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Home > Study in USA > California State University - Northridge > Master of Science in Geographic Information Science (STEM)

Master of Science in Geographic Information Science (STEM) California State University - Northridge California State University - Northridge, USA

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USD 16542

Annual Tuition Fee

!
*Subject to change and other fees
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USD 70

Application Fee

Duration icon

24 months

Duration

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6.5

IELTS

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80

TOEFL

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70%

Min GPA

Program Overview

Make our communities safer and more sustainable with advanced geospatial mapping. Use cutting-edge technology to analyze geographic data used by governments, developers and researchers.

Why Earn a Master's in Geographic Information Science?

While we can collect more data than ever before, we need tools to help us process that information. With a master's degree in geographic information science, you will be able to map, display and analyze data for use by companies, governments and scientists.

By studying geographic information science, you will learn state-of-the-art geospatial technologies, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS). You will use GIS software to create maps with geographic data. You will help researchers and companies discover patterns in both natural and manmade phenomena. It is especially helpful in studying urban concerns like zoning, transportation needs, open space and more. With your skills, you'll provide solutions to create a more sustainable, healthy world.

Why Study Geographic Information Science at CSUN?

Real-world Skills

CSUN's Geographic Information Science program will help you pursue a career in this highly technical field. You will be adept at using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) through practice in our labs and in the field. Our faculty will share their expertise in many GIS applications, including health geography, spatial demography and urban planning. They will teach you the skills you need to be ahead of the curve.

Cutting-edge Technology

The Department of Geography and Environmental Studies houses two state-of-the-art geospatial computer labs. You'll access the latest GIS software on desktop units and iPad devices. This will help you gain experience in lab and outdoor settings. You'll be able to practice this technology for your classes and research projects.

In the Field

Learn practical skills beyond the campus setting. You will hone your skills in diverse environments—from Death Valley to the Channel Islands. With your professor and classmates, you will collect data and practice sampling techniques. You will use advanced laser-based surveying equipment, advanced sediment analysis and other tools. Through this experience, you will be able to gain the skills to jumpstart your career.

What You'll Learn

As a Geographic Information Science master's student, you'll learn the intricacies of geospatial mapping. You'll study Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and gain hands-on experience with the software. You'll also learn how to collect, analyze and manage data.

You will help focus your career skills by choosing your own graduate seminar courses. You can select courses from:

  • Digital cartography
  • Remote sensing via drones and satellites
  • WebGIS
  • GIS automation and customization
  • Spatial database management

You can also choose elective courses on:

  • Human and cultural applications in GIS
  • Environmental and physical applications in GIS
  • Water resource management in GIS
  • Geospatial project management

You will also take a spatial statistics course to help you analyze data. For your culminating experience, you will submit a thesis or graduate project to a departmental faculty committee

Read more

Additional Information

Program Level Master's Degree

College/University Processing Time 21 Days

Program Format Full-Time

Optional Practical Training (OPT) work permit

Program Intake

Open

Aug 2026

Closed

Jan 2026

General Admission Requirement

    Academic Requirement

    • Minimum Level of Education Required: To be accepted into this program, applicants must have a Bachelor's Degree.

    6.5 IELTS Score
    80 TOEFL Score Minimum Overall Score
    58 PTE Score Minimum Overall Score
    105 Duolingo Minimum Overall Score
    70% CGPA Minimum Overall Score

    Similar Programs

    Tuition Fee

    The values given below are estimated figures, excluding extra charges like material fee, student activity fees, athletic fees, health care, etc., for courses. To know more, please visit the page.

    Average Tuition Fee Per Year

    16542

    Tuition Fee
    (USD)

    USD 70

    Application Fee
    (USD)

    18304 Per year

    Average Cost of Living
    (USD)

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    The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

    for more information about funding options.

    Scholarships

    Associated Students International Matador Scholarship:

    • Award amount: $3,000
    • Eligibility: Continuing international students (F-1 status) with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (undergraduate) or 3.5 (graduate)
    • Requirements: Academic ability, financial need, and promotion of international student involvement

    Associated Students Dianne F. Harrison Award:

    • Award amount: $500
    • Eligibility: Continuing international students (F-1 status) with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (undergraduate) or 3.5 (graduate)
    • Requirements: Academic achievements, future educational and career goals, and student involvement

    Dianne F. Harrison Leadership Award:

    • Award amount: $8,000
    • Eligibility: Continuing CSUN undergraduate students who entered as freshmen in Fall 2023 and completed at least 30 units
    • Requirements: Leadership involvement, academic achievements, and campus involvement

    MSP Tanni Block Memorial LGBTQIA+ Scholarship:

    • Award amount: $1,250
    • Eligibility: Continuing undergraduate or graduate students (including international students) with a minimum GPA of 2.0
    • Requirements: Advocacy and involvement with LGBTQIA+ communities, leadership experience, and commitment to inclusivity

    Alumni Higher Education Program:

    • Award amount: $1,000
    • Eligibility: CSUN alumni pursuing graduate education at CSUN with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (undergraduate) or 3.5 (graduate)
    • Requirements: Academic achievements, personal statement, and letter of recommendation

    International Graduate Student Program:

    • Award amount: $1,000
    • Eligibility: Continuing international graduate students (F-1 status)
    • Requirements: Academic achievements and graduate student status

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