A Bachelor's in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) blends geography, data analysis, computer science, environmental studies, and design. Students learn to use industry-standard tools like ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, Python, and R, to collect, analyze, and visualize spatial data. They graduate and go on to become GIS professionals who solve real-world problems by using GIS tools to map more efficient transportation routes, predict the spread of a wildfires, or track disease outbreaks.
Can you get your Bachelor of GIS degree online?
Yes, several institutions offer 100% online Bachelor's degrees in GIS. These online degree programs are often more flexible than an on-campus program, offering asynchronous lectures, virtual labs, and discussion forums that allow students to learn at their own pace. Online students also get access to industry-standard software (ArcGIS, QGIS) and faculty support. Most programs are fully remote but some require in-person internships or fieldwork placements.
What would you study in a GIS Bachelors degree?
Degree program curriculums usually include courses in geodatabase management, programming for GIS, cartographic design, and remote sensing. Some programs also explore the ethical considerations related to GIS, such as role of ethics in data access, management, visualization, and decision-making.
Many undergraduate GIS programs also integrate internships or capstone projects that allow students to collaborate with government agencies, nonprofits, or private sector companies on applied research. Graduates of these programs leave with skills in interactive map design, satellite imagery interpretation, and workflow automation - skills critical for any GIS professional's career.
In depth review of some of the top online Bachelors in GIS degree programs
It is important to make sure the online program you choose is an accredited program. Accreditations make sure the curriculum meets industry standards and that graduates can qualify for professional certifications like the GIS Professional (GISP). When researching program options look for institutions accredited by regional bodies like the Higher learning Commission or programs endorsed by the University Consortium for Geographic Information Science (UCGIS).
Arizona State University - Online B.S. in Geographic Information Science
ASU's program focuses on the practical application of geospatial technology across industries like emergency management, public health, and environmental science. Core courses include Cartography and Georepresentation, Statistics for Geography and Planning, and Geographic Information Science. Students may even have the opportunity to work on real-world projects during their studies as the school's Geospatial Research & Solutions (GRS) provides geospatial support services to industry partners.
Admission to the program requires a 3.0 GPA or higher, but conditional acceptance is available to students with lower GPAs. There are no SAT/ACT requirements. For the 2024-2025 academic calendar, tuition for a full-time student and Arizona resident is $12,659. For an out-of-state student tuition is $14,957.
University of Arizona - Online B.S. in Geographic Information Systems Technologies (GIST)
This program develops their students technical abilities in Python, spatial analysis, data science, and remote sensing. Required courses explore topics like surface modeling and dynamic segmentation, while electives introduce students to geodatabase design, web mapping, and open source programming. For students interested in the environmental applications of GIS it's important to know that the program is housed in the UA's School of Georgraphy Development & Environment.
Applicants are required to self-report their grades and a $50 application fee for Arizona residents ($80 for non-residents. There is an optional 500-word personal statement and SAT/ACT scores are not required. Tuition is $525 per credit.
Troy University - Online B.S. in Geographic Information Sciences
Troy's program emphasizes exposing its students to experiential learning opportunities. Students learn to collect spatial information, create data visualizations, and operate field instruments. They are also given the opportunity to complete a semester-long internship or independent senior GIS project. Some students will also be able to participate in externally funded research projects with the university's faculty members. The University offers two GIS bachelor's degree options. The general GIS degree is for interested in technical aspects of GIS and the GIS degree with a concentration in geography for students interested in the social and political implication of spatial analysis.
Applications require the submission of an official transcript, and depending on GPA the submission of ACT or SAT scores. Tuition for online students is $424 per credit hour.
University of Massachusetts Global - Online BBA in GIS and Data Analytics
This unique degree combines business administration with GIS, tailored to meet the needs of graduates interested in careers in business analytics. Students enrolled in this program complete the core requirement for a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, as well as GIS specific courses such as Foundations in Spatial Communications and Applied Data Wrangling. It is important to not that this program is completely self paced, allowing students to progress through it at whatever speed is most comfortable for them.
