Spatial Data Science

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