Student working on computer.

Chart a course.

Study human-environment interactions and learn geospatial technologies like cartography, remote sensing and computational analysis. The major allows students to gain hands-on experience with computerized Geographic Information System (GIS) that integrate hardware, software and data for capturing, managing, analyzing and displaying all forms of geographically referenced information. GIS allows researchers to work with data in many ways that reveal relationships, patterns and trends in the form of maps, globes, reports and charts. Graduates of this program are prepared to apply their geographic knowledge and technical skills to address problems related to global climate change, regional planning and development, natural resources and much more.

Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
  • Have a genuine curiosity about the world.
  • Enjoy both the hard sciences and social sciences.
  • Like to learn about different places and cultures.
  • Like working with technology.
  • Are a problem solver and analytical thinker.
Career Opportunities
Explore possible career opportunities with this degree:
  • Geographic information systems analyst
  • Urban planner
  • Intelligence analyst
  • Remote sensing analyst
  • Cartographer
Recent Employers
Graduates have gone on to work at employers such as:
  • EROS (Earth Resources Observation and Sciences) Center
  • Fugro Geospatial
  • IMS (Infrastructure Management Services)
  • South Dakota BIT (Bureau of Information Telecommunications)
  • Midcontinent (GIS Analyst)
Internship Opportunities
We have provided the following internship opportunities:
  • EROS (Earth Resources Observation and Sciences) Center
  • 1st Planning District (Watertown)
  • Oak Ridge National Laboratory
  • City of Henderson, Nevada
  • Public Works Department, City of Mounds View, Minnesota
Clubs & Organizations
We offer the following extracurricular clubs to participate in:
  • Geography Club
Suggested Certificates
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Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Certificate (Undergraduate)
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Public Service Certificate (Undergraduate)
Suggested Minors
Image of the earth with connecting network points.
Geospatial Intelligence Minor
Informatics Minor Students
Informatics Minor
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Global Studies Minor
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Political Science Minor
Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's Degree
Statistics Minor
Aerospace Studies
Aerospace Studies Minor
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Military Science Minor
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Land Valuation and Rural Real Estate Minor
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Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Minor
Suggested Dual Majors
Suggested Accelerated Programs
Graduate Research Image
Geography (M.S.) - Geographic Information Sciences Specialization