Required documents for this program vary based on the number of transferrable credits an applicant applies with. Applicants with 0-11 transferrable credits are required to submit a high school diploma or GED and an official high school transcript. Applicants with 12 or more credits are required to have a minimum of 2.0 GPA and submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities they've previously attended. Tuition for this program is $3300 for 6 months of access to online materials.
Oregon State University - Online B.S. in Geography and Geospatial Science
OSU's program allows students to engages students in topics related to physical and human geography, geospatial technology and spatial reasoning. Students learn from faculty with real-world experience in geography and geospatial science and develop skills in Geographic Information Systems, geovisualization and cartography, and geographic field research. Students in this program are required to complete 9 hours of experiential learning which can include geographic field research, an internship, thesis, research, or field geography synthesis.
Applicants need to provide the university with their high school grades, any grades from a college or dual credit program, a filled out personal statement form and a response to one essay prompt. OSU is a test-optional institution and does not require letters of recommendation. Tuition for this program is $366 per credit.
Typical coursework you might take in this degree
A bachelor’s in GIS would usually include these core courses:
- Introduction to GIS: Foundations of spatial data and GIS software.
- Web Mapping: Building interactive maps designed for web or mobile applications.
- Remote Sensing: An introduction to satellite remote sensing and image analysis.
- Spatial Statistics: Using quantitative methods to analyze and interpret geospatial data.
- Cartography: Understanding how to design clear and impactful maps.
Depending on your program you may also have the chance to take electives in urban planning, geography, environmental science, or data science.
Bachelors in GIS degree requirements
Most programs require 120 credit hours and include:
- General Education: Math, science, and humanities courses.
- Core GIS/Geography Courses: Usually 30-40 credit hours in topics like remote sensing, geodatabases, and programming for GIS.
- Electives: 15-20 credits in specialized areas such as interactive cartography, or spatial computing using Python.
- Capstone/Internship: A final project or experience that allows students to demonstrate their technical abilities.
Before starting a GIS program it’s important to make sure your computer meets the system requirement of any software you might need. GIS degrees require student to work with large datasets, run complex analyses, and visualize spatial data, tasks that often require large amounts processing power. Also, make sure to check the GIS software each of your courses require, as some GIS softwares are not MAC-compatible.
What is the best degree for GIS?
The best GIS degree depends on your career goals. If you’re hoping to be a GIS analyst or developer a B.S. in Geographic Information Science or Geographic Information Systems Technology might suit you best as they are often more technical. However, degrees in geography, urban planning, or environmental science complemented by elective GIS coursework could also give you enough GIS experience to become an environmental conservationist, climate researcher, or urban planner.
Is GIS a hard major?
A major in GIS can demand a lot from a student as it requires them to balance learning statistical analysis, principle of geography, and different softwares and coding languages. Taking time to assess your skills, abilities, and interests before choosing a program could reduce the difficulty of the major. Students with backgrounds and interests in math, programming, or computer science have strong chances for success in programs that focus on the technical aspects of GIS. While students with backgrounds and interests in human geography and design might benefit more from a program centered on geography and the storytelling capabilities of mapping.
Is a GIS degree worth it?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has projected growth in GIS related fields. Roles like Cartographer and Photogrammetrists (6% growth by 2033) and Surveying and Mapping Technicians (6% growth by 2033) are projected to outpace the national average growth of all occupations of 4%.
What can you do with a GIS degree?
Industries like agriculture, transportation, insurance, supply chain management, urban planning, rely on experts in GIS to inform their decision-making. Career opportunities include but are not limited to:
- Cartographers and Photogrammetrists: Research and prepare maps and other spatial data.
- Geographic Information Systems Technicians: Build, maintain, and modify GIS databases.
- Geospatial Information Scientists and Technologists: Research or develop geospatial technologies.
- Mapping Technicians: Draw an verify topographical maps.
- Geographers: Analyze the nature and use of areas of the Earth’s surface.
