Master of Applied Science in Geospatial Information Technologies (Online)

Map Out a New Path with a Master’s in Geospatial Information Technologies

The Division of Accountancy, CIS, and GIT within the College of Business and Aviation at Delta State offers a Master of Applied Science (M.A.S.) in Geospatial Information Technologies (GIT) with 4 concentrations. This program provides a fully online, 30-hour curriculum designed for both new and experienced GIS professionals. DSU’s MAS-GIT program equips you with the cutting-edge knowledge and skill sets needed to thrive in geospatial technologies. Our curriculum focuses on advanced applications of GIT, integrating spatial analysis, data management, and decision-making in real-world environments. These transferable skills prepare you for success in the workforce and advanced careers across various fields.

This flexible, 16-month program is tailored to help you advance your career without disrupting your daily work life. With access to robust resources both online and on campus, the MAS-GIT program prepares graduates for impactful careers in geospatial technologies, including roles in government, industry, and academia. Delta State also offers an online Bachelor of Applied Science in Geospatial Analysis and Intelligence, which establishes a great foundation for the M.A.S. in Geospatial Information Technologies.

100
%

Online

A Top 5 Nationally Ranked Program

16

Month Program

(With Flexibility)

Why Get an Online Geospatial Information Technologies
Master’s Degree at DSU?

The Geospatial Information Technologies master’s degree online from Delta State University unlocks advanced career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Emphasizing critical spatial analysis and technical expertise, this program prepares professionals to excel in industries that depend on geospatial insights. Designed for students from academic and professional fields—including geography, environmental science, computer science, engineering, business, and urban planning—the Geospatial Information Technologies master’s program equips you to address complex spatial challenges, make informed decisions, and lead impactful projects across a wide range of industries.

  • Applications accepted Fall and Spring
  • Flexible enrollment
  • Online student advisement
  • 30-hour program
  • Complete at your own pace
  • Multiple start times (Fall, Spring, and Summer)

Concentrations in the M.A.S. in
Geospatial Information Technologies

A computer screening showing geographic data analysis in ArcGIS software.

Geospatial Science and Advanced Analysis

The Geospatial Science and Advanced Analysis provides training in spatial data processing and GIS software development using the ArcGIS Suite. Students learn advanced techniques in spatial modeling, geostatistics, and geographic data analysis, gaining skills to solve complex spatial challenges across various industries.

A computer screening showing satellite and aerial imagery that has been processed for interpretation in ArcGIS software.

Remote Sensing

The Remote Sensing concentration provides students with in-depth training in remote sensing techniques, including image processing, interpretation, and application in various fields such as environmental monitoring and urban planning using ENVI as well as other remote sensing programs. This concentration emphasizes using satellite and aerial imagery to extract meaningful environmental and infrastructural insights.

A computer screening showing satellite and aerial imagery with python coding in ArcGIS software.

Advanced Coding

The Advanced Coding concentration provides hands-on training in coding and automation to enhance geospatial analysis capabilities. Students learn to leverage Python, R Studio, and ArcGIS Arcade for advanced data manipulation, spatial analysis, and custom tool development. By mastering these programming languages, students can create automated workflows, perform complex analyses, and develop bespoke GIS solutions.

A computer screening showing a large database of plotted points on a geographic area in ArcGIS software.

Database Management and Big Data

The Database Management and Big Data concentration provides training in spatial database management and big data analytics equips students to handle and analyze large geospatial datasets. You will learn to leverage databases and cloud-based platforms, preparing you for data-intensive roles in the industry.

What Can I Do With a Master’s Degree in Geospatial Information Technologies?

Graduates who’ve earned the M.A.S. degree in Geospatial Information Technologies are well-positioned for roles with higher earning potential and greater responsibility. In a rapidly growing field, professionals with expertise in GIS, remote sensing, and spatial data science are increasingly in demand.

Booming job opportunities exist across differing fields, including environmental management, geospatial intelligence, urban and regional planning, natural resources, ecology, economics, transportation, and various businesses and government agencies. Organizations like NASA, the Environmental Protection Agency, Esri, local and federal government agencies, environmental consulting firms, real estate companies, and logistics companies have a strong demand for GIT professionals. With a degree in Geospatial Information Technologies, you’ll be well-equipped to contribute to critical projects across these sectors and more. Some job opportunities include:

  • GIS manager
  • Geospatial data scientist
  • Environmental consultant
  • Urban and regional planner
  • Surveyor
  • Disaster response specialist
  • Public health GIS specialist
  • Spatial database manager
John Lett, Master of Applied Science in Geospatial Information Technologies graduate

”My experience in this program was wonderful! The classes offered by the program were great! Each course was independently important and vital to providing the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the industry. I enjoyed interactions with faculty and students and discovered possibilities from my classmates throughout the semesters. This degree definitely changed the trajectory of my career moving forward!

