Geographic Information Science Administration
Prepare for an advanced career analyzing geographic data.
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Geographic Information Science Administration, M.S. Overview
Join the growing field of geographic information science by developing skills in geospatial science and business management. UWF’s online M.S. in GIS Administration incorporates core coursework in both GIS and business — plus a capstone course focused on GIS leadership. Upon graduation, you will be a well-rounded GIS professional ready to pursue career advancement in virtually any industry.
Led by experienced educators dedicated to your success, you’ll explore the latest technologies in geographic information science. All of our faculty members hold advanced degrees, have extensive GIS experience, and some even continue to work in the field while teaching the online GIS master’s program.
“Because of the rigorous GIS curriculum that I completed at UWF, I have been applauded for being qualified and competent in completing high-level assignments and offering geospatial solutions.”
– Daniela McDougall, Graduate, online M.S. in GIS Administration
Students pursuing our online GIS administration degree benefit from our program’s competitive tuition and convenience. Our online GIS program offers remote desktop technology, allowing you to access state-of-the-art GIS software at any time and from any computer through a pre-configured virtual machine. You’ll have access to the latest versions of Esri ArcGIS Pro, PostgreSQL/PostGIS, Leaflet and Erdas Imagine. Collaboration with fellow students and faculty in the online program provides opportunities to gain in-demand skills required for successful remote work positions.
The online geographic information science administration program covers topics such as:
- Advanced business management skills in human resources, economics, finance and organizational behavior
- Programming tools used to develop software applications for spatial analysis and automation tasks
- GIS theories and practices used to visualize, measure, transform and optimize spatial data
- The fundamental theory of cartography and map production and distribution, graphic design and how to communicate the data through various mediums
- Database design and how to extract and use spatial data for GIS case studies
- Web-based geographic information systems and their methods and processes, along with design considerations for web-based GIS in different browsers
- Developing, implementing and managing GIS applications
Our online GIS degree program culminates with an experience-focused capstone course. You will work with a real client to research an issue and use GIS data to develop a solution. Then, you will create a video project to showcase your work to your professors, peers, and potential employers. Capstone topics for previous GIS degree online students include:
- Rocky Mountain National Park Geohazard Coding
- Web Mapping Water Quality
- Human Impact Assessment on Northwest Florida Seagrass Ecosystems Using Remotely Sensed Data
- Improving Searchability of Intranet with GIS
In addition, our program is affiliated with Professional Science Master’s. Created in partnership with the industry, PSM guarantees that students in the online GIS master’s degree gain real-world experiences and skills.
GIS Certificate Options
We also offer online undergraduate and graduate certificate programs that can be completed in 12 months. A total of seven courses, including a required internship, have been carefully combined to reflect real-world workforce requirements. With this knowledge, expect to better understand what’s happening behind the scenes in the software and become more efficient at work.
The GIS graduate certificate program is a pathway to the online GIS master’s program because it fulfills the foundation requirements plus 6 hours of GIS core courses.
Candidates for This Program Include:
- Students currently employed in the geoscience field looking for advancement
- Those seeking a career in GIS in many industries such as government, public health, political science, forensic science, agriculture and more
- Students with a bachelor’s degree, basic computer skills and a desire to learn GIS
Learning Outcomes
- Produce and utilize useful and current information from spatial data
- Demonstrate advanced skills in cartography, geospatial scripting, spatial databases and web-based mapping
- Effectively communicate ideas and make management decisions
- Become experienced in spatial statistics, data science, database management, applied research, modeling and geo-visualization
- Work in collaboration with local partners, faculty or your current employer to develop, execute and implement a real-world GIS application
Courses and Requirements
UWF’s online GIS degree includes a total of 36 credit hours. You’ll explore 12 credit hours of business management skills and 24 credit hours of advanced geographic information science topics.
- All GIS courses implement the latest version software including Esri ArcGIS Pro, and Erdas Imagine.
- Access to high-speed internet is required for optimal experience connecting to our GIS Virtual Apps and Desktops.
- You must possess basic computer skills for GIS to find success in our courses.
