Overview

Maps have long served as a means for presenting location-based information. However, since the advent of computerized geographic information systems in the 1960s, as well as the subsequent development of software and computing power, maps have become a much more widespread means for managing, analyzing and communicating geospatial information. The extensive demand for geographic information science skills has entailed a significant role for geography. Indeed, although geographic information science is a multi-disciplinary endeavor, geographers have produced the bulk of what now comprise the core knowledge areas of the field.

The department is ranked as one of the top five geography departments in the United States and is recognized globally as a leader in teaching and research in cartographic, spatial analytic and geographic information science.

Possible careers

Students graduating from Geographic Information Science program from The Ohio State University will be prepared to find employment in areas such as resource management, spatial database development and management, environmental planning, transportation planning, software development, cartography, conservation, urban planning, and spatial decision support services. Graduates will also be competitive applicants for graduate schools.

In 2004, the U.S. Department of Labor identified geotechnology as one of the three most important emerging and evolving fields, along with nanotechnology and biotechnology. Traditionally, the public sector has been the main employer of geographic information science professionals, but there are also growing opportunities within the private sector.

Graduates will be prepared for positions beyond routine use of geospatial technologies and will be able to apply spatial analysis techniques to address sophisticated problems in a variety of fields. In addition, graduates will have begun to develop the business and communication competencies required for advancement in government agencies and private businesses.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Human Geography or Economic and Social Geography

Statistical Analysis

Cartography and Map Design

Elementary Computer Programming

Spatial Data Analysis

Geographic Information Systems

Geovisualization

GIS Algorithms and Programming

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-12 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Columbus, United States

Disciplines

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Urban Planning View 194 other Bachelors in Urban Planning in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Successful completion of university preparatory courses

High school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA

Standardized test score (ACT or SAT); Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for ACT or SAT scores

Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community

Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement(e.g., co-curricular activities, work experiences or military service)

Status as a first-generation university student

High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

45526 USD / year

≈ 45526 USD / year
Out-of-State

42423 USD / year

≈ 42423 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

13641 USD / year

≈ 13641 USD / year

Living costs

Columbus

United States

940 - 1520 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Geographic Information Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Possible careers

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Columbus

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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