M.P.S. in Geographic Information Systems

Application Fees : US$ 50

Postgraduate Programs:

1. Academic Qualifications: International postgraduate applicants should have completed a bachelor's degree or equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall grade average of 60% or higher. Specific program prerequisites or requirements may vary.
2. English Language Proficiency: The minimum requirements for English language tests are an IELTS score of 6.5 overall or a TOEFL score of 80 (internet-based test).
3. Standardized Tests: The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is commonly used for admission to many programs, with a recommended minimum score of 300. 

Scholarships for International Students at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC):

1. International Student Scholarships: UMBC offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students to support their educational expenses. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or a combination of both. They are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria. International students are encouraged to check the UMBC website and contact the university's financial aid office for information on available scholarships and application processes.

2. UMBC Merit Scholarships: UMBC offers merit-based scholarships to both undergraduate and graduate international students. These scholarships are awarded to students with exceptional academic achievements, leadership qualities, and community involvement. The selection process for these scholarships is competitive, and students are typically considered based on their application materials, including academic transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.

3. Departmental Scholarships: Various departments and academic programs at UMBC may offer scholarships specifically for international students within their respective fields. These scholarships may be discipline-specific and target students who demonstrate exceptional abilities and potential in a particular area of study. International students are advised to inquire with their intended department or program about any available scholarships or funding opportunities.

4. External Scholarships: International students studying at UMBC may also be eligible for external scholarships provided by organizations, foundations, and government agencies. These scholarships can be based on various criteria such as academic excellence, leadership, community service, or specific fields of study. Students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities in their home countries or through international scholarship databases.

5. Fulbright Scholarships: UMBC participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships to international students from over 160 countries. The Fulbright scholarships support graduate study, research, and teaching assistantships at UMBC. Eligibility criteria and application processes for Fulbright scholarships may vary depending on the student's home country. Interested international students can contact the Fulbright Commission or Embassy in their home country for more information.

6. Global Ambassador Scholarships: UMBC's Global Ambassador Scholarships are designed for international students who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding on campus. These scholarships provide financial support and an opportunity for international students to engage in outreach activities, cultural programs, and campus initiatives that promote global perspectives and intercultural exchange.

7. International Education Foundation (IEF) Scholarships: The International Education Foundation offers scholarships to international students studying at UMBC. These scholarships are aimed at supporting students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership skills, and a commitment to community service. The IEF scholarships are awarded based on a competitive application process, and students are required to submit an essay and letters of recommendation.

It is important for international students to carefully review the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and required documents for each scholarship opportunity.

Graduates of the M.P.S. in Geographic Information Systems program at UMBC have a wide range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors:

1. GIS Analyst: Work with organizations to collect, analyze, and visualize spatial data for decision-making and problem-solving.

2. Urban Planner: Use GIS to assist in urban planning and development projects, optimizing land use and infrastructure.

3. Environmental Consultant: Apply GIS to analyze environmental data and assess the impact of human activities on natural ecosystems.

4. Public Health Specialist: Use GIS to track and map disease outbreaks, analyze health trends, and plan healthcare services.

5. Transportation Planner: Utilize GIS to optimize transportation routes, analyze traffic patterns, and plan public transit systems.

6. Geospatial Data Scientist: Use advanced analytics and machine learning with GIS to derive insights from large spatial datasets.

7. GIS Developer: Design and develop custom GIS applications and tools for specific industry needs.

8. Emergency Management Specialist: Apply GIS for disaster response and emergency planning.

The M.P.S. in Geographic Information Systems program at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) offers a comprehensive curriculum that equips students with the skills and knowledge to become GIS professionals in various industries. With a focus on spatial analysis, data management, and cartography, graduates are well-prepared to address real-world challenges and provide valuable insights through GIS technology. The program's interdisciplinary approach and hands-on capstone project provide students with practical experience and the ability to apply GIS in diverse fields. As GIS continues to play a crucial role in decision-making and problem-solving, graduates of this program are well-positioned to pursue rewarding careers in GIS analysis, urban planning, environmental science, public health, and more.