. The University of Denver and all of its academic programs are regionally accredited by this commission, and regional accreditation is the highest standard for universities in the United States.
The Colorado Technology Association represents technology leaders, professionals, companies, IT departments, government and legislative leaders, and industry advisors. CTA provides members with community, insight, connections and advocacy. Our industry development work spans public policy to education to leadership.
As a Registered Education Provider, University College has designed its Project Management courses to parallel the Project Management Institute's (PMI®) "Project Management Body of Knowledge" (PMBOK® Guide).
The National Security Agency (NSA) CAE Program Office manages the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity programs. The University of Denver is designated a National Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CDE) through 2020.