If you do not have a GIS background, an additional 15 credit hours of foundational proficiencies courses are required and can be taken alongside the business classes. You will study cartography, photo interpretation, remote sensing and geographic information systems.
These foundation courses are an additional requirement for students that do not have a GIS background. Many students enter the program with no prior GIS course work. However, foundation-level proficiency in the following GIS courses is required to be successful in this program. Foundational course requirements are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
- GIS 5007 & 5007L - Computer Cartography and Computer Cartography Lab
4 Credit Hours
Computer Cartography and Computer Cartography Lab
The course focuses on the fundamentals of cartography, spatial statistics, thematic mapping techniques and web-based mapping. Students will gain an interdisciplinary understanding of cartographic representation and visualization with hands on applications using cutting-edge GIS and graphic design software to create purpose tailored maps. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to interpret and appropriately communicate spatial data; developed a personalized cartographic style; created a professional GIS portfolio for current/potential employers; and most importantly developed a keen appreciation for maps and spatial awareness.
- GIS 5027 & 5027L - Aerial Photography and Remote Sensing and Aerial Photography and Remote Sensing Lab
4 Credit Hours
Aerial Photography and Remote Sensing and Aerial Photography and Remote Sensing Lab
This course is designed to familiarize students with the fundamentals of remote sensing and photo interpretation through hands-on techniques with aerial photographs and satellite imagery based on real-world applications. Both active and passive sensors will be discussed in lecture. The course is broken up into two distinct sections. The first five weeks are spent interpreting digital aerial photographs; the rest of the semester is spent examining and manipulating digital data from satellites and other remote sensors. The lecture will focus on the history, technology, concepts, processes and applications of aerial photography and remote sensing. Please consult with the course instructor for any questions regarding these prerequisite concepts. Introduction to GIS, GIS4043 or GIS5050 with lab is recommended prerequisite. Offered concurrently with GIS 4035, graduate students will be assigned additional work.
- GIS 5050 & 5050L - Geographic Information Systems and Geographic Information Systems Lab
4 Credit Hours
Geographic Information Systems and Geographic Information Systems Lab
This course teaches fundamental concepts and techniques of geographic information systems (GIS). It covers basic concepts such as map projections, spatial data models, relational databases, spatial analysis and visualization of spatially distributed data and phenomena. The applications of GIS are presented. Future issues for GIS and state-of-the-art technology are also discussed. Materials and supply fee will be assessed. Cross listed with GIS 4043; Graduate students will be assigned additional work.
- GIS 5100 - Applications in Geographic Information Systems
3 Credit Hours
Applications in Geographic Information Systems
The Applications in GIS course strives to provide a balance between the "how-to" of using ArcGIS 10 and the "why" of GIS by explaining the roles GIS technology plays in analyzing local and regional (even global) problems. The course builds upon topics covered in Introduction to GIS (GIS 4043). Major components of the course include computer representation of geographic information, the construction of GIS databases, spatial analysis with GIS, application areas of GIS and social and management issues that concern GIS. A generic process for applying GIS techniques in problem solving is introduced, and several case studies of GIS applications in environmental and social domains will be analyzed. Material and supply fee will be assessed. Credit cannot be received for both GIS 5100 and GEO 5157. Basic competency with ArcGIS software is required. Prior coursework including Introduction to GIS (GIS 4043 or GIS 5050 with lab) is recommended.
- GIS 5007 & 5007L - Computer Cartography and Computer Cartography Lab
- GEB 5816 - MBA Foundations: Principles of Human Resources Management
1.5 Credit Hours
MBA Foundations: Principles of Human Resources Management
A course in the Accelerated MBA Foundations Series in which students are introduced to the basic functions of human resource management, including employment law, planning, job analysis, recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management, compensation and benefits, employee and labor relations, safety and health and international human resource management.
- GEB 5871 - MBA Foundations: Managerial Economics
1.5 Credit Hours
MBA Foundations: Managerial Economics
A course in the Accelerated MBA Foundations Series in which students will gain an understanding of basic economics. Special emphasis will be placed on the determinants of supply and demand and the desirable properties of a competitive equilibrium; followed by the undesirable properties of markets with a monopoly and with externalities. Permission is required.
