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What is Cartography and GIS?

The Geographic Information Science & Cartography degree is a field of study focused on the manipulation of data structures and computational techniques to accurately capture, process, and analyze geographic information.  Cartographers and photogrammetrists use geography derived information to update and create maps & charts used for education, research, regional planning, emergency response, and other uses.

Graphic information science, GIS or GIScience, attempts to redefine geography and its use by blending cartography with cognitive science.  In other words, GIS tools are used to ascertain its impact on society and individuals along with the influence of people on GIS.  Graphic information science pulls more on specialized research fields such as computer science, psychology, mathematics, and statistics while supporting political science and anthropology.

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Cartography and GIS Degree

The University of Pennsylvania takes pride in providing innovative, intellectually rigorous knowledge to equip students who become leaders in the future in their specialization. It has a student-faculty ratio of 6 to 1 to ensure that students get the attention they deserve.  UPenn has a Cartographic Modeling Lab which specializes in using GIS hardware and software to help create spatial databases and statistical analyses and maps. GIS is useful in visualizing geographic relationships affecting health outcomes, disease transmission and health risks of the public. There are workshops related to GIS and mapping that UPenn regularly hosts.

Acceptance Rate

7.66

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

The John Hopkins University, a top research university, is a leader in its top research centers and programs. Its founders envision JHU to become a premiere research university through collaboration and an integrative academic system. GIS is a cutting-edge and groundbreaking invention which advances human beings to another level.

At John Hopkins University, a Master of Science degree in GIS is offered and thoroughly learned by its faculty and students. It takes 12-24 months to complete which students can enroll in the GIS program in either the Fall, Spring, and Summer. This innovative course allows learners to explore the world of spatial intelligence through JHU’s state-of-the-art facility.

Acceptance Rate

11.17

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Washington University in St. Louis celebrates individuality. Every student has the motivation to learn, explore and achieve unprecedented achievements.   WashU in St. Louis has obtained a license to use the ESRI ArcGIS software suite throughout the campus, enabling students, faculty and staff to conduct teaching and research. Its geographic information system certificate has a total of 18 units, and the courses include basic and advanced skills and concepts, GIS creation and design, cartographic output, use of GIS software and spatial analysis, etc. This certificate is most suitable for professionals seeking to improve their skills and students seeking complementary academic goals.

Acceptance Rate

13.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

The University of Southern California is a pioneer in research, an international center for technology and arts, and Los Angeles principal office. It is a well-known melting pot in California for educating people of all backgrounds.   USC provides Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIST) in on-site and online settings. It is a graduate program with a world-class faculty and multidisciplinary framework to help students understand and apply spatial information. There are two master’s programs and four GIS certificates online offered by the USC.

Acceptance Rate

11.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Tufts University is a medium-sized private school in Massachusetts. It combines research with liberal arts, and encourages students and faculty to pursue excellence and curiosity.

Tufts University’s Geographic Information System is a specialized course with tools which can be applied and used in a depth of research and professional areas. Provide students with a flexible schedule; classes are open in the evenings, weekends and online. Anyone who completes the requirements and passes the course requirements assessment will receive a GIS certificate.

Acceptance Rate

14.95

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus belongs to the Top 10 research state university offering on-campus, online and distance learning. It receives a research budget of more than $1 billion every year. 

The GaTech University offers a master’s study in Geographic Information Science & Technology (GIST) which is designed on acquisition, analysis, management and information dissemination that is spatially-centered to areas on, below and above the earth surfaces. The postgraduate courses have a total of 34 hours, which can be completed in one academic year. Part-time students can complete the course in two or three academic years and one summer vacation.

Acceptance Rate

20.58

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The United States Geospatial-Intelligence Foundation (USGIF) accredited the Geospatial Information Science Major course of the United States Military Academy. The military school is a proven center of excellence in geospatial science. 

Students from the U.S. Military Academy received extensive hands-on training on the use of digital technology in the field and its Geographical Science Laboratory (GSL). They will learn how to use GPS, use sophisticated software and hardware to scan and analyze satellite images, build databases and create maps. Cadets with outstanding academic performance have the opportunity to become part of the Geospatial Honor Program.

Acceptance Rate

12.03

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

The College of William and Mary is a private research institution with a long-standing reputation in liberal arts and sciences. The College of William and Mary cultivates a culture of thinkers and a vision of bringing together intellectuals and compassionate individuals.