John Lett, Class of 2022GIS Manager, Soterra LLC

Graduate Funding Opportunities

Graduate students at Delta State University have a number of funding opportunities available to them, including Graduate Assistantships, fellowships, scholarships, and loans. In addition, we also offer an affordable tuition rate with no additional fees for out-of-state students. We work closely with students to identify and apply for federal and state financial aid programs, as well as student loans and state scholarships. We are committed to providing our students with all of the tools necessary to succeed in the education field, including access to affordable education and financial support.

Explore Funding Opportunities

Program Goals

The purpose of the MAS-GIT program is to provide education and training in the theory and practice of geospatial information technologies. The MAS-GIT program is designed for professionals and aspiring GIS specialists seeking to enhance their technical skill set in preparation for advanced career opportunities, as well as recent graduates aiming to enhance their expertise in geospatial science. We provide the tools and knowledge needed to excel in the geospatial field, helping you leverage spatial data to make impactful decisions and contribute meaningfully to your career path.

Four students and a professor sitting around a large table, looking at maps.

Admission Requirements

Full admission to the MAS-GIT program may be granted to the applicant who:

  1. Meets all requirements for admission to Graduate School.
  2. Has earned a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 2.75 on all undergraduate coursework:
    a.) in GIT or a related discipline (e.g., geography, geosciences, biological sciences, physical sciences, engineering, environmental sciences, earth science, computer information systems, meteorology, ecology, forestry, social sciences, interdisciplinary studies). OR
    b.) in other disciplines and has at least three years of successful relevant GIT experience supported by two letters of recommendation from practitioners in the field.
  3. A student with an earned GPA between 2.5 and 2.75 may be considered for full admission with an academic hold for the first semester or through a certain number of courses.

Application Deadline: Applications are accepted for both Fall and Spring terms before the semester start date. Although applications submitted after the start dates through the end of the registration (typically the seventh day of classes each semester) will be reviewed, we strongly encourage individuals to apply as early as possible in order to allow time for GIT software setup.

Curriculum

Total required credit hours: 30 hours

GIT Pathway 1:
For students with GIT undergraduate degree or equivalent introductory graduate classes, or 5 years professional experience in the field.

Course Number Course Title Credits
GIT Core Courses
REM 616 Applied Remote Sensing 3
REM 617 Image Analysis and Info. Extraction 3
GIS 610 Advanced GIS and Application 3
GIS 631 Digital Photogrammetry 3
GIS 690 GIS Capstone Project 6
Electives in GIT OR in advisor-approved related discipline(s)
GIS 570 Programming GIS 3
GIS 580 Internet GIS and Spatial Database 3
GIS 640 GIT for Disaster and Emergency Management 3
GIS 642 Environmental Applications of GIT 3
TOTAL 30

GIT Pathway 2:
For students who do not have an undergraduate GIT degree or professional experience in the field.

Course Number Course Title Credits
Introductory Courses
GIS 512 Principles of GIS 3
GIS 514 Geostatistics and Spatial Analysis 3
GIT Core Courses
REM 616 Applied Remote Sensing 3
REM 617 Image Analysis and Info. Extraction 3
GIS 610 Advanced GIS and Application 3
GIS 631 Digital Photogrammetry 3
GIS 690 GIS Capstone Project 6
Select 2 Electives in GIT OR in advisor-approved related discipline(s) 6
GIS 570 Programming GIS
GIS 580 Internet GIS and Spatial Database
GIS 640 GIT for Disaster and Emergency Management
GIS 642 Environmental Applications of GIT
TOTAL 30

Degree Requirements

A candidate for the Master of Applied Science in Geospatial Information Technologies is required to meet the following:

  1. Fulfill general requirements for a graduate degree at Delta State University.
  2. Complete a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate credit.
  3. Earn an overall GPA of at least 3.0.
  4. A student who receives a grade of D or F or who acquires two grades of C will be removed from the
    program.

Student Responsibility. The graduate student must accept full responsibility for knowing and following the policies and regulations of DSU graduate programs, as well as requirements specific to the degree program.

For more information on degree requirements, specifics on courses needed to complete the degree, and policies, consult the Graduate Academic Catalog.

Fees

Tuition at Delta State University covers the cost of classes.

Online courses are assessed a $5.00 per credit hour distance learning course fee.

Review the graduate academic catalog for other course related fees.

Program Coordinator

Dr. Yongqin Zhang
P: (662) 846-4251
F: (662) 846-4798
E: yzhang@trhcn.com

Address and Mailing

Division of ACC, CIS, GIT
College of Business and Aviation
DSU Box C-4 Walters 116B
Cleveland, MS 38733

Get Started Now

How to Apply