The USC Dornsife Spatial Sciences Institute offers a comprehensive selection of online graduate GIS programs, giving students the flexibility to advance their knowledge and skills in the way that’s best suited for their careers and previous experience. USC faculty review all programs regularly and update the curriculum to align with the needs of the research community and industry.
The extensive selection of electives and close professional relationships students can develop with faculty and peers ensure that they have the support and knowledge they need to reach their goals, whether they’re just entering a GIS career or are an experienced GIS professional.
The following online GIS graduate programs are currently available:
Online Master’s Degrees
Master’s in Geographic Information Science and Technology
The online M.S. in GIST is designed for professionals interested in using spatial data to solve complex challenges in fields ranging from public safety to supply chain logistics and more. The core courses provide foundational, broadly applicable knowledge in spatial sciences as well as hands-on experience with GIS software and data. Electives allow students to acquire other advanced skills, such as GIS application development, geospatial technology project management and spatial modeling.
Master’s in Human Security and Geospatial Intelligence
The online M.S. in Human Security and Geospatial Intelligence is designed for professionals with an interest in leveraging spatial and temporal data to prepare for and respond to incidents such as natural disasters, terrorist attacks and other threats that impact human security. Graduates will acquire the leadership skills and technical acumen they need to spearhead new geospatial intelligence initiatives in government, military and non-government organizations.
Online Graduate Certificates
Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science and Technology
The online Graduate Certificate in GIST is ideal for professionals who want to enhance their skillset with specific knowledge or for individuals who are just starting to consider GIS careers. The coursework provides foundational knowledge, including an understanding of geospatial databases and spatial data acquisition techniques, while elective choice enables students to gain some experience with advanced GIS concepts and tools.
Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Intelligence
The online Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Intelligence provides a foundation for leveraging spatial data in conjunction with social, political and environmental information to make decisions. It is designed for individuals who want to use spatial data to create actionable insight in disaster planning and incident response.
Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Leadership
The online Graduate Certificate in geospatial leadership is available for professionals in the geospatial industry to hone their technical skills while also learning leadership strategies for the GIS field. The coursework focuses on strategies for encouraging innovation and shaping the direction of GIS initiatives and organizations.
Graduate Certificate in Remote Sensing for Earth Observation
The online Graduate Certificate in Remote Sensing for Earth Observation explores the principles of spatial data acquisition through a variety of systems and sources. This program can benefit both experienced GIS professionals and newcomers to the field with coursework in gathering information through traditional systems, such as imaging radar and satellites, and from emerging innovative sources, such as mobile devices and text-scraping.
Need help deciding which program is right for you? We can help. Contact an enrollment advisor for more information.
Request Brochure
Fill out the information below to learn more about the University of Southern California’s online GIS Graduate Programs and download a free brochure. If you have any additional questions, please call 877-650-9054 to speak to an enrollment advisor.
Catalina Island Excursion
Students in the M.S. in GIST, M.S. in HSGI and Graduate Certificate in GIST programs will participate in a week-long fieldwork excursion...
Join us for the Online Graduate GIS Programs Information Session