M.A. in Geographic Information Systems, Spatial Technologies, Applications, and Research
The M.A. in Geographic Information Systems, Spatial Technologies, Applications, and Research (GISTAR) at UC Santa Cruz's Environmental Studies (ENVS) department offers an innovative and professional two-year degree program designed to provide students with cutting-edge training in advanced geospatial technologies and analysis, applications such as visualization and programming, and geospatial research opportunities. Situated near Silicon Valley, UCSC is next to the heart of the global tech industry, giving students unique access to one of the most dynamic tech ecosystems in the world. UC Santa Cruz is renowned for its strength in both student training and research, consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide for its influence in research across a range of disciplines.
The GISTAR program offers students transformative, transdisciplinary graduate training and provides the essential knowledge and expertise to tackle complex logistical, methodological, and analytical challenges in geospatial systems, research, technology, and application development. We use applied data analytics, visualization, machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), and technological solutions to drive interdisciplinary innovation across the social and natural sciences.
Through a combination of theoretical and hands-on training, the GISTAR program prepares students for rapidly evolving technological landscapes by offering advanced training in GIS technologies, including spatial analysis, remote sensing, geospatial programming, and spatial statistics. Students will have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge tools such as drones, AI, and machine learning, developing the skills necessary to harness the power of data analytics, visualization, and modeling to drive interdisciplinary research and innovation. Whether students aim to pursue careers in ecological or geological systems, environmental policy, climate change, environmental and social justice, or technology development, the GISTAR program provides the comprehensive training needed to excel in a highly competitive and impactful field.
Curriculum
The two-year GISTAR M.A. curriculum includes a set of six required core courses, one applications course focused on GIS development and geospatial technologies, two elective courses focused on topical proficiency in environmental studies and other disciplines, and a two-quarter Plan II capstone project.
The curriculum is organized across four categories:
- Foundational core courses: The GISTAR program requires five core courses in GIS, remote sensing, and cartography. These courses are offered sequentially in the first year and cover an introduction to GIS principles and spatial modeling, advanced analytical methods, and advanced spatial data modeling and project design. A dedicated lab component is included to offer hands-on computer training, ensuring students gain practical experience with essential tools and techniques. In addition, students complete a remote sensing course and a digital cartography course.
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) development courses: These courses equip students with essential programming and machine learning skills for modern geospatial analysis and focus on advanced geospatial applications and analysis. Course topics include programming (python), geocomputing skills, automating GIS tasks, and developing custom solutions. Additional course topics focus on web mapping, database management, advanced spatial analysis in R, environmental modeling, and the development of AI-driven geospatial applications.
- Geospatial technologies and applications training: This category emphasizes the application of emerging advanced technologies such as drones, 3D/CAD systems, advanced GPS, and server/infrastructure management. Course topics include drone survey and mapping techniques, high-resolution data acquisition and monitoring, and the integration of geospatial AI with drone technology for applications like real-time mapping and environmental analysis.
- Immersive final research project: During the capstone experience, students integrate their knowledge and skills into real-world spatial research projects. Collaborating with faculty across campus, they contribute to ongoing and future projects in research areas in which UCSC is an established leader. This includes:
- ecological and biological conservation, coastal science and policy, climate change, ecological modeling, animal ecology, restoration ecology, remote sensing, geomorphology;
- environmental justice, political ecology, marine and coastal law and policy, climate change adaptation and mitigation, agroecology;
- machine learning, embedded systems, agricultural technology, autonomous vehicles, drones, environmental sensors;
- archaeology, data analytics and visualization, digital humanities, urban sociology, and historical cartography.
- Specific course descriptions and planners
- GISTAR staff and affiliated faculty
- GISTAR Career Pathways
Application requirements
Application requirements may be found via the online application. The GRE or GMAT is not required. Classes are sequential. We admit only for the fall quarter. Visit the Registrar to see student fee information for CA residents and non-residents.
Students currently employed in related fields who are seeking additional professional training and those from underrepresented and diverse racial, ethnic, cultural, socioeconomic, and disciplinary backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Prior degree requirements
- A bachelor’s degree in environmental studies, environmental sciences, earth sciences, urban planning, geography, sociology, remote sensing, computer engineering, or a related discipline, with at least one upper-division course in geospatial techniques (e.g., geographic information science, cartography, and/or remote sensing); OR
- A bachelor’s degree in a related discipline with a minimum of one year of professional experience in a field that directly applies geospatial technologies.
The GISTAR Master's degree is recognized as a STEM-designated program by the U.S. government. This designation allows graduates of the GISTAR program to qualify for a 24-month extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT), enabling international students to gain practical experience applying geospatial technologies, such as GIS, remote sensing, and spatial analysis, in real-world settings. With the GISTAR degree, students can extend the standard 12-month OPT by an additional 24 months, providing ample opportunities to leverage their geospatial skills across various sectors in the U.S. workforce. For more details on the STEM extension and eligibility, international students should contact the UCSC International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS).
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