北卡羅拉娜州立大學

The Master of Geospatial Information Science and Technology (MGIST) program equips students with the necessary knowledge and tools to become high-end geospatial professionals using a unique curriculum that leverages NC State’s strengths in computational sciences, geographic information systems (GIS) and natural resources in combination with professional skills development in areas such as project management, group dynamics, and communication.

The MGIST can be completed entirely online, allowing flexibility for both students just entering the workforce and working professionals. The program also admits a small number of on-campus students each year. The schedule, structure, expectations, and rigor of the program are identical, whether you are on-campus or in the online program.

Through a combination of geospatial theory, hands-on applications, and client-based instruction, students graduate from the program with a solid foundation to provide a wide range of geospatial expertise for local, state, national, and international organizations.

Students in the MGIST program also receive the Professional Science Master’s designation on their transcript upon graduation. The PSM program is a nationally recognized program focusing on preparing professionals with both the technical and professional skills necessary to succeed in the workplace. The NC State PSM Program and the National PSM Organization provide valuable resources for students in PSM degree programs, including mentoring, professional development workshops, and other resources.

PLAN OF STUDY

The MGIST curriculum consists of at least 33 credit hours, 21 of which are required core courses. The additional 12 credit hours are electives and allow the student to focus on related areas of interest to supplement their GIS instruction and professional skills development. As part of the program students will complete a Capstone project and develop a Professional Portfolio.

Students are required to take at least one course per semester (Fall and Spring) for the duration of the program (unless financial aid or other considerations require half-time (4.5 hours) or full-time (9 hours) status). Students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater in order to graduate. It typically takes a minimum of 4 semesters (2 academic years) to complete the appropriate sequence of courses. Students have a maximum of 6 years to complete the program.

Courses cover theory, application, and back-end development relevant for today's geospatial professionals using both open source and ESRI tools.