- GEB 5872 - MBA Foundations: Financial Management I
1.5 Credit Hours
MBA Foundations: Financial Management I
A course in the Accelerated MBA Foundations Series in which students are introduced to the accounting process of analyzing, measuring, and reporting business activity. Explores the precise language, assumptions, concepts, principles, and logic patterns inherent in the analysis and measurement of business activity. Describes the form and content of major financial statements. Briefly introduces the recording and reporting process used by accounting systems and examines basic financial reporting issues.
- GEB 5875 - MBA Foundations: Management Skills and Applications*
1.5 Credit Hours
MBA Foundations: Management Skills and Applications*
Covers the historical evolution of management, organizational design, motivation, team building, leadership, change management, culture, strategic planning, and critical implementation/control elements critical to successful management and strategy. Social responsibility, ethics, globalization, and futures are also stressed.
- MAN 6156 - Management and Organizational Behavior
3 Credit Hours
Management and Organizational Behavior
Appreciation and understanding of the field of organizational behavior and its application in managing human and other resources. Emphasizes understanding individual behavior (motivation, self-awareness, leadership, etc.) and group dynamics (decision-making, group development and work) plus conflict, climate, learning styles, power, stress, process/content, human rights and quality. Utilizes experiential learning methodologies and other appropriate designs. May not be taken for credit by students having credit for INP 6397. Permission is required.
- GEB 5870 - MBA Foundations: e-Business Systems
1.5 Credit Hours
MBA Foundations: e-Business Systems
A course in the Accelerated MBA Foundations Series in which students will gain an understanding of the principles of e-business systems planning, development, and implementation. The overall objective is to provide a common foundation composed of the fundamental concepts required for the use and application of systems and technologies found in the e-business environment. Permission is required.
- GEB 5876 - MBA Foundations: Marketing Management
1.5 Credit Hours
MBA Foundations: Marketing Management
A course in the Accelerated MBA Foundations Series in which students are introduced to foundational concepts of marketing management processes. Provides students with intensive exposure to the basic philosophy, concepts and knowledge common to effective marketing management.
- GEB 5816 - MBA Foundations: Principles of Human Resources Management
- GIS 5103 - GIS Programming
3 Credit Hours
GIS Programming
In today's technology-driven world, we are fortunate to have access to many tools with which to analyze and explore digital spatial data. During this course, students will learn to use programming techniques to create applications that perform fundamental spatial analysis and automation tasks, such as geoprocessing, editing, database management, projecting data and map creation. The course will focus primarily on using the Python programming language within the context of Esri's desktop GIS environment. Offered as a stand-alone course online and concurrently with GIS 4102 where graduate students will be assigned additional work. Permission is required. Credit may not be received in both GIS 5103 and GIS 4102. Basic competency with ArcGIS software is required. Completion of GIS4043 with lab or GIS5050 with lab is recommended.
- GIS 5935 - Special Topics in Geographic Science
3 Credit Hours
Special Topics in Geographic Science
Geographic information systems (GIS) today are being used by everyone from scientists to everyday citizens to solve geographic problems ranging from the very simple to the extremely complex. As the use of GIS and the availability of digital data increase, GIS users need to be aware of how the data being put into a GIS affects the reliability of the information products being produced from a GIS. Producing new and useful information from spatial data requires a thorough understanding of their limitations and the methods used to process them. Students explore GIS theory and practice related to the visualization, measurement, transformation and optimization of spatial data. An underlying theme that uncertainty is an inherent characteristic of spatial data is thoroughly examine and students learn how to identify it, measure it and live with it. By the end of this course, students will have gained extensive knowledge about various GIS analysis techniques, methods, outputs and uncertainties as they relate to specific problems experienced by many cities (large and small) around the world. Combining lessons learned in previous GIS courses with more in-depth techniques presented in this course gives students the opportunity to piece together previous knowledge and gain a greater sense of understanding for what it means to conduct GI science. Permission is required. Material and supply fee will be assessed. Competency with GIS topics and ArcGIS software is required. Prior coursework including GIS4043 or GIS5050, GIS 5100 and GIS 5103 are recommended.
