The future of GEOINT is increasingly computational, analytical, and visual. This mandates good dialogue between developers and users, so that all sources of disparate information are properly integrated and that software actively supports users. Our program at the Spatial Sciences Institute addresses these challenges by producing leaders and managers within teams who can form interagency working groups, and GEOINT users who are adept problem solvers.
COL [R] Steven D. Fleming, Ph.D.
Adjunct Professor of Practice at USC Spatial Sciences Institute
USC’s GIST program is designed well and concentrates on the WHY you do something in GIS— it’s not just about clicking buttons to receive an output you don’t understand. To this day, I still reference my course materials when developing models and using spatial statistics.
Adrianna Valenti, M.S. in GIST, Class of 2015
Former Geospatial Analyst for the Air National Guard
I chose USC’s GIST program because of its flexibility. I was initially interested in the Geospatial Intelligence Certificate, but I really liked that I could easily move into the master’s program by applying credit from the certificate. [My USC education] has expanded my knowledge of the many different ways geospatial information can be used, and it gave me hands-on experience using geospatial data for issues I care about.
Devlin Howieson, M.S. in GIST
Former U.S. Marine Corps Police Sergeant
Geospatial intelligence has become integral to a variety of operations in local and federal government, the U.S. military and intelligence. Experts have found valuable applications for geographic information science in areas like disaster recovery, terrain analysis and installation management. As a result, the U.S. Department of Defense, the State Department, nonprofit humanitarian organizations and private businesses are all interested in professionals who can gather spatial data and solve complex problems.
Whether you’re an active military service member, a veteran or currently employed in intelligence, aerospace, defense manufacturing or government, the University of Southern California’s Dornsife Spatial Sciences Institute can help you cultivate the skills you need to excel in these roles. USC’s geospatial intelligence graduate programs equip students with a best-in-class education that helps them maximize the value of geographic information and push their careers forward.
We strive to make education accessible to all, regardless of schedule, responsibilities or place of residence. Students pursuing the M.S. in Human Security and Geospatial Intelligence or Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Intelligence can select from a residential or online modality. Online students can stream lectures live or watch a recording later.
Master’s in Human Security and Geospatial Intelligence
(Available online and residential)
Accredited by the US Geospatial Intelligence Foundation, the M.S. in Human Security and Geospatial Intelligence program offers a comprehensive education in applying geographic data to global challenges and geospatial intelligence tradecraft. Learning from a faculty that features some of the field’s foremost experts, students in GIS courses develop the knowledge and skills to lead GEOINT projects, strategically leverage spatial information and manage remote sensing data. They gain hands-on experience by participating in a fieldwork excursion to Catalina Island and completing a capstone project that requires solving a real-world problem with GEOINT methods and tools.
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Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Intelligence
(Available online and residential)
Students who are interested in gaining GIS training on an accelerated track or would like a stepping stone to a master’s program may choose to complete one of our GIS certificate programs. Accredited by the U.S. Geospatial Intelligence Foundation, the curriculum for the Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Intelligence provides a grounding in the techniques that professionals need to capture data, evaluate the quality of information and present intelligence reports.
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Programs in GEOINT:
Master’s in Human Security & Geospatial Intelligence
(Available online and residential)
This geospatial intelligence degree is designed for professionals who are pursuing careers in using spatial problem-solving to address dangers, from natural disasters to terrorist attacks. Students draw on remote sensing data to manage readiness and response, developing the skills and hands-on experience to succeed in senior-level roles in the GEOINT and human security fields.
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Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Intelligence
(Available online and residential)
The Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Intelligence provides a foundation in setting strategy and making decisions based in spatial data.
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Other GIST Programs:
Master’s in Geodesign, Environment and Health
(Available residential)
The M.S. in Geodesign, Environment and Health is a multidisciplinary geodesign degree that gives students the tools to address urgent and long-term challenges in natural and built environments. Students gain broad geodesign knowledge, as well as specialized skills in areas such as spatial science, architecture, public policy and engineering. The result is geodesign expertise infused with field-specific knowledge that graduates can apply to their future careers.
