Master of Geographic Information Science and Technology
December 1, 2025
January 12, 2026
Advance your career with Ohio State’s online Master of Geographic Information Science and Technology
Strengthen your geospatial expertise to solve today and tomorrow’s challenges. The Ohio State University’s 100% online Master of Geographic Information Science and Technology (MGIST) degree equips you with advanced GIS tools, spatial analysis techniques, and applied geoinformatics knowledge. Tailored for your busy schedule, the MGIST program prepares you to lead as a professional in the constantly shifting GIS field.
Whether you want to grow in your current role, transition into advanced positions, or drive innovation in your industry, the MGIST delivers the specialized skills and credentials you need to stay competitive. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports strong job growth and high earning potential for GIS professionals across both public and private industries.
Why choose Ohio State’s MGIST program?
Ohio State is nationally recognized as a leader in geospatial education and research. The university has been designated a Center for Academic Excellence in Geospatial Sciences by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency — a reflection of our pioneering work in GIS research, technology development, and workforce preparation.
When you choose Ohio State, you benefit from:
- A 100% online, flexible format built to fit your schedule
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Instruction from expert faculty with strong ties to industry and government
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A degree from a top-ranked research university known for innovation
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Real-world applications across sectors like infrastructure, energy, agriculture, defense, and health
Ohio State’s MGIST program blends technical depth with applied relevance, empowering to map your career path.
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“As a Lockheed Martin GIS Analyst supporting Naval Special Warfare, I’ve provided geospatial support in various roles over the years—often as a collateral duty—but I was ready to take my knowledge to the next level. The MGIST program at Ohio State stood out with its professionally focused curriculum, flexible online format, and strong reputation. With its cutting-edge coursework in GIS, remote sensing, and geospatial programming, this program has been the perfect opportunity to formalize my skills and grow as a GIS professional—all while continuing to serve in my current role.”
Todd Schmieder MGIST Student -
“I have developed so many skills that I have been able to take into my job. The knowledge base that you gain at Ohio State is second to none. It’s better than I expected and more than I hoped.”
Mike Moore Ohio State Online Grad
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The Master of Geographic Information Science and Technology (MGIST) program is designed to be completed 100% online, with no campus visits required. It is also available in person, with classes at Ohio State’s Columbus campus.
The MGIST program has full-time and part-time pathways to completion. Earn your master’s degree in as few as four semesters, or balance your schedule as a working professional with a lighter course load. Most students take two courses per semester (part-time).
Courses in the MGIST program are 100% online and asynchronous to offer the most flexibility for busy students. Though the courses are structured and assignments have deadlines, you will not be required to be online at specific times.
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Academic Calendar
The Master of Geographic Information Science and Technology program is designed for flexibility, allowing you to progress at a pace that fits your professional and personal schedule. You can choose to enroll part-time or full-time, depending on your needs. Enrollment is offered in both Spring and Autumn semesters, and you can start the program in either term.
Academic Calendar
The Master of Geographic Information Science and Technology program is designed for flexibility, allowing you to progress at a pace that fits your professional and personal schedule. You can choose to enroll part-time or full-time, depending on your needs. Enrollment is offered in both Spring and Autumn semesters, and you can start the program in either term.
Admission Criteria
At Ohio State, we believe your future should be in your hands. That’s why our admission process is transparent and designed to help you take the next step with confidence — on your schedule, in your way.
To apply for the online Master of Geographic Information Science and Technology (MGIST) program, please submit the following materials:
- Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended, including proof of a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
- Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who can speak to your readiness for graduate study.
- A statement of purpose outlining your goals, interests in geospatial science and technology, and how this degree aligns with your career path.
- A current résumé or CV highlighting relevant coursework, internships, professional experience, or technical training that demonstrates your preparedness for the program.
If you have questions about eligibility or how to strengthen your application, our Enrollment Advisors are here to help.
Watch the latest information session
Play the video below to learn more about the MGIST degree and admission criteria from the program director:
The Ohio State University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA).
SARA is a national initiative that increases student access to distance education courses and programs while maintaining compliance with state regulations. Institutions participating in SARA can offer educational opportunities in all 49 SARA member states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico without seeking individual approval in each state.
California is not a SARA member state, however, OSU may offer online courses and programs to students located in California under the California Private Post-Secondary Act of 2009.
The Application Process
Once you understand your program’s admission criteria, please note the application deadline. You’ll need a quiet space and a variety of materials for your application. To learn more, please see our Admissions page for the full process. Ready to Apply? Find your application here.
