


Geography: Geographic Information Sciences
Major, Minor
Program Overview
Geographic Information Science prepares you to answer real world problems using spatial data and tools. From public health to business to environmental science, the world is increasingly interconnected and GIS creates, manages, and analyzes these connections.
Program Snapshot
Why This Program & What You'll Learn
Geospatial data and technology is essential for city planning, constructing and maintaining infrastructure, environmental management, business, public health and so much more.
You’ll gain essential technical skills and learn how to solve real world problems using the latest industry leading geospatial technology.
Customize your major with specialized courses in cartography, environmental modeling, spatial statistics, social-science applications of GIS, python programing and more. You'll also learn about GIS careers from alumni and prepare digital portfolios highlighting skills to future employers in a senior capstone course.
Program Highlights
As a student in our geography program, you’ll:
- Gain hands-on experience with our state-of-the-art virtual computing labs – access industry-leading software in the classroom, residence hall room, or anywhere with internet access.
- Benefit from small classes, field trips, and opportunities to do research with faculty.
- Gain professional development and contacts through student organizations such as the Geography Club.
- Complete a senior capstone course that prepares you for careers through networking with alumni, resume and portfolio development, and a final project that shows off your skill to future employers.
- Be able to combine your major with a certificate in Cartographic Design or Drones to impress future employers.
Concentrations
Geographic Information Sciences
Careers & Outcomes
Prepare for an exciting career in geography with highly marketable skills that give you access to many opportunities. Become a geospatial intelligence analyst, GIS analyst, urban planner, cartographer, resource manager, environmental consultant, climatologist, and educator.
Career | Projected Salary |
---|---|
Urban and Regional Planner | $78,500 |
Cartographer | $68,900 |
GIS Analyst | $62,612 |

Explore the CMU Center for Geographic Information Science
The Center for Geographic Information Science at Central Michigan University has provided geospatial facilities and services to the university, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private industry for over 25 years.
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