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Master’s in Geographic Information Science and Technology
(Available online and residential)
The M.S. in GIST is designed for professionals who apply spatial data to challenges in a wide range of fields, such as urban planning, public safety and supply chain logistics. Students explore a broad range of geospatial tools and techniques and customize their education with a choice of four specialized tracks.
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Master’s in Global Security Studies
(Available residential)
The M.A. in Global Security Studies provides students to address policy issues to address complex challenges such as environmental vulnerability, public health crises, food and resource scarcity, regional conflict, cyber attacks and other natural and human-caused instability issues.
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Master’s in Spatial Data Science
(Available online and residential)
The M.S. in Spatial Data Science is designed for professionals who are interested in connecting data science and spatial science. In this spatial data science master’s program, students will learn how to apply data science techniques to spatial data as a means of solving spatial problems in a variety of areas, including urban planning, business and agricultural management.
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Master’s in Spatial Economics and Data Analysis
(Available online and residential)
The M.S. in Spatial Economics and Data Analysis is designed for professionals who are interested in the intersection of applied economics, data science and spatial science. Graduates of the program will develop an in-depth understanding of the fundamentals of spatial economics and the ability to apply spatial analysis and spatial modeling approaches to business opportunities and policy solutions addressing urban problems.
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Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science and Technology
(Available online and residential)
Professionals who want to enhance their skills in spatial problem-solving or begin on their career path in geospatial problem-solving can earn this GIS certificate.
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Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Leadership
(Available online and residential)
The geospatial leadership graduate certificate is designed for experienced GIS professionals who are currently or aspire to leading other professionals in geospatial work.
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Graduate Certificate in Remote Sensing for Earth Observation
(Available online and residential)
The Graduate Certificate in Remote Sensing for Earth Observation explores the principles of spatial data acquisition through traditional collection systems and emerging innovative sources. This program can benefit both experienced GIS professionals and newcomers to the field, particularly those who have military background and interests in areas such as border conflicts, humanitarian relief and refugee crisis management.
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The University of Southern California (USC) is one of the world’s leading private research universities. Established in 1880, it is also one of the oldest. With a strong tradition of integrating liberal arts and sciences with professional education, USC fosters a vibrant culture of public service and encourages students to cross academic and geographic boundaries in their pursuit of knowledge.
- Ranked among the Top 30 national universities by U.S. News & World Report 2024
- Ranked among the Top 15 best colleges for veterans by U.S. News & World Report 2024
USC is a founding member of the UNIGIS International Association, which recognizes international standards in geographic information science distance learning programs.
Geospatial and GIS graduate program students at USC are key members of the university’s community of scholars, contributing diverse viewpoints and fresh insights that are poised to make their mark on the theories, systems, inventions, public policy and creative work of the 21st century.
USC Dornsife Spatial Sciences Institute
The ability to understand and make decisions with spatial information is what the USC Dornsife Spatial Sciences Institute is all about. We partner with researchers, businesses, nonprofits, NGOs and other entities to analyze, model and visualize location-based data. As a leading GIS research and academic institution, we have the unique ability to attract talented researchers and educators from a wide range of disciplines and promote collaboration across countless areas of expertise and industry domains.
The Spatial Sciences Institute has received recognition from numerous organizations within the GIS industry, including:
- The Spatial Sciences Institute was the first educational institution member of the Urban and Regional Information Systems Association, which supports GIS professionals within their organizations.
- The Spatial Sciences Institute is a member of the U.S. Geospatial Intelligence Foundation, which has accredited the USC Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Intelligence.
- The Spatial Sciences Institute is an Esri Education Development Center, which encourages students to pursue projects and careers focused on GIS technology development and customization.
Learn more about our GIS graduate programs
Ranked among the Top 30 National Universities and among the Top 15 Best Universities for Veterans (U.S. News & World Report, 2024)
Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Member of the UNIGIS International Association
The M.S. in Human Security and Geospatial Intelligence and Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Intelligence are accredited by the United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF)
The Office for the Director of National Intelligence has designated the University of Southern California as an Intelligence Community Center for Academic Excellence (IC CAE).