Career Outlook
A master’s in GIS can set you apart in today’s data-driven world, where advanced geospatial skills are in high demand. The MGIST program prepares you for leadership roles in GIS analysis, spatial data science, remote sensing, and more, opening doors to career growth and higher earning potential. Whether you’re pursuing a promotion, a new path, or deeper specialization, this degree gives you the expertise and credentials to move forward with confidence.
Your training can be applied across diverse sectors such as:
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Urban and regional planning
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Environmental science and natural resources
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Public health and emergency management
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National defense and intelligence
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Utilities, energy, and telecommunications
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Agriculture and land management
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Transportation and logistics
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Real estate and infrastructure development
Ready to explore specific careers? Learn more about GIS-related occupations through the data below.
Top Occupations by Median Income
What They Do
Plan and direct cleanup and redevelopment of contaminated properties for reuse. Does not include properties sufficiently contaminated to qualify as Superfund sites.
Work Activities
Identify environmental contamination sources. Coordinate on-site activities for environmental cleanup or remediation projects to ensure compliance with environmental laws, standards, regulations, or other requirements. Identify and apply for project funding.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $68,860
- Mid Level: $136,550
- Senior Level: $227,590
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
5.7%
Related Careers
- Conservation Scientists
- Environmental Engineers
- Environmental Restoration Planners
- Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health
- Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
Job Sectors
- English Language
- Customer and Personal Service
- Law and Government
- Administration and Management
- Mathematics
What They Do
Research, study, and prepare maps and other spatial data in digital or graphic form for one or more purposes, such as legal, social, political, educational, and design purposes. May work with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). May design and evaluate algorithms, data structures, and user interfaces for GIS and mapping systems. May collect, analyze, and interpret geographic information provided by geodetic surveys, aerial photographs, and satellite data.
Work Activities
Compile data required for map preparation, including aerial photographs, survey notes, records, reports, and original maps. Delineate aerial photographic detail, such as control points, hydrography, topography, and cultural features, using precision stereoplotting apparatus or drafting instruments. Prepare and alter trace maps, charts, tables, detailed drawings, and three-dimensional optical models of terrain using stereoscopic plotting and computer graphics equipment.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $50,500
- Mid Level: $78,380
- Senior Level: $121,440
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
6.3%
Related Careers
- Geodetic Surveyors
- Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians
- Remote Sensing Technicians
- Surveying and Mapping Technicians
- Surveyors
Job Sectors
- Geography
- Computers and Electronics
- English Language
- Design
- Mathematics
What They Do
Develop and implement a set of techniques or analytics applications to transform raw data into meaningful information using data-oriented programming languages and visualization software. Apply data mining, data modeling, natural language processing, and machine learning to extract and analyze information from large structured and unstructured datasets. Visualize, interpret, and report data findings. May create dynamic data reports.
Work Activities
Analyze, manipulate, or process large sets of data using statistical software. Apply feature selection algorithms to models predicting outcomes of interest, such as sales, attrition, and healthcare use. Apply sampling techniques to determine groups to be surveyed or use complete enumeration methods.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $63,650
- Mid Level: $112,590
- Senior Level: $194,410
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
36%
Related Careers
- Bioinformatics Technicians
- Financial Quantitative Analysts
- Operations Research Analysts
- Statistical Assistants
- Statisticians
What They Do
Administer, test, and implement computer databases, applying knowledge of database management systems. Coordinate changes to computer databases. Identify, investigate, and resolve database performance issues, database capacity, and database scalability. May plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard computer databases.
Work Activities
Modify existing databases and database management systems or direct programmers and analysts to make changes. Plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard information in computer files against accidental or unauthorized damage, modification or disclosure. Plan and install upgrades of database management system software to enhance database performance.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $56,820
- Mid Level: $104,620
- Senior Level: $160,890
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
8.2%
Related Careers
- Computer Systems Analysts
- Computer Systems Engineers/Architects
- Database Architects
- Network and Computer Systems Administrators
- Software Developers
Job Sectors
- Computers and Electronics
- English Language
- Customer and Personal Service
- Mathematics
- Telecommunications
What They Do
Plan and direct disaster response or crisis management activities, provide disaster preparedness training, and prepare emergency plans and procedures for natural (e.g., hurricanes, floods, earthquakes), wartime, or technological (e.g., nuclear power plant emergencies or hazardous materials spills) disasters or hostage situations.