- GIS 6005 - Communicating GIS
3 Credit Hours
Communicating GIS
This course begins with the basic theory of graphic design, cartography and map production and distribution. Students then learn to communicate specific types of spatial and analytical information through maps, written and oral explanations, graphs, tables, charts and interactive web mapping applications. Course includes lecture, hands-on exercises, written reports and a final presentation. Restricted to students majoring in M.S. GIS Administration program, it is best taken during one of the first three semesters. Basic competency in GIS concepts and software is expected.
- GIS 6105 - Spatial Data Management
3 Credit Hours
Spatial Data Management
This course begins with the basic theory of database design. It then proceeds on to incorporate spatial data and its unique data management requirements. Students then learn how to extract, transform and load spatial data and its associated attribute data using specific GIS case study workflows. Course includes lecture, hands-on exercises, written reports and a final project with a presentation requirement. Prior coursework in Introduction to GIS and GIS Programming is recommended.
- GIS 6110 - Advanced Topics in Geographic Information Science
3 Credit Hours
Advanced Topics in Geographic Information Science
This class brings together a number of open-source GIS tools in order to educate students on the methods and processes behind web-based geographic information systems (web GIS). Specifically, we will review techniques with spatial databases, web mapping application programming interfaces (APIs), geospatial scripting and theories of map interaction within the context of web GIS. In order to achieve this near-complete picture of how web GIS works, use a pattern of software architecture known as model-view-controller or MVC. Finally, we will cover design considerations for web GIS within browsers on mobile devices. Material and supply fee will be assessed. Credit cannot be received for both GIS 6110 and GEO 6159. Competency with the principles of GIS and ArcGIS software is required. Prior upper-level GIS coursework (GIS 5100, GIS 5935, GIS 5103) is recommended.
- GIS 6555 - Geographic Information Systems Management
3 Credit Hours
Geographic Information Systems Management
This course provides practical information on the development, implementation and operation of GIS programs and projects intended for both seasoned and aspiring GIS managers. The course focuses on planning and implementing GIS solutions for government agencies and contractors. The course combines lecture, discussion and group exercises. An end of term project involves writing in response to real or hypothetical solicitations for a project that targets GIS tool development, implementation and/or training to support management activities in local, regional, state, national or international contexts. Restricted to students in M.S. GIS Administration program and is best completed towards the last half of the program and before enrolling in GIS 6955 GIS Capstone. Prerequisite: GIS 5935.
- GIS 6955 - GIS Capstone
6 Credit Hours
GIS Capstone
A final capstone experience for students who are nearing completion of their M.S. GIS Administration program. Prior to enrollment, students must submit a capstone intention form to program faculty outlining their project idea, relevant research, potential client(s) and review committee members. Upon faculty approval, the student may enroll in capstone and begin writing a draft project proposal, including a literature review for committee review. By the end of the first semester, students are expected to have completed a final proposal and gain approval from their review committee before enrolling in the second capstone course. The second semester of capstone is dedicated to carrying out the project and presenting findings and/or products in the form of (at least) a paper and presentation. Students work in collaboration with local partners, faculty or the student's current employer to develop a real-world GIS application. Working independently, students: communicate with project partners to identify project goals; acquire and prepare spatial data for GIS data analysis; communicate with project partners to assess progress; manage spatial data and produce necessary outputs for presentation as part of a final report. This final project should affirm the student's ability to think critically and creatively, to solve practical problems, to make reasoned and ethical decisions and to communicate effectively. The capstone course serves as documentation of the student's personal mastery of professional competencies. It is designed to be an integrative experience for M.S. GIS Administration students. Course is restricted to students in their last two semesters of the M.S. GIS Administration program. Prerequisite: GIS 6005 AND GIS 6110 AND GIS 6555.
- GIS 5103 - GIS Programming
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission into UWF’s online GIS program, you must have earned an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution, with a minimum institutional GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale on the last 60 hours of coursework in the baccalaureate degree.
