We anticipate that the Fall 2023 cohort will be the last admitted to this program
The MSGA program will provide you with the ability to master geospatial technology and critically assess data and results to ask and answer spatial questions. Intended for recent graduates with a major, minor, certificate, or multiple courses in geospatial technology, and for professionals already working in geospatial fields, the program integrates theory and technical training with critical thinking, project management, and communication skills – giving you the competitive advantage you need to advance your career in the high-growth geospatial technology industry.
Students working in the GIS laboratory, Monroe Hall
Program Structure
The MSGA is a 30-credit hour professional degree that emphasizes instruction in theory and practical applications, and prepares students for careers. It is a cohesive, highly structured program designed to ensure the mastery of specific knowledge and skills. Entering students will have either undergraduate course work in GIS or professional experience with GIS. Students may enroll full- or part-time; part-time students may take one or two courses per semester. The program comprises:
- three 4-credit required courses (12 credit hours)
- three 4-credit elective courses (12 credit hours)
- one 6-credit capstone project (6 credit hours)
Classes are held in the evenings on the Fredericksburg campus so as to meet the needs of part-time students. All but one are in-person; one is online but synchronous. All master’s degree students have access to the GIS laboratory 24 hours a day, seven days a week, except when courses are scheduled. Students communicate with professors by telephone and email, as well as in person.
The Curriculum for the program is flexible, allowing students to focus on their areas of interest.
Length of Program
Earn a degree at your own pace – either as a full- or part-time student. Attending full time, you can complete the program in 12 months if you start in fall. If you enroll part time and take at least one course per semester, you can complete the degree requirements in three years. The majority of our students work full-time and take classes part-time.