Master of Business Administration - Accounting
The MBA program at the University of the Potomac typically consists of 12 courses, tota...
M.S. in Geospatial Information Technology
Washington, D.C., Virginia
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Program Overview
The MSGIT program at the University of the Potomac is a 36-credit-hour, STEM-based curriculum, typically designed for completion in approximately two years for full-time students, with accelerated options available. It is structured around core courses that build a strong foundation in geospatial concepts and applications, complemented by specialized modules that allow students to delve into niche areas within the field. The program is offered in both on-campus and online formats, providing significant flexibility for students, including working professionals and international learners.
STEM-designated: Yes, the Master of Science in Geospatial Information Technology (MSGIT) program at the University of the Potomac is STEM-designated. This is a crucial benefit, particularly for international students, as it makes them eligible for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension in the United States. This extension allows for an additional 24 months of work authorization beyond the initial 12-month OPT period, providing international graduates with up to three years of valuable professional experience in the U.S.
Curriculum: The 36-credit MSGIT curriculum covers a comprehensive range of topics essential for geospatial professionals. Core courses include: Concepts of Geospatial Thinking and Digital Cartography, Data Integration, Warehousing, Provenance, and Analysis, Data Analytics, Geospatial Intelligence, Geospatial Analysis and Modeling, Remote Sensing, Geospatial Technology in Raster Analytics, Geospatial Web Design, 3-D Visualization and Mobile Programming, Geospatial Business Intelligence, GIS Project Management, Smart Cities Concepts: Geo Analysis, Modeling, and Implementation, and a Capstone: GIS Applications in IT, Business, Management, Health & Government operations. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience with industry-standard software like ArcGIS, including its various extensions, and programming languages like Python and VBA for customization.
Research Focus: The MSGIT program at the University of the Potomac has a strong applied research and practical application focus. It aims to provide students with the most up-to-date education in geospatial technology, theory, and applications, enabling them to "comprehend, practice, and mimic reality utilizing Geospatial Intelligence." The curriculum requires students to acquire hands-on experience in completing projects, conducting geospatial analysis and modeling, and understanding the application of GeoDesign and GeoModeling approaches to develop GeoApps for various industry demands. The Capstone course is a significant research and application component, where students integrate GIS, statistical, and business models to build decision/planning support systems.
Industry Engagement: The University of the Potomac's MSGIT program is highly engaged with industry demands, aiming to produce graduates who can provide "ground-breaking customer intelligence solutions." The curriculum is tailored to address the constant demand for workforce with knowledge in geospatial technology and intelligence, from IT/Business Analysts and Managers to Chief Executives. The program provides practical experience with top-of-the-line GIS software like ArcGIS and focuses on real-life applications such as Smart Cities design and Geospatial Mobile Apps. The university's presence in Washington D.C., a hub for government agencies and businesses that extensively use geospatial intelligence, further strengthens its industry connections and provides valuable career prospects. The university was even chosen as one of six US universities to present at the 2020 Geospatial Federal User Conference.
Global Perspective: The University of the Potomac fosters a global perspective within its MSGIT program through its diverse student body and the universal applicability of geospatial technology. The program aims to prepare individuals to "understand, practice and model the Reality utilizing Geospatial Intelligence," a skill set that transcends national borders. Geospatial intelligence is critical for addressing global challenges such as disaster management, urban planning, environmental monitoring, and business analytics worldwide. The university's flexible online learning options and its commitment to attracting international students also contribute to a rich, multicultural learning environment, preparing graduates to contribute to geospatial solutions on an international scale.
Location
Washington, D.C., Virginia
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 22250
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their bachelor's degree.
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.
- PTE: Overall score of 59 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
The University of the Potomac is dedicated to making education affordable and accessible for international students by offering a variety of scholarship opportunities. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need, helping reduce the overall cost of education for deserving students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students demonstrating strong academic performance may qualify for merit-based scholarships. These awards reward high GPA, outstanding achievements, and exceptional contributions in previous educational settings. Merit scholarships can significantly lower tuition fees and encourage students to maintain high academic standards throughout their studies.
Need-Based Scholarships: The university also offers need-based scholarships designed to assist international students facing financial challenges. Applicants are encouraged to submit detailed financial information during the admissions process to be considered for these scholarships, which aim to bridge the gap between the cost of education and the student’s financial resources.
Special Program Scholarships: Certain academic programs at the University of the Potomac provide dedicated scholarships for international students, especially in fields such as business administration, information technology, and cybersecurity. These program-specific awards support students pursuing careers in high-demand industries.
A Master of Science (M.S.) in Geospatial Information Technology (MSGIT) from the University of the Potomac is a STEM-designated program designed to equip graduates with advanced skills in Geospatial Intelligence.
GIS Analyst/Specialist: This is a core role where graduates collect, manage, analyze, and visualize spatial data to create maps, reports, and models. They identify trends, patterns, and relationships to support decision-making in various fields such as urban planning, environmental management, public health, and business.
Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) Analyst: With a direct focus on Geospatial Intelligence, graduates work to integrate and analyze geospatial data from various sources (satellite imagery, aerial photography, open-source data) to provide actionable intelligence for defense, national security, and disaster management.
Remote Sensing Specialist/Analyst: Specializing in acquiring and interpreting data from remote sensing technologies (satellites, drones, lidar), these professionals analyze imagery to monitor environmental changes, assess land use, and contribute to fields like agriculture, forestry, and urban development.
Geospatial Data Scientist: Combining strong analytical skills with geospatial expertise, these professionals work with large-scale spatial datasets, applying statistical methods, machine learning, and AI to extract complex patterns and build predictive models related to location.
GIS Developer/Programmer: Graduates skilled in programming languages like Python and experienced with GIS software customization can develop, implement, and maintain geospatial applications, web maps, and tools. They automate complex spatial processes and build location-based services.
Urban and Regional Planner (with GIS focus): Leveraging their knowledge of smart cities concepts and geospatial analysis, graduates contribute to the development of sustainable communities. They use GIS to analyze population growth, infrastructure needs, and environmental impacts to inform planning decisions.
GIS Project Manager: With a strong foundation in GIS applications and project management, graduates can lead and oversee geospatial projects, managing teams, budgets, and timelines to ensure successful delivery of GIS solutions for clients or internal stakeholders.
Cartographer/Photogrammetrist: These professionals specialize in creating and updating maps and spatial data. Photogrammetrists use aerial and drone imagery to create accurate 2D and 3D models and maps, crucial for various industries from construction to environmental monitoring.
Geospatial Business Intelligence Analyst: Focusing on the business applications of GIS, graduates help companies leverage location data for strategic insights, such as site selection, market analysis, logistics optimization, and customer segmentation to gain a competitive advantage.
Environmental/Conservation GIS Specialist: Applying geospatial tools to environmental challenges, these professionals analyze ecological data, monitor natural resources, track pollution, and support conservation efforts, working for environmental agencies, non-profits, or consulting firms.
