Geography and Environmental Systems
Graduate ProgramsWhy Study Geography and Environmental Systems?
Learn about the importance of coupled natural and human systems and landscape patterns in relation to human activities and their environmental consequences from a local, regional, and international perspective.
A graduate degree in Geography and Environmental Systems trains you to understand earth systems science, ecosystem science, human geography and urban geography, and human dimensions of global change by applying geospatial technology to research questions across all areas of interest. Some of the careers you will be prepared for as a graduate include careers in the natural sciences, public policy, engineering, and information technology.
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Which Program is Right for You?
Master of Professional Studies in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
The Department of Geography and Environmental Systems is at the interface between natural science, social science, public policy, engineering and information technology, with faculty who have the background and collaborative relationships in both research and teaching related to all of these areas. The Master's in Professional Studies in Geographic Information Systems is unique in its focus on applying critical GIS to improve the lives of people, society, and the environment. Students will gain the knowledge and technical skills for careers involving geographical analysis and programming suited for professionals who need to solve complex issues using GIS.
VIEW Master of Professional Studies DETAILS →Master of Science in Geography and Environmental Systems
The Department of Geography and Environmental Systems is at the interface between natural science, social science, public policy, engineering, and information technology, with faculty who have the background and collaborative relationships in both research and teaching related to all of these areas. We offer graduate programs towards a Master’s or a Doctorate in Geography and Environmental Systems. We also offer a Graduate Certificate and Master’s in Professional Studies in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Both a non-thesis option and a thesis option are available for the Master’s in Geography and Environmental Systems.
VIEW Master of Science DETAILS →Ph.D. in Geography and Environmental Systems
The Department of Geography and Environmental Systems (GES) is at the interface between natural science, social science, public policy, engineering, and information technology, with faculty who have the background and collaborative relationships in both research and teaching related to all of these areas. We offer graduate programs toward a Master’s or a Ph.D. in Geography and Environmental Systems. We also offer a Graduate Certificate and Master’s in Professional Studies in Geographic Information Systems.
VIEW Ph.D. DETAILS →Certificate in Geographic Information Systems
A graduate certificate in GIS instills a foundation of spatial knowledge and technical skills for careers that employ spatial computing. Students gain an understanding of essential geographic principles and concepts needed to solve problems in nearly any industry or academic discipline.
VIEW Certificate DETAILS →Tuition, Scholarships & Financial Aid
Find opportunities to further advance your career and academic studies.
UMBC participates in all federal and state student financial aid programs and offers scholarships and assistantships through the Graduate School, Graduate Departments and the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.
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Contact Information
UMBC Graduate School Admissions Office Contact Information
Mailing Address
UMBC Graduate School
1000 Hilltop Circle Baltimore, MD 21250
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Staff are available from
Mon - Fri, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 410-455-2537
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Email Graduate Admissions at gradschool@umbc.edu.