A geographic information system, or GIS, is a system designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage and present all types of geographically referenced data. GIS typically are used to make maps which combine information useful for environmental studies, geology, engineering, planning, business marketing, and other disciplines. Geographic information system graduate programs prepare students for a variety of careers such as surveyors, cartographers, photogrammetrists and surveying and mapping technicians
Geographic Information Systems Graduate Programs and Curriculum
Almost all geographic information systems graduate programs will require you to take:
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Introduction to graduate geography
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Research design
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Univariate statistics in geography
GIS Ph.D. and master’s students should consult with an advisor to determine their area of specialization. Possible topics could include:
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Population growth
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Weather patterns
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Traffic patterns
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Development of roads and neighborhoods
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Transportation and spatial information
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GIS design
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Urban geography
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GIS algorithms and data structure
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GIS and environmental modeling
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Cartography and geographic visualization
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Landscaping modeling with GIS
Geographic Information Systems Career Paths
Geographic Information Systems specialists can work in a variety of fields, from urban and regional planning to surveying and mapmaking. While a master’s degree in GIS or a GIS Ph.D. may not be required, a graduate degree in geographic information systems will help you stand out in the crowd of applicants, especially if you’re seeking a government job.
Geographic Information Systems Future Job Outlook
Based on the Occupational Employment Statistics Survey done by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income for a Surveyor was approximately $58,000 in May of 2010.
Pay levels vary with the industry of employment.

Data according to
The Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Ed.
Per the BLS, employment of surveyors, cartographers and the like is expected to grow by 19 percent from 2008 to 2018, which is faster than the average national rate.

Data according to
The Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Ed