Work Activities
Consult with officials of local and area governments, schools, hospitals, and other institutions to determine their needs and capabilities in the event of a natural disaster or other emergency. Develop and maintain liaisons with municipalities, county departments, and similar entities to facilitate plan development, response effort coordination, and exchanges of personnel and equipment. Coordinate disaster response or crisis management activities, such as ordering evacuations, opening public shelters, and implementing special needs plans and programs.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $51,260
- Mid Level: $86,130
- Senior Level: $160,420
Job Outlook
Average
Projected Growth
4%
Related Careers
- Business Continuity Planners
- Health and Safety Engineers, Except Mining Safety Engineers and Inspectors
- Information Security Engineers
- Security Management Specialists
- Security Managers
Job Sectors
- Public Safety and Security
- Administration and Management
- Law and Government
- Communications and Media
- English Language
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate the management or operation of farms, ranches, greenhouses, aquacultural operations, nurseries, timber tracts, or other agricultural establishments. May hire, train, and supervise farm workers or contract for services to carry out the day-to-day activities of the managed operation. May engage in or supervise planting, cultivating, harvesting, and financial and marketing activities.
Work Activities
Collect and record growth, production, and environmental data. Manage nurseries that grow horticultural plants for sale to trade or retail customers, for display or exhibition, or for research. Direct and monitor trapping and spawning of fish, egg incubation, and fry rearing, applying knowledge of management and fish culturing techniques.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $51,700
- Mid Level: $87,980
- Senior Level: $156,530
Job Outlook
Below Average
Projected Growth
-1.6%
Related Careers
- Agricultural Engineers
- Agricultural Technicians
- Buyers and Purchasing Agents, Farm Products
- First-Line Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers
- Soil and Plant Scientists
Job Sectors
- Administration and Management
- Production and Processing
- Biology
- Mathematics
- English Language
What They Do
Measure large areas of the Earth’s surface using satellite observations, global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), light detection and ranging (LIDAR), or related sources.
Work Activities
Analyze control or survey data to ensure adherence to project specifications or land survey standards. Conduct surveys to determine exact positions, measurement of points, elevations, lines, areas, volumes, contours, or other features of land surfaces. Calculate the exact horizontal and vertical position of points on the Earth’s surface.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $43,680
- Mid Level: $72,740
- Senior Level: $116,330
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
5.9%
Related Careers
- Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
- Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians
- Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
- Surveying and Mapping Technicians
- Surveyors
Job Sectors
- Mathematics
- Engineering and Technology
- Geography
- Computers and Electronics
- English Language
What They Do
Assist scientists or related professionals in building, maintaining, modifying, or using geographic information systems (GIS) databases. May also perform some custom application development or provide user support.
Work Activities
Produce data layers, maps, tables, or reports, using spatial analysis procedures or Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, equipment, or systems. Design or prepare graphic representations of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data, using GIS hardware or software applications. Maintain or modify existing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) databases.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $52,650
- Mid Level: $108,970
- Senior Level: $176,800
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
10.8%
Related Careers
- Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
- Data Scientists
- Geographers
- Software Developers
- Surveying and Mapping Technicians
Job Sectors
- Geography
- Computers and Electronics
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Design
What They Do
Apply remote sensing principles and methods to analyze data and solve problems in areas such as natural resource management, urban planning, or homeland security. May develop new sensor systems, analytical techniques, or new applications for existing systems.
Work Activities
Manage or analyze data obtained from remote sensing systems to obtain meaningful results. Analyze data acquired from aircraft, satellites, or ground-based platforms, using statistical analysis software, image analysis software, or Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Integrate other geospatial data sources into projects.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $61,990
- Mid Level: $117,960
- Senior Level: $191,880
Job Outlook
Below Average
Projected Growth
2.3%
Related Careers
- Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians
- Geodetic Surveyors
- Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians
- Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
- Remote Sensing Technicians
Job Sectors
- Geography
- Computers and Electronics
- Mathematics
- Engineering and Technology
- English Language
What They Do
Make exact measurements and determine property boundaries. Provide data relevant to the shape, contour, gravitation, location, elevation, or dimension of land or land features on or near the earth’s surface for engineering, mapmaking, mining, land evaluation, construction, and other purposes.
