Master of Science in Geographic Information Science (M.S. GISc)
The Master of Science in Geographic Information Science (M.S. GISc) is an accelerated one-year graduate program designed for students eager to transform spatial data into actionable insight. You’ll develop expertise in GIS theory, spatial reasoning, and analytical tools to solve real-world challenges in planning, environment, and policy. The curriculum combines six advanced courses with a supervised final project that applies cutting-edge methods in GIScience, computer science, and geography. As a U.S. STEM-designated degree, the program offers international students eligibility for a 24-month OPT extension—providing up to three years of hands-on experience and career advancement in the geospatial field.
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Why study M.S. GISc at SJSU?
Turn Data into Real-World Impact!
The only one in Silicon Valley!
Gain Spatial Advantage!
Work With Faculty on Research Projects
- GIS Analysis of Urban Micromobility Networks
- Spatial Accessibility of Public Transit Infrastructure
- Mapping Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Hotspots
- Spatial Equity in Transit-Oriented Development
- Geospatial Assessment of Sidewalk Quality and Walkability
- GIS-Based Evaluation of Transit Stop Design and Urban Form
- Spatial Modeling of Shared Mobility Patterns
- Geovisualization of Street-Level Urban Infrastructure
What M.S. GISc Students Say About The Program
Stephanie Nemet, '26
The M.S. GISc program at SJSU equipped me with technical expertise, advanced spatial analysis skills, and invaluable mentorship that shaped both my academic growth and professional confidence. Through hands-on projects, collaborative research, and real-world applications of GIS, I developed the ability to solve complex spatial problems and communicate insights effectively. The supportive faculty and strong industry connections prepared me for a successful, impactful, and meaningful career in the evolving field of geographic information science today.
The program is an efficient, one-year degree that has everything I need to further strengthen my skills in geospatial analysis and advance my professional goals. Its focused curriculum combines theoretical foundations with hands-on technical training in GIS, spatial statistics, remote sensing, and data visualization. The accelerated structure allows me to gain practical experience quickly while maintaining academic rigor, making it an ideal pathway to deepen my expertise and stay competitive in the rapidly evolving geospatial industry.
Emily Dewing
’26 M.S. GISc
I chose SJSU's M.S. GIScience program to advance my skills in mapping, spatial analysis, and to help solve real-world challenges. The program's rigorous curriculum and experienced faculty have given me a strong foundation in both the technical and analytical aspects of geospatial science. I am confident that the skills I am building here will allow me to make a meaningful impact in addressing complex problems, from urban planning to environmental sustainability.
Danny Keil
’26 M.S. GISc
This program helps my understanding of spatial relationships, improves my critical thinking skills, and enables me to make better decisions across various fields. Through hands-on projects and real-world applications, I have gained the technical expertise needed to analyze complex geographic data with confidence. The knowledge I've developed at SJSU continues to open new opportunities for me to apply GIS solutions in meaningful and impactful ways.
Jaisipa Mingthaisong
'24 M.S. GISc
Want to Learn More?
- Future open house: SPPES Event Page
M.S. GISc Graduates at Work
Graduates of the M.S .GISc program at SJSU pursue diverse and dynamic career pathways across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Alumni work as GIS analysts, spatial data scientists, urban and transportation planners, environmental consultants, and geospatial software specialists. Many contribute to local governments, technology firms, utilities, and research institutions throughout the Bay Area and beyond. With strong technical training and applied experience, our graduates are prepared to lead data-driven decision-making in an increasingly spatial and technology-focused workforce.
Snapshot of Career Pathways
- Urban & Regional GIS Analyst
- Environmental GIS Specialist
- Transportation GIS Analyst
- Remote Sensing & Image Analysis Specialist
- Geospatial Data Scientist
- Location Intelligence & Spatial Analytics Specialist
Where are M.S. GISc Graduates Getting Jobs?
