Geographic Information Systems, commonly referred to as GIS, are increasingly being used across a wide range of industries to analyze spatial data and understand how different factors relate to each other based on location. As the use of GIS continues to grow, so too does the demand for skilled GIS professionals. Earning a GIS degree is a great way to prepare for an exciting career working with spatial data and advanced mapping technologies.
With the rise of online education, you no longer need to put your career ambitions on hold or relocate to pursue GIS training. There are now many excellent GIS degree programs offered fully online. However, with so many options available, choosing the right online GIS program can feel overwhelming.
Understanding the Types of Online GIS Degree Programs
There are three main types of online GIS degree programs to consider: certificate programs, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees. Let’s explore the basic differences between them:
GIS Certificate Programs
GIS certificate programs are usually the shortest option, ranging from 6 months to 2 years of part-time study. Certificate programs provide introductory GIS training and are ideal for professionals looking to add GIS skills to their existing career or resume. Coursework covers the basics of GIS software, cartography, spatial analysis, and database management. Certificates do not require a high level of math or science prerequisites.
Associate’s Degrees in GIS
Associate of Science (AS) or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees in GIS typically take 2 years of full-time study to complete. In addition to introductory GIS concepts covered in certificate programs, associate degrees provide a broader foundation in related areas like GPS, remote sensing, and environmental science. More advanced GIS techniques like 3D modeling and programming may also be introduced. Associates degrees are a good mid-level option for those new to the field.
Bachelor’s Degrees in GIS
Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees are the most in-depth online GIS program, often taking 4 years to complete part-time. Coursework spans introductory through advanced GIS topics and also features plenty of electives allowing students to specialize. Common specializations include urban planning, environmental science, geography, geology and more. Bachelor’s degrees provide a well-rounded education preparing graduates for managerial roles and jobs requiring self-sufficiency with complex GIS projects. Higher-level math, statistics, and programming skills are developed.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Program
With the foundational differences between online GIS degrees understood, let’s dive deeper into other important factors to weigh when selecting the best program for your goals:
Program Reputation and Accreditation
Look for schools with a proven track record of respected GIS programs, especially those accredited by the Applied Science Accreditation Commission (ASAC). Accreditation assures the program meets high standards for curriculum, faculty, and student outcomes. Reputable programs are more likely to offer career support resources too.
Cost and Financing Options
Check published tuition rates and total estimated costs like fees and books. Research available scholarships for GIS students as well as income-driven repayment plans for loans. Public colleges tend to be more affordable, but career placement success matters most in the long run.
Scheduling Flexibility
Fully online programs allow studying anywhere, but commitment is still needed. Determine if programs are fully asynchronous or require occasional synchronous sessions. Also confirm if accelerating time to completion is possible through additional credits per term. Work/life balance is important to consider.
Specialization Tracks
While all programs cover GIS fundamentals, specialized tracks allow focusing in areas like remote sensing, programming, environmental applications and more. Choose a program with electives or projects aligning to your interests.
Hands-on Learning
Look for programs integrating substantial hands-on projects, internships, and capstone work to gain practical skills. Review learning resources and tech support available too. Join student forums to assess peer experiences.
Career Support and Outcomes
Successful alumni networks, job placement assistance, career fairs and industry partnerships indicate a program’s ability to help graduates find work. Check employment and further education stats to gauge career potential post-graduation.
Comparing Top-Ranked Online GIS Degree Programs
With the key factors in mind, let’s examine details of some top-rated online GIS degree programs:
University of Redlands – MS GIS
- Accredited program focused on applied research projects
- Specializations in disaster management, environmental planning, and geospatial intelligence
- 89% national job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
- Flexible fully online schedule with monthly synchronous sessions
- Average tuition of $38,000 including fees for 2-year program
Penn State World Campus – BS GeoSciences, GeoSpatial Option
- In-depth education from a world-leading university program
- Extensive hands-on learning through semester research projects
- Specializations available in remote sensing, cartography, programming
- Tuition around $27,600/year including fees for full-time online study
- Career coaching, internships, and networking opportunities through Alumni Careers Program
University of Southern California – Online MS in GIS
- Renowned research university program with active faculty research
- Curriculum spans fundamentals to cutting-edge GIS techniques
- Special focus on remote sensing, programming, and business applications
- Tuition of $58,000 plus fees, can often be covered through graduate assistantships
- Valuable industry connections through on-campus career fairs
Oregon State University – BS Applied Geography & GIS
- Flexible, self-paced program combining online classes and mentored projects
- Affordable annual tuition around $8,000 for in-state residents
- Well-rounded education applicable to fields like urban planning, environmental science
- Graduates have access to a large global alumni network for career support
- Program highly rated for hands-on learning through community-based projects
Western Governors University – BS GIS
- One of the most affordable programs at around $3,000 per six-month term
- Competency-based structure allowing credit for prior learning and work experience
- Specializations in fields such as environmental science, sustainability, and health informatics
- Self-paced model fits any schedule with mentor support
- Over 80% of graduates report being employed in a GIS-related job within a year
These represent a sampling of top-ranked programs to demonstrate the variety of specializations, costs, and learning formats available. Selecting the right program requires careful assessment of your preferences and needs. Let’s take a closer look at some frequently asked questions.
FAQ About Online GIS Degree Programs
What is the job outlook for GIS professionals?
The job outlook for GIS professionals is very positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 11% increase in GIS jobs between 2020-2030—much faster than the average for all occupations. Strong demand exists across fields like urban planning, environmental science, emergency management, transportation, land management and more. Many new job opportunities will also emerge as spatial analytics become more integral to business intelligence.
Can I earn an online GIS degree while working full-time?
Yes, most online GIS degree programs are designed to accommodate working professionals. Coursework is delivered asynchronously through an online learning management system, allowing you to study on your own flexible schedule. It may take longer than a traditional 4 years to complete a Bachelor’s degree part-time, but programs are structured to fit your pace. Look for flexible scheduling and the option to accelerate time to completion by taking additional courses per term if desired.
What is the difference between GIS certificates and GIS associate degrees?
GIS certificate programs offer introductory training over 6 months to 2 years, focusing on basic software skills and applications. Graduates can perform technical GIS tasks under supervision. GIS associate degrees take 2 years of full-time study and provide a broader grounding in related fields. In addition to entry-level GIS work, associate’s graduates may pursue roles like GIS technician, mapping assistant or junior analyst. Overall, certificates develop specific technical skills while associates offer a well-rounded 2-year education applicable to broader job opportunities.
Is a bachelor’s degree needed for most GIS jobs?
While entry-level GIS positions can often be obtained with a certificate or associate’s, a bachelor’s degree is typically required or strongly preferred for most professional GIS roles, especially those involving project management, data analysis and development responsibilities. A bachelor’s provides a deeper understanding of GIS principles and specialized training that prepares graduates for high-level GIS work. Certification through GISCI or other bodies can help advance careers too for those with associate’s degrees. However, the earning potential and career growth opportunities are significantly greater with a bachelor’s.