Work Activities
Direct or conduct surveys to establish legal boundaries for properties, based on legal deeds and titles. Prepare and maintain sketches, maps, reports, and legal descriptions of surveys to describe, certify, and assume liability for work performed. Write descriptions of property boundary surveys for use in deeds, leases, or other legal documents.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $43,680
- Mid Level: $72,740
- Senior Level: $116,330
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
5.9%
Related Careers
- Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
- Civil Engineers
- Construction and Building Inspectors
- Geodetic Surveyors
- Surveying and Mapping Technicians
Job Sectors
- Mathematics
- Engineering and Technology
- Geography
- Computers and Electronics
- Customer and Personal Service
What They Do
Develop comprehensive plans and programs for use of land and physical facilities of jurisdictions, such as towns, cities, counties, and metropolitan areas.
Work Activities
Design, promote, or administer government plans or policies affecting land use, zoning, public utilities, community facilities, housing, or transportation. Advise planning officials on project feasibility, cost-effectiveness, regulatory conformance, or possible alternatives. Create, prepare, or requisition graphic or narrative reports on land use data, including land area maps overlaid with geographic variables, such as population density.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $55,590
- Mid Level: $83,720
- Senior Level: $128,550
Job Outlook
Average
Projected Growth
4.3%
Related Careers
- Brownfield Redevelopment Specialists and Site Managers
- Chief Sustainability Officers
- Project Management Specialists
- Sustainability Specialists
- Transportation Planners
Job Sectors
- Law and Government
- English Language
- Geography
- Transportation
- Communications and Media
What They Do
Design or implement programs and strategies related to water resource issues such as supply, quality, and regulatory compliance issues.
Work Activities
Perform hydrologic, hydraulic, or water quality modeling. Analyze storm water systems to identify opportunities for water resource improvements. Conduct, or oversee the conduct of, investigations on matters such as water storage, wastewater discharge, pollutants, permits, or other compliance and regulatory issues.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $79,830
- Mid Level: $161,180
- Senior Level:
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
7.5%
Related Careers
- Conservation Scientists
- Environmental Engineers
- Environmental Restoration Planners
- Industrial Ecologists
- Water/Wastewater Engineers
Job Sectors
- Engineering and Technology
- Mathematics
- Design
- Physics
- Computers and Electronics
What They Do
Lead or manage the development and evaluation of potential wind energy business opportunities, including environmental studies, permitting, and proposals. May also manage construction of projects.
Work Activities
Coordinate or direct development, energy assessment, engineering, or construction activities to ensure that wind project needs and objectives are met. Manage wind project costs to stay within budget limits. Lead or support negotiations involving tax agreements or abatements, power purchase agreements, land use, or interconnection agreements.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $68,860
- Mid Level: $136,550
- Senior Level: $227,590
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
5.7%
Related Careers
- Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar
- Hydroelectric Production Managers
- Solar Energy Systems Engineers
- Wind Energy Engineers
- Wind Energy Operations Managers
Job Sectors
- Administration and Management
- English Language
- Building and Construction
- Engineering and Technology
- Economics and Accounting
National occupational information in Ohio State Online’s Career Outlook tool is sourced from O*NET Online and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median annual wage displayed to the right of each occupational title above is based on the BLS Employment Projections program. Outlook and percent change indicate projected growth or decline over the next 10 years.
Curriculum
The online MGIST program offers a structured yet adaptable curriculum. You’ll begin with foundational courses in geographic information systems, cartography, and remote sensing, followed by electives in areas such as geospatial data management, programming, and spatial analytics.
Each course is designed to build practical skills and deepen your understanding of geospatial theory and applications. Student support specialists are available to help you customize your plan of study and stay on track for graduation.
Required Core Courses
For a practitioner in this broad field of geographical information science and technology (GIST), what does “being professional” mean? Is doing your job competently enough to be at your job? What constitutes professional competence in this profession? This course will help students address these questions and find their moral compass in a constantly changing profession.
A study of the cartographic techniques of map compilation and design including generalization, symbolization, reproduction, and GIS-based mapping with an emphasis on thematic mapping.
Basic principles of geographic and land information systems and their use in spatial analysis and information management.
Introduction to the fundamental principles, methods, and geographic applications of remote sensing.
Intermediate Elective Courses
Choose three courses.
An intermediate class in spatial data analysis for geography. This course focuses on multivariate model building and evaluation, with a special emphasis on multiple regression models commonly used by geographers: spatial regression, conditional autoregressive, and geographically weighted regression.
Examination of issues, techniques and applications of analytic cartography, interactive maps and scientific visualization for exploring geographic data.
Focuses on designing, implementing, querying and managing spatial databases or persistent data stores where most entities have footprints in geographic space and time. This is critical for designing and implementing GIS for projects and organizations. It is also crucial for moving beyond GIS to the bigger world of geographic information services.