How to Apply
To apply for admission to the GIS degree online program, you first need to submit an application for graduate admission (plus a $30 application fee) and be accepted for admission into University of West Florida. In addition, you must:
- Submit official transcripts confirming a bachelor’s degree from an institution whose accrediting agency is included on the list of UWF approved accrediting agencies
- Submit a letter of intent describing your work experience and reasons for pursuing the degree, including how the degree relates to your career goals
- Submit contact information (email addresses and phone numbers) for two professional references
- Submit a resume
Relevant GIS background to waive the additional 15 credit hours of foundational proficiencies is determined by previous coursework from an accredited institution (GIS, GEO prefix and GIS course titles). Coursework must have been completed within the last six years. Admitted students are asked to provide course syllabi and descriptions for courses being considered. If coursework is relevant but falls outside of the timeframe, we offer a proficiency exam with a required grade of B or higher to waive the foundational proficiencies. Professional experience alone cannot be used to waive foundation courses. All advanced and core coursework assumes students are familiar with ArcGIS Pro. GIS5050 Lab is a one-credit-hour course that may be beneficial to take if a refresher or introduction to ArcGIS Pro is needed.
Have questions about this program or the admissions process? Connect with one of our knowledgeable enrollment counselors.
Costs & Financial Aid
| Component | Cost | Total* |
|---|---|---|
| Full Program Tuition | $425 per credit hour | $15,300.00 |
| Full Program Tuition with Foundational Proficiencies* | $425 per credit hour – program $630 per credit hour – foundation courses | $24,750.00 |
| Tuition with Maximum Transfer Credits (Up to 6) | $425 per credit hour | $12,750.00 |
*If necessary for degree completion, foundational proficiency courses are $630 per credit hour.
Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Fees are charged per semester unless otherwise noted. This program takes up to 11 semesters to complete, depending on transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of time to completion, call an enrollment advisor at 844.372.9390 or request information.
Refer to UWF Cost of Attendance Estimates and Financial Literacy for more information on UWF costs and financial aid.
*Tuition and fees are subject to change.
Military Students
UWF proudly serves active duty U.S. military members and veterans. As UWF has been a participant of the Yellow Ribbon Program since 2011, you could be eligible to receive free tuition with your military benefits.
See How We Can Serve YouFinancial Aid
Funding your college education should not empty your wallet. We offer various financial aid options for our online students, including loans, scholarships and grants for degree-seeking students.
Learn More About Financial AidCareer Outcomes
With our online GIS degree, you can pursue growing careers in nearly any field that aligns with your interests. According to Esri, a leading GIS software company, “careers in GIS are in demand more than ever” as employers across industries seek those with data visualization and spatial analysis skills. GIS professionals can apply their skills to roles in:
- App development
- Business
- Computer programming
- Conservation
- Cybersecurity
- Emergency services
- Engineering
- Forestry
- Government
- Public health
- Public safety
- Technology
UWF’s online GIS master’s degree gives you the business and leadership skills you need to advance your GIS career or transition into geospatial science. Depending on how much experience you have, you could qualify for a leadership position as a GIS Manager, Director, Coordinator, Analyst or Specialist. Graduates from UWF’s GIS degree online program have worked at notable employers in the Florida area, such as:
- The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP)
- Avineon
- Axim Geospatial
- England-Thims & Miller, Inc. (ETM)
“I was relatively new to GIS when I began the program, and it has benefited my career tremendously by giving me experience in aspects of GIS that are normally encountered in higher-level GIS positions.”
– Ashlee Malone, Graduate, online M.S. in GIS Administration
* Salary information from PayScale.
Geographic Information Systems Managers
Managing employees who work on GIS programs, a geographic information systems manager is responsible for organizing and managing system components, developing applications and training staff members. The average salary for GIS managers is $80,493.
Geographic Information Systems Coordinator
Geographic information systems coordinators use GIS data to help their organization achieve its goals. The nature of their work can take on almost any form depending on which industry they’re in. The average yearly salary for GIS coordinators is $70,884. Skills in database management and data management are correlated to pay that is above average.
Application Developers
Application developers create, manage and maintain software applications using knowledge of various programming tools. In GIS, application developer develop interactive web maps to visually depict data. The average annual wage for application developers is $76,868.