Overview

The M.S. in Spatial Data Science at Pennsylvania State University is an innovative programme that empowers students to harness extensive geospatial data for insightful analysis and problem-solving. This degree uniquely merges the fields of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and data science, enabling graduates to address complex location-based challenges through advanced analytical techniques and programming skills. This programme is entirely online, allowing for flexibility in study while maintaining a rigorous academic structure. Students can complete their coursework at their own pace, ensuring that they can balance their studies with personal and professional commitments.

Why Spatial Data Science at Pennsylvania State University?

Penn State is a recognised leader in online education, with over 100 years of experience in distance learning. The university's World Campus has been at the forefront of online education for more than two decades, ensuring that students receive the same quality of education as those attending on-campus. The programme is designed by expert faculty who are leaders in the geospatial field, providing students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills applicable in various industries.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fee for the M.S. in Spatial Data Science is as follows:

International Students: USD 24,650 per year
Domestic Students: USD 24,650 per year
Local Students: USD 24,650 per year

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

Syllabus

The programme comprises 33 to 36 credits, structured into four key areas of study:

Required courses (15 credits)
Spatial data science methods electives (9 credits)
Spatial data science application electives (6 credits)
Culminating experience: scholarly paper or research thesis (3 or 6 credits)

Required courses include:

GIS Programming and Software Development
Cartography and Visualization
Geovisual Analytics
Geospatial System Analysis and Design
Geographical Information Analysis

Elective courses allow students to delve deeper into specific areas of interest, enhancing their expertise and employability.

Careers with Spatial Data Science

Graduates of the M.S. in Spatial Data Science are well-equipped for senior roles across diverse sectors, including business, public health, emergency management, natural resources, and urban development. Common job titles for alumni include:

Geographic Data Visualization Specialist
Geospatial Analyst
GIS Software Developer
GIS/Geospatial Data Engineer
Spatial Data Scientist

The programme prepares students for a dynamic job market, with increasing demand for data scientists and geospatial professionals.

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

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-05-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Credits

33 SCH

33-36

Delivered

Online

Campus Location

University Park, United States

Disciplines

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Data Science & Big Data View 196 other Masters in Data Science & Big Data in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

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 Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

24650 USD / year

≈ 24650 USD / year
Out-of-State

24650 USD / year

≈ 24650 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

24650 USD / year

≈ 24650 USD / year

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Spatial Data Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

Our partners