Now through October 31, we're waiving application fees for all domestic freshman and transfer applicants!
*Common app code: Central27
Discover the world. Shape its future.
Prepare for careers in
GIS, Environmental Consulting, Urban Planning, Sustainability, Climate Science, and Emergency Management
Learn by doing
Learning extends far beyond the classroom. From your first year, you'll gain hands-on experience through field studies, undergraduate research, internships, community partnerships and applied projects. Whether you're collecting environmental samples, using drones to map landscapes or solving local planning challenges, you'll build practical skills while making a real impact.
GIS and spatial technology
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) transforms data into powerful insights. At CMU, you'll learn to use industry-standard tools including ArcGIS, GPS, remote sensing, drone technology and spatial analytics to analyze environmental change, support community planning and solve complex problems. These highly sought-after technical skills prepare you for careers across science, business, government and technology.
Faculty mentorship
At CMU, you'll work closely with faculty who are committed to your success. Small class sizes create opportunities for one-on-one mentoring, collaborative research and personalized career guidance. Whether you're preparing for graduate school, presenting research or landing your first internship, your professors will be with you every step of the way.
Career ready
Graduate with the technical expertise, field experience and problem-solving skills employers are looking for. Through internships, research, GIS training and real-world projects, you'll be prepared for careers in environmental consulting, sustainability, urban and regional planning, emergency management, conservation, government agencies and many other rapidly growing fields.
Find your path
Undergraduate Programs
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Where Can a Geography Degree Take You?
- GIS Analyst
- Environmental Consultant
- Urban Planner
- Emergency Management Specialist
- Sustainability Coordinator
- Climate Analyst
- Transportation Planner
- Natural Resource Manager
- Cartographer
- Environmental Policy Analyst
- Community Development Specialist
Geographic Information Science (GIS)
Turn data into decisions
Maps do more than show where things are, they reveal patterns, solve problems, and help shape the future.
At Central Michigan University, Geographic Information Science (GIS) combines geography with cutting-edge technology to help you analyze spatial data, visualize complex information, and solve real-world challenges. Whether you're studying climate change, planning smarter cities, protecting natural resources, or responding to natural disasters, GIS provides the tools to make an impact.
Students gain hands-on experience using industry-standard software and technologies while working alongside faculty on research, community projects, and applied learning experiences that prepare them for careers in one of today's fastest-growing fields.
You'll develop skills in:
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Spatial data analysis
- Digital cartography and web mapping
- GPS and field data collection
- Remote sensing
- Geographic data visualization
- Spatial problem solving
GIS powers careers in:
- Urban and regional planning
- Emergency management
- Natural resource management
- Transportation planning
- Public health
- Utilities and infrastructure
- Government agencies
- Conservation organizations
- Private industry
Why study GIS at CMU?
- Learn using industry-standard GIS software.
- Apply classroom knowledge through hands-on projects and field experiences.
- Work closely with faculty mentors on research and community partnerships.
- Build technical skills that complement majors across science, engineering, business, and public service.
- Graduate with the analytical and technological expertise employers are actively seeking.
Interested in GIS?
- Explore the Geographic Information Sciences program and discover how spatial technology can open doors to exciting careers.
Build skills across disciplines
Our students graduate with experience in:
- GIS and spatial analysis
- Environmental science
- Data visualization
- Climate and weather analysis
- Community planning
- Remote sensing
- Research methods
- Communicating and problem solving
Your experience in action
Graduate with a guarantee.
Graduate ready for your next steps with dedicated career support and hands-on experience in your field. We'll even guarantee it with the Central Career Guarantee. If you're eligible and opt in, we guarantee you'll have a job offer or acceptance to graduate school within six months of your graduation.*
Learn More About The Central Career Guarantee
*Eligibility, terms and conditions apply.
Michigan Geographic Alliance
College of Science and Engineering News
New CMU geologist uncovers clues to a 280-million-year-old desert ecosystem
New Central Michigan University geologist Rickey Bartlett is uncovering clues to a 280-million-year-old desert ecosystem through groundbreaking fossil research in the Grand Canyon while providing hands-on research opportunities for CMU students.
Posted June 22, 2026
(5 Minute Read)
(5 Minute Read)
CMU research featured in AP story on climate change and extreme hailstorms
CMU researcher John Allen’s new study, featured by the Associated Press, examines how climate change may increase the severity and frequency of damaging hailstorms worldwide.
Posted May 29, 2026
(0 Minute Read)
(0 Minute Read)
CMU students earn top honors in first-ever appearance at WERC Environmental Design Contest
A Team of CMU students won first place in the Business Flash Pitch, second place in the Bench Scale Demonstration, and an Outstanding Student award at the WERC Env. Design Contest for designing logistics containers for NASA’s upcoming moon missions.
Posted May 18, 2026
(1 Minute Read)
(1 Minute Read)
Upcoming Events
PFAS Awareness and Research Event
Join the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services , CMU faculty, and students for an engaging event focused on PFAS education, research, and career opportunities.
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CMU Alumni & Friends at A Charlie Brown Christmas
Experience the magic of the holiday season with fellow CMU alumni and friends at A Charlie Brown Christmas at the Detroit Opera House.
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Groundbreaking Ceremony
Central Michigan University Board of Trustees, President Neil MacKinnon and Dean Joshua Nosanchuk invite you to a groundbreaking ceremony
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