University of Redlands

Program Information

Degree Offered

Master of Science Geographic Information Systems

Format: Campus

Program Description:

The MS GIS Program is designed for an international audience of professionals seeking to imporve their knowledge of the analysis and management of geographic information. This is a one-year, intensive residential program. A two-year schedule is also availalble. Professionals from many fields and cultural backgrounds participate in this program to enhance their existing academic foundations and experience with comprehensive understanding of GIS fundamentals and the use and application of geographic information technologies. Graduates are GIS professionals prepared for positions as project managers, applications specialists, and application software development team members.

Since this is a professional degree, students undertake a client-driven major individual project completed in lieu of a research thesis during the one- or two-year program. The project culminates in a committee defense, extensive report, and public presentation. Those who continue as professionals in other fields have the skills and knowledge to integrate geographic information technologies and science into their work.

Each student following the one-year schedule receives a high-performance laptop computer configured with all course software, including the full suite of ArcGIS products. The program is located in Lewis Hall which is an LEED-certified Silver Level "green" building. Facilties include all necessary computer peripherals, a 42" plotter, 30 TB of server storage, and a 42" TouchTable. The classrooms are equipped with tabloid format scanners, color laser printers, high definition projectors, SmartBoards, and dual 46" high-definition monitors. The Program also has a suite of GPS surveying equipment, including five Trimble GeoExplorer XH survey grade units, over 30 mapping-grade units, and Trimble GPS Analyst software. Wireless connectivity is available throughout the campus. Wherever the students gather, whether in their dedicated classrooms, the Lewis Hall courtyard, or the GIS graduate student apartment complex, they have a fully functional GIS laboratory.

The MS GIS Program at the University of Redlands benefits from a close relationship with Esri which is headquartered in Redlands. Esri is a source of adjunct faculty, software training, and access to cutting-edge technology and company facilities. A co-sponsored colloquium brings well-known speakers on GIS and its applications to the Redlands area.

Accreditation:

The University of Redlands is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Eligibility Requirements:

*A Bachelors degree in any field.
*At least 2 years of professional experience using GIS or completion of at least two college-level courses in GIS plus an internship lasting at least four months.
*The equivalent of an undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 out of a possible 4.0 during the final two years of study. Applicants with a grade point average less than 3.0 must show promise of success based on other criteria.
*Two letters of recommendation confirming the applicant’s potential for success in the program.
*Competence in speaking and writing English.
*Analytical and technical aptitude demonstrated by a combination of appropriate coursework, professional experience, letters of recommendation, and GRE test scores.

# of Credits Required:

42

International Student Requirements:

International students must also submit a transcript evaluation from IERF or similar agency showing: *The undergraduate degree course by course. *The date conferred. *The GPA based on a 4.0 scale. *Students for whom English is a second language must demonstrate competence by submitting TOEFL scores above 550 written (210 computer based, Internet based minimum of 80 with no section score lower than 18). Alternative internationally recognized tests such as IELTS scores at band 5.5 or above may be considered equivalent.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Cost Per Credit Hour:

$914 USD

Tuition In-State Full Time:

41385 USD

Tuition Out of State Full Time:

41385 USD

Financial Aid Offered: Yes

Classification: Master's Colleges & Universities I

Institution Sector: Private not-for-profit

Locale: Small City

Size & Settings: 1,000 - 4,999