The theory and algorithms underpinning today’s GIS technology and the development of custom GIS applications using the Python programming language.
Examination of major recent developments in the theories, technologies, and/or applications of geographical information science.
Advanced Elective Courses
Choose three courses.
Practice-oriented development, design, implementation and evaluation of spatial databases, with an emphasis on local problems.
Fundamental modeling and simulation techniques in GIS, including cellular automata, diffusion models, and agent-based models, and their applications in social, environmental, and natural resources research.
Introduction to international standards and methods for project management (PM); the application of tools, the basic, ancillary, and “soft” skills for successful PM; public sector challenges; and strengths/limitations in a complex organic environment.
Required Capstone Project
Students showcase the knowledge learned and skills developed in the MGIST program.
Understanding Online Course Types
As you research the right online program for you, you likely will come across the terms “asynchronous” and “synchronous.” Learn what these terms mean and how they’re important to consider when understanding how a program will fit into your life.
Learn More
Program Faculty
The MGIST program is taught by the same accomplished faculty who lead Ohio State’s on-campus geography and geospatial programs — experts known for pioneering research, industry engagement, and a commitment to student success. As an online student, you’ll benefit from direct access to instructors who bring real-world projects and emerging applications into the classroom.
Ohio State’s faculty are active scholars and practitioners shaping the future of GIS. Their work spans areas such as remote sensing, spatial analysis and modeling, urban and regional development, environmental change, human-environment interactions, and transportation systems. Through mentorship that bridges academic research with professional application, MGIST instructors will equip you to think critically, solve problems creatively, and lead with confidence in your geospatial work.
Meet the Program Director: Ningchuan Xiao
Ningchuan Xiao is a professor in the Department of Geography and director of the online Master of Geographic Information Science and Technology (MGIST) program. He also serves as associate director of Ohio State’s Center for Urban and Regional Analysis (CURA), where he contributes to interdisciplinary research on spatial data and urban systems.
Dr. Xiao’s expertise spans machine learning for spatial data, census and mobility analysis, spatial optimization, cartographic visualization, and algorithm development. As program director, he ensures that MGIST students benefit from cutting-edge insights and hands-on relevance in their coursework.
Huyen Le
Assistant Professor
Desheng Liu
Professor
Harvey Miller
Professor, Reusche Chair in Geographic Information Science
Tammy Parece
Senior Lecturer
Chayanika Singh
Senior Lecturer
Sandy Wong
Assistant Professor
Testimonials
Find out how online learning has helped Ohio State students succeed in their personal and professional lives.
“As a Lockheed Martin GIS Analyst supporting Naval Special Warfare, I’ve provided geospatial support in various roles over the years—often as a collateral duty—but I was ready to take my knowledge to the next level. The MGIST program at Ohio State stood out with its professionally focused curriculum, flexible online format, and strong reputation. With its cutting-edge coursework in GIS, remote sensing, and geospatial programming, this program has been the perfect opportunity to formalize my skills and grow as a GIS professional—all while continuing to serve in my current role.”
“I attribute my recent two promotions to educating myself at Ohio State. I really think that getting the coursework done helped me excel at my current position, and it was recognized.”
“While going into the program, I was concerned that by Ohio State being one of the largest institutions, I would feel like one in 1,000 students. Instead, I felt a sense of close-knit, connected support from both classmates and faculty.”
Tuition Fee Overview
Investing in your future with a higher education degree is one of the best investments you can make for your future success. At Ohio State, we know understanding your program’s cost is an important part of your decision-making process. Below are the tuition fees you can expect with your program.
| Tuition Fees | Per Credit Hour (unless otherwise noted) | Part-Time – Estimated Cost Per Semester | Full-Time – Estimated Cost Per Semester |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instructional Fee | $829.75 | $4,978.50 | $6,638.00 |
| General Fee | $32.63 | $195.78 | $261.00 |
| College/Program Learning Technology Fee | $27.00 | $162.00 | $216.00 |
| Distance Learning Fee | $100.00 (per semester) | $100.00 | $100.00 |
| Non-Resident Surcharge (if applicable) | $200.00 (per semester) | $200.00 | $200.00 |
| Course Materials | $100.00 (per semester) | $100.00 | $100.00 |
Tuition fees are subject to change. The table above serves as a guide and not an official bursar’s bill. Full-Time costs are total tuition costs per semester.
Financial Aid Resource
Financial Aid Resource
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