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Bachelor of Arts in Geographic Information Systems

Uncover deeper insights about the world around us. The geographic information systems (GIS) degree program at the University of St. Thomas provides you with the skills and tools you need to communicate, analyze and solve complex problems around the world.

Why study Geographic Information Systems at St. Thomas?

Our interdisciplinary approach means you will utilize knowledge from the physical and social sciences, as well as the humanities, throughout your time at St. Thomas. We promote collaborative research between students and faculty, internships, student research grants and service learning. You graduate with strong problem solving, critical thinking, data analysis, communication and collaboration skills, making you a versatile employee for any industry. Our graduates are working in multiple sectors, including government, private business and education.

A new perspective

  • Course Requirements
  • Four-Year Plan
  • Degrees Awarded
  • Internships and Research
  • Course Requirements

    You start by taking human geography, exploring several different effects on the world from a geographic perspective. You then complete coursework focusing on how globalization influences the unique character and culture of other countries. You will supplement your knowledge with classes in geology, remote sensing and global health. It culminates with a capstone research project with a local community organization.

    Four-Year Plan

    We recommend connecting with a member of our faculty to plan your career at St. Thomas. For more information about geography coursework view a Sample Degree Plan.

    Degrees Awarded

    Bachelor of Arts in Geography – Geographic Information Systems

    Minor in Geographic Information Systems

    Certificate in Geographic Information Systems

    Internships and Research

    All students work closely on real-world projects with community partners, such as the Nature Conservancy, Great River Greening and the Parks and Trails Council of Minnesota. Many of our students also complete internships to gain practical experience. Past internships have been with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Brightside Produce, St. Paul Regional Water Service and Three Rivers Park District.

    Course Requirements

    Course Requirements

    You start by taking human geography, exploring several different effects on the world from a geographic perspective. You then complete coursework focusing on how globalization influences the unique character and culture of other countries. You will supplement your knowledge with classes in geology, remote sensing and global health. It culminates with a capstone research project with a local community organization.

    Four-Year Plan

    Four-Year Plan

    We recommend connecting with a member of our faculty to plan your career at St. Thomas. For more information about geography coursework view a Sample Degree Plan.

    Degrees Awarded

    Degrees Awarded

    Bachelor of Arts in Geography – Geographic Information Systems

    Minor in Geographic Information Systems

    Certificate in Geographic Information Systems

    Internships and Research

    Internships and Research

    All students work closely on real-world projects with community partners, such as the Nature Conservancy, Great River Greening and the Parks and Trails Council of Minnesota. Many of our students also complete internships to gain practical experience. Past internships have been with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Brightside Produce, St. Paul Regional Water Service and Three Rivers Park District.
    Students smile as they collaborated on a group project in a classroom.

    Career Paths

    We give you the tools and knowledge you need to work in a variety of different industries after graduation.

    • Cartography
    • Urban Planning
    • Surveying
    • GIS Consulting
    • Military Intelligence
    • Academia

    Practical experiences inside and outside of the classroom

    You will have access to numerous opportunities for mentorship, research and more inside and outside of the classroom with our program.

    Over 90

    Students have completed over 90 research presentations in the last five years at academic conferences.

    Grants

    Students have earned multiple grants over the last few years, including two Sustainability Scholars Grant and two McNair Scholars Awards.

    Collaborative research

    We promote research projects to all students in our program, and faculty are always eager to get you involved with what they are studying.

    Take the Next Step

    best-value-logo-2022-transparent.pngThere is more to learn about St. Thomas; including our ranking as a Best Value School by U.S. News & World Report, the many classroom and extracurricular activities that will be part of your student experience and so much more. Schedule a visit to see our beautiful campus or start your application today.