Geographic information systems (GIS) is an emerging field of study centered on the acquisition, management, analysis, and dissemination of information that is spatially-referenced to locations on, above, and below the surface of the earth. Geographical Information Systems Master’s Degrees aim to teach students to use specialized computer systems to get geographic data and integrate it. The data can then be used to create endless “what if” scenarios, providing a powerful tool for applications including: Cartography, Emergency management, Environmental sciences and security, Forest and range management, Medicine and health care, Transportation, and many more. Related professions for GIS graduates include city and regional planning, architecture, civil and environmental engineering, earth and atmospheric sciences, environmental science, demography, logistics, management, public policy and sustainability studies. In addition, some students will place themselves within the newly emerging professions directly related to geospatial technologies.
