Master of Geographic Information Science

"Given the flexibility of the program, I strongly recommend it to working professionals, as well as those seeking a traditional full-time master’s program."
Michael Plante
MGIS 2003,
Senior Hydrogeologist, Leggette, Brashears & Graham, Inc.
The Master of Geographic Information Science (MGIS) program is a unique professional masters degree associated with the Geography Department at the University of Minnesota, a top-ranked department in the United States with a strong tradition in cartography and GIS. The MGIS program is also affiliated with other academic units including Forest Resources, Computer Science, the Center for Urban and Regional Affairs (CURA), and Soil, Water and Climate.
The objective of the program is to provide a comprehensive GI Science degree that balances work in the theoretical aspects of GIS, the technical side of the discipline, and the applications domain. Program strengths include:
- Broad professionally-based curriculum
- Internationally-recognized multidisciplinary faculty
- Hands-on training from leading GIS professionals
- Diverse and active student body
- Excellent facilities and resources
Graduates of our program are well-suited to have careers as GIS practitioners and professionals in government, private and non-profit sectors.
U of M presents honorary degree to geographic information system pioneer Jack Dangermond
Jack Dangermond, founder and president of ESRI, the world's leading GIS software company, received an Honorary Doctor of Science degree from the University of Minnesota on Wednesday, April 2. Dangermond also delivered the inaugural John Borchert Lecture, in honor of the late John Borchert, University of Minnesota Regents Professor in Geography and member of the U.S. National Academy of Science. View the University News Service press release. July 3rd, 2008