At William and Mary’s Arts and Sciences department, they offer a complex and advanced course in Geospatial Analysis. This course is open to all graduates and undergraduates in all fields of study. At the end of the geospatial course, students will receive a certification program.

Acceptance Rate

37.68

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

The University of California-Santa Barbara is proud of its prestigious teachers, magnificent scenery and excellent social atmosphere. It provides cutting-edge research and creative opportunities.  Its Geographic Information Science is an emphasis of its Bachelor of Arts in Geography program, offering courses such as soil formation, hydrology, and meteorology. Some of its "technical" courses include spatial analysis, cartography, computational concepts, photo interpretation and remote sensing. The plan aims to conduct a more in-depth study of geographic science with the background of spatial information technology.

Acceptance Rate

29.56

Student to Faculty Ratio

22:1

It is known as a leader of cross-disciplinary programs and well-regarded research university. The University of Southern California – Davis has a portfolio of extraordinary education which houses 102 undergraduate majors and 101 graduate programs.

In the 2021 school year, students can study four different courses under the "Geographic Information System'': Introduction to GIS, Introduction to Geographic Information Systems, Using GIS and Tools for Disaster Response and Recovery, and Planning and Sustainability Online Information Session. The University of Southern California-Davis (USC-Davis) provides individuals and beginners with advanced GIS courses. It can ensure hands-on practice and training of ArcGIS software package and Python programming software.

Acceptance Rate

38.87

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

The University of Georgia is one of the oldest state universities in the country. It is a first-rate institution of higher education funded by the US government. 

It offers certificate, minor, and major programs in Geographic Information Science. At the University of Georgia, learners need to receive extensive training, which is essential for joining the rapidly growing geographic information science major. Its faculty is among the world’s best and the courses included are comprehensive such as geographic data collection and analysis, remote sensing, community studies, theories and methods, human-environment, to mention a few.

Acceptance Rate

45.3

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

The University of Maryland is a public land-grant institution. It is a flagship university known for its superior contribution in research and groundbreaking discoveries.  UM—College Park offers a Master of Science in Geospatial Information Sciences. It prides itself with its up-to-date program and technology to cater the learner’s needs. It tackles and seeks to cover different topics on Geospatial analysis including statistics, analysis, remote, and sensing using the university’s technology and research centers.

Acceptance Rate

44.18

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Florida State University is a prestigious institution offering student-centered education which inspires socially conscious, intellectually curious and academically motivated learners. It is classified as “Very High Research Activity” or “R1: Doctoral Universities” by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching 2018. 

Its Applied MS GIScience is fast-track program that can be completed in a year. It prepares graduates by honing their skills in tracking mobile vehicles and people and in identifying changes in the environment using sophisticated geospatial software. The courses in its master’s study include internships.

Acceptance Rate

35.97

Student to Faculty Ratio

21:1

The Ohio State University main campus is committed to providing a sustainable future through education, research, business practices, and partnerships. Its resources and facilities are dedicated to address immediate issues on the environment that impact the earth and mankind. 

The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency Ohio State University nominated Ohio University as one of the Centers for Academic Excellence in Geospatial Sciences. It is also the primary institution for the development of geospatial technology in the United States and a leader in cartography, geographic information technology and spatial analysis. For students interested in GIS, Ohio State University offers two options for the Bachelor of Science degree, such as geography, which specializes in spatial analysis and geographic information science.

Acceptance Rate

53.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

The University of Connecticut is a leader in state-funded research. It cultivates a culture of critical thinking among its students and faculty. 

Students who choose to tread the path in GIScience should expect to develop their competence in spatial analysis and thinking. They would be able to proficiently collect in-depth knowledge involving geospatial technology. The University of Connecticut offers a Bachelor in Arts or in Science and both prepare students in private or public career opportunities.

Acceptance Rate

49.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

George Washington University is a provider of one-of-a-kind education. Students enroll to grow, to seek for expert answers, to engage and to learn. They demand change and become the change. 

Its certificate program in Geographical Information Systems equips students with a strong foundation in Geospatial theory and techniques, along with practical skills for the application of such techniques in addressing real life problems. Students are given ample exposure to open-source programs and industry-standard software. With the rapid growth of demand for GIS, George Washington University offers extraordinary general courses.

Acceptance Rate

40.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

The State University of New York at Binghamton is a prestigious university that even provides interdisciplinary education for overseas students. It is considered one of the best performers in a research program with an impressive international perspective. 

