M.S. in Geographic Information Systems Technology

Entry Requirements for International Students

Application Fees : US$ 90

For international students seeking postgraduate programs at the University of Arizona, certain entry requirements must be met. 

1. Academic Requirements: International students applying for postgraduate programs at UA are required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 70% or above. This academic benchmark demonstrates a solid foundation and academic capability, ensuring students are prepared for the rigor of graduate studies.

2. English Language Proficiency: UA accepts several standardized English language tests as evidence of language proficiency, including:

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 7 is required to meet the language requirement.
      
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum score of 80 on the internet-base test (iBT) is necessary to fulfill the English language requirement.
      
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): An overall score of 68 or higher is required.

The University of Arizona offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. Global Wildcat Scholarship: The Global Wildcat Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition waivers for up to four years of study. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community.

2. International Tuition Awards: The International Tuition Awards are merit-based scholarships offered to international undergraduate and graduate students. These awards provide partial tuition waivers and are renewable for multiple years. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and potential to contribute to the university community.

3. International Student Tuition Discount: The University of Arizona offers a tuition discount to international students from select countries. The discount reduces the out-of-state tuition rate to a more affordable level, making it more accessible for international students to pursue their education at the university.

4. Graduate College Fellowships: The Graduate College at the University of Arizona offers several fellowship programs for international graduate students. These fellowships provide financial support for tuition and living expenses. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific fellowship program.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the University of Arizona offer scholarships specifically tailored to international students in their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, research interests, or professional goals. Students can inquire with their specific college or department for available scholarship opportunities.

6. External Scholarships: The University of Arizona encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are numerous scholarships provided by organizations, governments, and foundations that international students can apply for. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external scholarships.

It is important for international students to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary. 

Graduates with an M.S. in Geographic Information Systems Technology from the University of Arizona have excellent career prospects in a wide range of industries:

1. GIS Analyst: Graduates may work as GIS analysts, using geospatial technologies to analyze and visualize data for various projects.

2. GIS Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers as GIS specialists, focusing on specific applications like urban planning, environmental analysis, or transportation.

3. Remote Sensing Analyst: Graduates with expertise in remote sensing can work as remote sensing analysts, interpreting aerial and satellite imagery.

4. GIS Developer: Graduates may work as GIS developers, creating custom GIS applications and tools for data management and analysis.

5. Spatial Data Scientist: Graduates can work as spatial data scientists, applying spatial analysis and data mining techniques to gain insights from geospatial data.

6. Geospatial Consultant: Graduates can work as geospatial consultants, providing expert advice on GIS implementation and geospatial project management.

7. Environmental Planner: Graduates with a focus on environmental applications can work as environmental planners, addressing environmental concerns using GIS.

8. Transportation Planner: Graduates may work in transportation planning, using GIS to analyze transportation networks and optimize routes.

9. GIS Manager: Graduates with experience can advance to GIS management positions, overseeing GIS projects and teams within organizations.

The M.S. in Geographic Information Systems Technology program at the University of Arizona equips students with in-demand skills in geospatial technology and prepares them for rewarding careers in various sectors. As GIS continues to play a vital role in decision-making and problem-solving across industries, graduates from this program are well-positioned to contribute to innovative and sustainable solutions in a data-driven world.