- Meta
- City of San Jose
- Univercity of California
- Fehr and Peers
- County Regional Transportation Commission
- NYC Parks and Recreation
Visit the Career Center to view all the resources available to help you explore career pathways and opportunities to engage with employers.
Admission Requirements
The Master of Science in Geographic Information Science (M.S. GISc) admits students for the Fall only and admits a cohort of 20. This program is STEM-eligible.
Deadlines
International Students: April 1
Domestic Students: July 1
Application Process
SJSU follows a two-step graduate admissions process:
Step 1
Apply through Cal State Apply.
Step 2:
Upload program-required documents (M.S. GISc Admission Eligibility Requirements section below) in the Cal State Apply application (Quadrant 4).
Eligibility Requirements
Contact Us
If you have any questions about the program or need assistance, please email our team at plan-policy-envs@sjsu.edu.
Funding Resources
Program Courses
The Master of Science in Geographic Information Science (M.S. GISc) is a 30 unit program. To complete the program, students must take Only 6 core courses and 2 cumulative experience courses.. Descriptions of all of the courses are available on the SJSU Catalog. Program courses are subject to change.
Program Learning Outcomes
The M.S. GISc at SJSU prepares students to explore spatial theory and its real-world applications. Through a rigorous curriculum, students develop expertise in GIS-based problem solving and decision making while gaining knowledge across geographic information science, computer science, geography, and urban and regional planning.
Visit the catalog to access the learning outcomes for Geographic Information Science program.
Faculty Spotlight
Dr. Zandi brings a wealth of expertise in geographic information science, spatial analysis, and urban analytics to the M.S. in GISC program at SJSU. With extensive experience in GIS-based research and teaching, his work focuses on the intersection of technology, the built environment, mobility, and healthy communities. Through innovative research and applied projects, Dr. Zandi helps students develop the analytical and technical skills needed to address complex spatial challenges and support data-driven decision making.
Ahoura Zandiatashbar, Ph.D.
M.S. GISc Founding Director
Dr. Kianmehr brings expertise in environmental planning, climate resilience, and spatial analysis to the M.S. in GISC program at SJSU. Her research focuses on extreme heat, urban tree canopy, public health, and the ways communities experience climate-related vulnerabilities. Using advanced quantitative methods such as microclimate modeling, spatial analysis, and machine learning, Dr. Kianmehr helps students explore how geospatial technologies can support resilient, healthy, and sustainable communities.
Ayda Kianmehr, Ph.D.
M.S. GISc Professor
Dr. Moran brings expertise in urban transportation, spatial data analysis, and innovative geospatial research methods to the M.S. in GISC program at SJSU. His work combines satellite imagery, open data mining, and field-based data collection to better understand transportation systems and urban mobility. With research that has informed policy changes in major cities such as San Francisco and New York City, Dr. Moran helps students explore how GIS and data-driven analysis can support more efficient, equitable, and sustainable urban environments.
Marcel Moran, Ph.D.
M.S. GISc Professor
Student Spotlight
SJSU GIS and Drone Student Club!
The official student organization of the M.S. GISc program, the GIS and Drone Student Club builds community among graduate students while supporting career advancement in geospatial technology. Members prepare together for the GISp certification exam through shared study resources and peer support. The club also offers hands-on training in drone operation for GIS applications, helping students work toward the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate—an increasingly valuable credential for geospatial careers.
About the program
The M.S. in Geographic Information Science program at SJSU is taught by accomplished faculty whose research advances the fields of GIS, spatial analytics, urban mobility, climate resilience, and data science. Through innovative research and applied projects, faculty provide students with opportunities to engage in hands-on learning using cutting-edge geospatial technologies, spatial modeling, and real-world data analysis.
Our program philosophy centers on supporting students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. Through a flexible and collaborative learning environment, students develop both technical expertise and practical problem-solving skills that prepare them for careers in industry, government, research, and planning. The program emphasizes applied learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and professional development to help graduates succeed in the rapidly growing geospatial workforce.