In 2001, SUNY in Binghamton created a GIS and remote sensing core facility to address the growing demand for geospatial technical support and training in different disciplines. It is committed to providing special training and well-educated interactive programs through various short courses and one-on-one interactions, especially for those seeking funding research. Its facilities are designed to train and support users in various geospatial technical methods, evaluate data sets and help them with research or design.

Acceptance Rate

40.53

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

The University of Pittsburgh is considered as one of the nation’s greatest universities. It is a national institution dedicated to unlimited research and a respected member of the Association of American Universities.

The University of Pittsburgh offers a course in professional MS program in GIS and Remote Sensing with a carefully designed curriculum to achieve real-world application excellence. It seeks to introduce graduates of a GIS program with extensive training in geospatial knowledge and tools. Overall, this is a multidisciplinary course.

Acceptance Rate

56.65

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

It is a world-class research institution in Illinois and is known for its outstanding courses at all levels. What makes the University of Illinois at Urbana – Champaign stands out is, it has made pioneering contributions in all aspects of the American higher education system.

The Department Geographic Information Science of University of Illinois at Urbana is a leader in geospatial science.  The department's course is designed to examine and inspect the nature of geographic data. Emphasis on comprehensive learning and cultivating critical awareness of geospatial technology.

Acceptance Rate

59.03

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

The University of Minnesota Twin Cities encourages students to continuously seek innovation to reduce the quality of human life. Students are prepared to appropriately address the changing needs of our society. 

Geographic Information Science at Twin Cities University of Minnesota is a graduate program designed to enable professionals to solve complex problems involving the environment, society, and economy through unprecedented technological solutions. In terms of geographic information science, the university maintains an excellent reputation in the international community. Throughout the United States, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities is one of the pioneers in providing GIS programs for professionals.

Acceptance Rate

56.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Clark University ensures that students are welcomed as soon as they step onto the campus. It is committed to providing a community of intellectually invested, enthusiastic and creative students. 

The university offers a master’s study in Geographic Information Science (MSGIS) which is designed to equip students in becoming professionals in their chosen career. Its plans include advanced computer graphics and various techniques in spatial analysis to solve key issues related to environmental science and policy and socio-economic development. Its main focus is concentrated on applying geo-spatial technologies to issues of environment and sustainable development which includes, among others, climate change adaptation, global change & earth system monitoring, land use/ land cover change, food security & humanitarian assistance, and conservation GIS.

Acceptance Rate

52.78

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

California State University Long Beach is the most valuable school in the United States, with affordable tuition, good income-generating potential, and high social mobility. The university ensures that every student has a place to excel in the school. 

Its certificate in GIS programs affords students specialized training both in theoretical and applied geospatial techniques, including remote sensing, geographic information science, and cartography. The course aims to allow students to experience quantitative spatial analysis using GIS. This certificate will complement the student's regular degree program.

Acceptance Rate

39.27

Student to Faculty Ratio

23:1

The Texas A&M University College Station was founded in 1876 and has since been recognized as the first state higher education institution. This is a research university that sends agile leaders to the world. 

The GIST Department of Texas A&M University is engaged in research in the fields of geographic information science and technology and remote sensing. Its program includes developing GIS-based modeling as well as spatial-analysis approaches and remote-sensing image classification algorithms. The university is a leader in research and development.

Acceptance Rate

57.79

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

Established in 1818, Saint Louis University is the most prestigious Catholic Universities known for its faith and compassionate health care, first-class academics and research, and strong commitment to service. 

It is regarded as one of the top research universities. It not only focuses on the academic aspects of students, but also on morality and spirituality. The Geographic Information Systems program of the university is an interdisciplinary program which focuses on research addressing environmental, social and economic issues. It combines geospatial theory and practical training in GIS, remote sensing and global positioning software to help students prepare to become experts in their chosen field. Students in this course use innovative technologies and software programs.  

Acceptance Rate

58.28

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The State University of New York at Cortland is proactive in its research program. Most of its programs have internships and cooperatives. There are also some student teaching internships, environmental field trips and study abroad programs. 

These courses equip students with professional skills. With the help of Cortland SUNY's GIS, learners can visualize, analyze, question and interpret data to understand patterns, relationships, and trends. With the rapid growth of people's awareness and interest in the strategic and economic value of GIS, the university believes that it is important to choose all GIS courses to benefit organizations in almost all industries.  

