Individuals across the geospatial workforce seeking focused and specialized training to become competitive and contribute to the range of positions in this diverse industry

The Master of Science in Geographic Information Science (MSGIS) is a one-year, 30-unit program designed to develop core competencies required of the geospatial workforce which include technical, analytical, business, and interpersonal competencies.  This degree responds to a national, regional, and local need for a well-trained geospatial workforce.

The MSGIS degree was designed in the spirit of the national movement toward the development of PSM degrees. These degrees differ from the typical MA/MS degree in that they provide students with advanced training while also developing workplace skills that are highly valued by employers.

The CSULB GIS Certificate is an undergraduate level certificate usually earned as part of a BA degree. It can be completed upon graduation, and post-baccalaureate students can earn this Certificate. The MSGIS is a degree program specifically designed for masters-level students.

The program is designed as an in-residence program. The "MBA-style" course is offered in a hybrid fashion.

Program courses are scheduled on Monday and/or Wednesday evenings and selected Saturdays, throughout a 12-month period. During the 3-week January intersession, courses will be offered in the evenings and Saturdays.

The class schedule is designed to accommodate working professionals. The full-time course load requires a significant time commitment.

In the MSGIS, a small cohort of 25 students undertakes the intensive curriculum, taking all the same courses together. The format generally leads to strong professional and personal ties among the students that last well beyond the duration of the program.

No. The MSGIS degree is designed to be completed in 1-year and is dependent on the cohort-based format. The purpose of this format is for students to work together as a group and experience team-based project development and completion. Skills needed to complete the project are developed throughout the year.

No. You must complete the 30-units of coursework specifically designed for this degree program. We value the contributions your experiences will provide to the classroom dynamic.

To be eligible for this degree you do not need a bachelor’s degree in geography (although a BA or BS degree is required). We do require previous upper-division coursework in GIS. Professional experience in GIS is highly desired.

Yes. The application process requires two letters of reference. We recommend one reference to be provided by an academic and one from a professional contact.  Select someone who can accurately discuss your character, qualifications, academic and/or professional history, ability to undertake graduate-level work and academic and/or career goals.

The understanding of theory is a foundation of responsible practice and analysis. The focus of the MSGIS training is on technical and analytical skill development.

While we facilitate opportunities for project work, the culminating project is often student-initiated. Students are encouraged to work in a team environment.

Program tuition is $650 per unit; $19,500 for the 30-unit degree. Parking passes will cost approximately $450 for the year. The Student Housing office estimates living expenses in the Long Beach area to amount to $12,000 per year, or $10,500 per year to live on-campus.

Tuition and fees are the same for CA state residents and out-of-state students.

The entire fee does not need to be paid in advance. Students may register for one semester at a time.

Yes, please contact the Financial Aid Office at CSULB by clicking here or calling (562) 985-8403. The FAFSA deadline for schools in California is usually March 2.

Yes, please contact the Financial Aid and Scholarships at CSULB by clicking here or calling (562) 985- 2549.

Yes. Please contact the Veteran’s Affairs office for additional information at (562) 985-5115.

No, the GRE is currently not required to apply for the MSGIS.

The TOEFL test measures a students’ ability to use and understand English at the university level. Non-native English speakers may be required to take this test to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. Admission to CSULB graduate programs requires a TOEFL score of 213 on the computerized test, 80 on the internet based test (or 550 on the pencil and paper test).

• Students enrolled in this program are eligible for some forms of financial aid, with the exception of the State University Grant (SUG) and Cal Vet College Fee Waiver.  
• GI Bill benefits can be used for this program. Click here to learn more about eligibility, rates, and other details.