Geographic Information Science Saint Louis University

Overview

The Geographic Information Science at Saint Louis University provides a comprehensive academic foundation in geospatial theory and practical technical training. This interdisciplinary programme prepares students to address complex environmental and social challenges through advanced spatial statistics and machine learning.

Students can choose from three distinct pathways to suit their professional goals, including a coursework-only option, a research project track, or a traditional thesis route. The curriculum is specifically designed to meet the evolving needs of the global geospatial market, focusing on high-demand skills in photogrammetry and artificial intelligence.

The learning environment is tailored for both dedicated students and working professionals, with classes typically held in the late afternoon or evening.

Why Geographic Information Science at Saint Louis University?

The programme is distinguished by its interdisciplinary approach, drawing expertise from the Department of Earth, Environmental, and Geospatial Science alongside the departments of biology and computer science. This collaborative framework ensures students receive a well-rounded education that spans multiple scientific domains.

Facilities at the institution include state-of-the-art research laboratories equipped with modern computing systems and both commercial and open-source software tools. Students have access to various remote-sensing sensors and both manned and unmanned aircraft, providing unique opportunities for practical fieldwork and high-level research.

The faculty members are active researchers who have secured prestigious grants from major organisations such as NASA, the National Science Foundation, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Their ongoing involvement in the field ensures that the teaching remains aligned with current industry standards and scientific breakthroughs.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 1400 per credit
• National fee: USD 1400 per credit
• Local fee: USD 1400 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Geographic Information Systems
• Geospatial Data Management
• Remote Sensing
• Digital Image Processing
• Digital Cartography and Geovisualization
• Programming for GIS and Remote Sensing
• Geographic Information Systems in Biology
• Machine Learning
• Deep Learning
• Computer Vision
• Image Processing
• Photogrammetry
• Advanced Programming for GIS and Remote Sensing
• Machine Learning for GIS and Remote Sensing
• Microwave Remote Sensing: SAR Principles, Data Processing and Applications
• Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR)
• Geospatial Analytics
• Human Geography
• Satellite Geodesy
• Demographic Methods, Analysis, and Public Policy
• Spatial Demography – Applied Spatial Statistics

Careers with Geographic Information Science

Graduates are exceptionally well-positioned for the job market, entering a field that is experiencing rapid annual growth. The programme prepares individuals for specialist roles in geospatial analytics, imaging science, and spatial database management across various sectors.

Recent alumni have secured successful positions at prominent organisations, including Bayer and the U.S. Geological Survey. Many graduates also find opportunities within government bodies such as the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency or within private environmental and remote sensing firms.

The skills acquired during the programme are highly transferable, allowing graduates to work in industries ranging from urban planning and environmental conservation to commercial market analysis. The focus on emerging technologies like Python and R ensures that students remain competitive in the evolving digital economy.