Acceptance Rate

46.04

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Top Cartography Degrees

Earning a degree in cartography or geographic information science (GIS) can span an array of programs. First, students have the opportunity to enroll in three primary types of learning modalities. The types of cartography degrees include online learning or distance learning, classroom-based programs, or hybrid degree programs. Second, a student can enroll in a number of degree-based program that include certificates through graduate degrees. An overview of these program is below to help you decipher which degree path is best for you. Geography degrees awarded include campus programs and online cartography degree pathways.

Cartographer Certificate Programs

GIS and cartographer certificate programs are designed to be highly focused programs with a shorter duration that a degree program. A cartographers certification can take six months to two-years to complete depending on the design of the course and emphasis of the program. A GIS or cartographers certificate can be obtained from number of accredited colleges and universities found below to help get your foot in the door or bolster your existing resume.

Cartography Associate Degrees

Online associate degrees in GIS and cartography are typically 2-year programs. These degrees are often conferred as an Associate of Science (AS) in this area of study. Students will spend time taking liberal arts classes and core classes in most schools. By blending general education classes like psychology, geography, sociology, English, and economics with core GIS classes helps to provide students with a well-rounded educational experience. Many schools today offer classes online or in class for students working to earn their associate degree.

Cartographer Bachelor Degrees

Bachelor's degrees are the most popular degree earned in the United States. In fact, a recent study revealed an all-time high of nearly 34% of Americans earning a bachelors degree. The online bachelor degrees are designed to be a four-year degree program at most schools fusing liberal arts classes with core classes. The core classes for cartographers will help students understand the world in which we live by improving analytical skills and keenly interpreting real issues in the physical and cultural environment.

You may have the opportunity to earn a GIS degree as a generalist or within an area of specialization. General degrees may be conferred as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) depending on the program emphasis and curricular design. Specialized fields of study can include:

  • Water Resources
  • Cartography
  • Geographic Information Science
  • Urban Planning
  • Geography Analysis
  • Regional Planning
  • Physical Geography
  • Environmental and Resource Studies
  • Location Analysis
  • Environmental Interpretation

Cartography Master Degrees

Masters degrees in GIS are conferred as either a Master of Science (MS), Master of Applied Geographic degree (MAGeo), or a Master of Arts (MA) as a function of the curricular design. A cartographers masters degree program is a 2-3 year program at most universities depending on the course load and time taken to complete the thesis project. A master degree in cartography is the highest degree type offered at most schools. While the master degree highest the rare doctor degree highest offered by select universities.

Areas of specialization in GIS at the masters degree level include the following possible academic tracks: land management, land use planning, location analysis, environmental management, transportation systems, planning, remote sensing, cartography, and geographic information science.

While most colleges and universities require a thesis project as part of a masters degree, some schools provide an alternative. In most cases, this alternative comes in the form of additional approved core classes as an offset to the thesis. If this alternative resonates with you, make sure your school of choice provides this option.

College Requirements for GIS Cartographers

In terms of educational requirements, Geography Information Science & Cartography degree holders will have typically studied the following courses while in college:

Schools Other Students Requested Information From:

Employment & Specializations in GIS

For students that earn a college degree in Geographic Information Science & Cartography, there are several fields of specialization that one can pursue. The options range from teachers, geographers, surveyors, landscape architects, urban planners, conservationists, civil engineers, and mapping technicians to name a few possible career tracks.

Job Growth & Career Outlook in Cartography

The job growth in the greater Geographic Information Science & Cartography domain are well above average.  For example, the rate of job growth for cartographers is expected to rise an astounding 29% through 2024 and urban planners a 6% growth rate is expected during the same period.  Given the broad nature of the Geographic Information Science & Cartography degree, compensation after graduation can vary greatly from career field to career field given prior experience and geographic location.  Related fields include teaching, curriculum design, research, surveying, urban planning, and mapping technician.

Where Do Cartographers Work?

Students earning a degree in GIS will be equipped to launch a career in a variety of fields of study that include private industry, government agencies, business, planning, mapping, foreign service, marketing research, industrial location, resource evaluation, transportation, environmental analysis, and many more industries.

Additional Information for GIS Students

For high school students, active cartographers, and GIS professionals looking for additional resources, we have found two outstanding sources for additional information. The Association of American Geographers (AAG) and the International Cartographic Association (ICA) are organizations that provide tools, resources, and professional networking opportunities for individuals both domestic and internationally.

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