Master of Geographic Information Systems and Data Analytics (Credit Hour)

The Master of Geographic Information Systems and Data Analytics (MGISDA) is designed to provide students with the opportunity to develop in-demand skills for application and problem-solving in a variety of organizational settings. The program is a unique interdisciplinary course of study that offers students, who have earned a Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree in any field, the advantage of learning how to synthesize data utilizing a range of industry-relevant tools. Students will be able to visually communicate insights based on data to improve decision making and problem solving. Graduates may pursue emerging career opportunities in private, government, and non-profit sectors.

Program Mission Statement

The Master of Geographic Information Systems and Data Analytics program equips students with the skills to manage and analyze data, and impactfully communicate outcomes visually and orally to discover trends, guide decision-making, and influence business practices. The curriculum provides a foundation of methodologies and analytical tools, as well as practical and applied expertise needed in the real world.

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

• Software Solutions: Apply software to perform data analysis.
• Data Analytics: Analyze various types of data to discover insights and trends, and report information for strategic decision-making.
• Decision-Making: Implement processes to evaluate data to make effective decisions that align with and support business strategy.
• Strategic Communication: Synthesize informational insights and findings to communicate using written, oral, and visual methods.
• Project Management: Create a framework for overseeing a project with a data analytical perspective from initiation to completion.

Requirements for Admission

The prospective graduate student in the MGISDA program must demonstrate his or her readiness to succeed in graduate-level academic coursework by satisfactorily fulfilling one of the following admission options. All graduate admissions options listed below require an earned baccalaureate degree from an institutionally accredited institution.

Admission by GPA

A 2.75 grade point average (GPA) calculated over the most recent 30 graded semester (45 quarter) credits completed in either a bachelor's or post bachelor's program, including credits earned toward a teaching or other credential. All credits used for GPA calculation must be from an institutionally accredited institution. For graduates of institutionally accredited institutions that do not conduct a GPA calculation, an official letter from the University determining grade equivalency will be accepted.

Admission by Prior Graduate Degree

An earned master's degree or higher from an institutionally accredited institution.

Admission by Portfolio

Submission of a portfolio of evidence that shows adequate preparation for graduate studies. The portfolio will contain: writing samples that show graduate level communications and analytical skills; a detailed resume showing professional development and achievements; awards; professional recognition; letters of reference from persons who can attest to the applicant’s ability to do graduate level work; and a letter of explanation detailing the reasons the student believes they are a good candidate for graduate study in the field they wish to pursue. If the portfolio meets substantive approval of the committee, the applicant may be invited for an interview. The decision of the School Graduate Admissions Committee will be final.

Transfer Credit Policy

A maximum of 12 credits may be accepted in transfer to the Master’s in GIS and Data Analytics degree program. The seven-year rule for completion of all transfer credits toward the Master's in GIS and Data Analytics degree applies. (See the Graduate Academic Policies and Procedures section of this catalog.)

Military Transfer Credit Policy

Six-Credit Transfer for Military Schooling.  Eligible Active Duty, Reserve, National Guard, retired, and prior military service members may qualify to transfer six credits into their Master’s in GIS and Data Analytics program of study for military schooling. 

Qualifications and provisions for the six-credit transfer for military schooling follow:

1. The two courses approved for this six-credit transfer to the Master’s in GIS and Data Analytics are OLCU 641, Leadership in Military Communication and OLCU 643, Military Operations Leadership. 
2. Active Duty, active reserve, retired, and prior service military members in the following ranks are eligible: Commissioned Officer (any rank), Non-Commissioned Officer (Sargeant First Class/E7 or above), or Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CW2) or above.
3. Commissioned Officers must be graduates of a commissioning program (OCS or equivalent, ROTC, Military Academy) and an officer basic career course. NCOs must have been promoted to the grade of E7 or above.  Warrant Officers must be CW2 or above and graduates of a Warrant Officer Candidate School and a Warrant Officer career course.

Specific Requirements for the MGISDA Degree