M.S. in Business Analytics & Project Management
UConn's M.S. in Business Analytics & Project Management program is designed for...
B.A. or B.S. in Geographic Information Science
Storrs
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The B.A. and B.S. programs in Geographic Information Science (GIS) at UConn are designed for students interested in spatial data analysis, mapping technologies, and geographic problem-solving. GIS is a rapidly growing field that combines computer science, geography, and environmental science to analyze and visualize spatial information. The program prepares students for careers in urban planning, environmental management, geospatial intelligence, and other data-driven industries. The B.S. program emphasizes technical and scientific approaches, while the B.A. option provides a broader liberal arts foundation with GIS applications.
STEM Designated: The B.S. in Geographic Information Science at UConn is STEM-designated, making it an attractive option for students seeking careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. The STEM designation enhances job opportunities and provides international students with extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) benefits, allowing them to gain practical experience in the U.S. workforce after graduation. This designation highlights the program’s emphasis on data science, geospatial technology, and computational methods, making graduates highly competitive in the job market.
Curriculum: The GIS curriculum at UConn integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, ensuring that students develop strong analytical and technical skills. The coursework includes subjects such as spatial analysis, remote sensing, cartography, and geospatial programming. Students gain proficiency in industry-standard software such as ArcGIS, QGIS, and Python for geospatial analysis. The program also includes hands-on lab work, field studies, and project-based learning experiences that allow students to apply GIS concepts to real-world challenges. Elective courses enable students to specialize in areas such as environmental GIS, urban planning, and geospatial data science.
Research Focus: UConn is recognized for its strong research programs in Geographic Information Science, offering students opportunities to engage in cutting-edge projects related to climate change, land-use planning, disaster management, and geospatial modeling. The university collaborates with federal agencies, research institutions, and private companies to address critical global challenges using GIS technology. Students have access to UConn’s Center for Land Use Education and Research (CLEAR) and the Connecticut State Data Center, where they can participate in applied research and gain hands-on experience in geospatial data analysis.
Industry Engagement: The university maintains strong partnerships with industry leaders, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, providing students with valuable internship and job placement opportunities. UConn’s GIS graduates are in high demand across multiple industries, including environmental consulting, transportation planning, real estate, and public health. The university’s career services assist students in securing internships and employment with organizations such as NASA, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and tech firms specializing in geospatial analytics.
Global Perspective: UConn emphasizes a global approach to GIS education, preparing students to address international spatial challenges such as climate change, urbanization, and sustainable development. The university offers study abroad programs, international research collaborations, and opportunities to work on global GIS projects. Students can participate in exchange programs with partner institutions worldwide, gaining cross-cultural experience and broadening their understanding of geographic information systems in different contexts.
Location
Storrs
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 39678
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
The University of Connecticut (UConn) offers a range of merit-based scholarships to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize exceptional academic achievements and leadership qualities.
Global Excellence Award: This scholarship is awarded to international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance and leadership both in and outside the classroom.
Global Distinction Award: Similar to the Global Excellence Award, this scholarship recognizes international students with exceptional academic records and leadership abilities.
Global Leader Award: This award honors international students who have shown exceptional academic achievement and leadership qualities.
Graduates with a B.A. or B.S. in Geographic Information Science from UConn are highly sought after in multiple industries due to their expertise in geospatial technology, data analysis, and problem-solving. GIS professionals play a critical role in a range of sectors, including environmental management, urban planning, transportation, public health, and disaster response.
Geospatial Data Analyst: GIS graduates can work as geospatial data analysts, where they collect, interpret, and analyze geographic data to inform decision-making in fields like urban planning, natural resource management, and public policy.
Urban and Regional Planner: In this role, GIS professionals design, implement, and analyze spatial data related to land use, zoning, infrastructure development, and environmental conservation. Urban and regional planners use GIS to create sustainable development plans and improve community living.
Environmental Consultant: Environmental consultants with GIS expertise help organizations assess the environmental impact of projects, conduct land-use assessments, and analyze climate-related risks. This role is crucial for businesses and governments working on conservation efforts, land reclamation, or environmental compliance.
Cartographer and Map Designer: Graduates can work as cartographers, specializing in creating digital and physical maps used in navigation, urban planning, disaster management, and scientific research. Their work is vital for translating complex data into clear visual representations.
Geospatial Intelligence Specialist: This role involves using GIS to gather, analyze, and interpret spatial data for military, government, and security applications. Geospatial intelligence specialists contribute to national security, defense, and intelligence efforts by providing critical insights into terrain, infrastructure, and geopolitical factors.
Remote Sensing Specialist: Remote sensing specialists use satellite and aerial data to monitor changes in the environment, agriculture, and urban areas. They work in fields like climate change analysis, environmental monitoring, and disaster recovery, where remote sensing provides valuable spatial data.
Transportation Analyst: GIS graduates can apply their knowledge to optimize transportation systems, improve traffic flow, and develop logistics solutions. In this role, professionals analyze geographic data to create more efficient routes for both goods and people.
Public Health Analyst: GIS is increasingly used in public health to track disease outbreaks, identify patterns in health data, and optimize resource distribution. Public health analysts use GIS to inform healthcare policy, emergency response, and public health initiatives.
Natural Resource Manager: GIS professionals in this field work to manage and protect natural resources such as forests, water bodies, and wildlife. They use GIS to monitor land use, track biodiversity, and plan conservation efforts.
GIS Software Developer: Graduates with strong programming skills can pursue careers as GIS software developers, creating applications, tools, and systems that enhance geospatial data collection and analysis. This role is ideal for students who combine a passion for GIS with computer science.
Disaster Response and Recovery Specialist: GIS is critical in emergency management, helping agencies plan for and respond to natural disasters. GIS specialists map affected areas, track damage, and coordinate recovery efforts, playing a key role in minimizing the impact of disasters.
Academic and Research Roles: For those interested in furthering their studies, graduates can pursue advanced degrees and academic careers in GIS, geography, or related fields. Researchers in GIS contribute to advancing technology, exploring new applications, and solving global challenges related to sustainability and urban development.
