Overview
As the use of location-based data becomes more pervasive and complicated, we need experts who can leverage spatial data to develop insights and improve decision-making. The Pennsylvania State University Master of Science in Spatial Data Science (SDS) can prepare you to work at the forefront of the geospatial industry, where Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial analysis intersect with the principles of data science, visualization, and programming.
As a student in this completely online program, you can learn to:
- leverage the science of spatial analysis and modeling to develop new workflows to solve problems that impact people and our planet
- architect and implement solutions that blend computational and visual approaches
- research, communicate, and critique data quality and the results of spatial analyses
While some degree programs target users of GIS applications, this next-generation degree focuses on developing the creators who will push the boundaries of industry and science by redefining the power of location-based data. In this program, you can strengthen your programming knowledge and higher-order thinking skills, learning how to solve complex problems that require more than off-the-shelf solutions.
Career Opportunities
Alumni from Penn State's Online Geospatial Education programs are employed in more than 200 companies and organizations around the world. Graduates of this program can work in business, public health, emergency management, natural resources, transportation, energy, or urban development, pursuing a senior-level career as a:
- geospatial software developer
- data scientist
- data visualization software engineer
- geospatial analyst
- geospatial big data engineer
- spatial data engineer
Programme Structure
Courses include:
- GIS Programming and Software Development
- Cartography and Visualization
- Geovisual Analytics
- Geospatial System Analysis and Design
- Geographical Information Analysis
- Exploring Imagery and Elevation Data in GIS Applications
- GIS Database Development
Key information
Duration
- Part-time
- 12 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting
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Language
Credits
33-36
Delivered
Disciplines
Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Data Science & Big Data View 184 other Masters in Data Science & Big Data in United StatesAcademic requirements
We are not aware of any academic requirements for this programme.
English requirements
Other requirements
General requirements
For admission to the Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution.
As part of online application:
- Official transcripts from each institution attended
- English Proficiency
- References (2)
- Personal Statement
- Résumé
Tuition Fee
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International
33231 USD/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 1007 USD per credit during 12 months. -
National
33231 USD/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 1007 USD per credit during 12 months.
11 or fewer credits per semester: $950 per credit
12 or more credits per semester: $11,398 per semester
Funding
Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.