Geographic Information Science, BS
Learn how to analyze place and space to uncover patterns that shape our world. Use geographic data and geospatial technology to address real challenges facing communities and the environment.
Quick facts
Locations
Courses
Additional facts
STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
International students (F1) can extend U.S. work experience by 24 months.
Accreditation and professional licensure
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Degree description
In the Bachelor of Science program in geographic information science, you start by learning the basics of mapping, geospatial technology, data analysis, and computer programming. As you move into higher-level courses, you build on these skills to learn how geospatial tools can be used to study and solve real-world environmental and social problems through advanced spatial analysis.
If you want to earn a concurrent or second bachelor's degree in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, you should review the information in the Concurrent Program Options section below and visit The College's website for details and requirements.
Courses
Explore a sample list of courses you may take in this program.
| Sample courses |
|---|
| GIS 205 Geographic Information Science I |
| GIS 211 Geographic Information Science II |
| GIS 311 Geographic Information Science III |
| GIS 270 Statistics for Geography and Planning |
| GIS 470 Advanced Statistics for Geography and Planning |
| GIS 222 Programming Principles in GIS I |
Course checksheet and curriculum archive
The curriculum checksheet displays this program's required courses and other requirements you must complete for graduation.
Current ASU students, see how your courses can apply to another major and find out how to change your major (opens in new window).
Already completed some college courses? Build on your success.
If you earned college credit outside ASU, our transfer tools map out your progress towards a degree and help you plan next steps.
See how your credits may apply (opens in new window)Admission requirements
Here are the admission and application details
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First year (opens in new window) | Transfer (opens in new window) | International (opens in new window) | Readmission (opens in new window)
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should visit the Change of Major form (opens in new window) for information about how to change a major to this program.
Explore expanded study opportunities
This program allows you to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. As a high-achieving student, accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for you to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of your master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.
This program is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:
Approval to pursue the accelerated master's is typically granted during the junior year of your bachelor's degree program. If you are interested, you can learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
When you pursue concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”), you earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with your academic advisor, you can create your own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Students have the opportunity to apply their knowledge of geographic information science in a new and different setting through study abroad. Students can gain a deeper understanding of the complex societal and environmental issues that influence the uses of geographic information science.
Students' resumes are enhanced by the heightened cultural competence and improved communication and critical thinking skills acquired through study abroad.
Paying for college
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students recieve financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Get an estimate
Build the career and future you want
Our graduates are prepared for a variety of career paths, including:
| Career | Growth | Median Salary | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cartographer (Map Maker) | 7.4% | $81,390 | Learn more |
| Data Scientist | 34.6% | $120,230 | Learn more |
| Geodetic Surveyor | 5.8% | $75,440 | Learn more |
| Geographic Information Systems Analyst (GIS Analyst) | -2.1% | $102,040 | Learn more |
| Geographic Information Systems Technician (GIS Technician) | 5.1% | $116,580 | Learn more |
| Geospatial Intelligence Analyst | 2.1% | $122,570 | Learn more |
| Intelligence Officer | 0.2% | $93,790 | Learn more |
| Survey Technician | 5.8% | $54,240 | Learn more |
| Traffic Analyst | 4.0% | $59,090 | Learn more |
| Urban Planner | 3.9% | $89,320 | Learn more |
Example job titles and salaries listed are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.
Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
More about careers
Graduates pursue opportunities in the private and public sectors. Potential careers include:
- business location analyst
- geographic information system technician
- geospatial information scientist or technologist
- remote sensing scientist or technologist
Contact information
Use the contact information below to get in touch if you're a current student or have general questions.
Prospective students should fill out the Request for Information form.
School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning
|
COOR 5681
SGSUP.advising@asu.edu
480-965-7533
Frequently asked questions about degree programs
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
