GIST Graduate Academic Information

To meet the challenges of academic diversity and changing technology, colleges and universities nation-wide are developing new courses of study related to GIS. Currently, "GIS curricula follow one of two patterns or models. The first model offers degrees specifically in GIS Science …focusing on the disciplinary nature of geo-technologies. The second model integrates GIS into existing degree programs as an application tool and an important methodological approach drawing on theory from a particular discipline” (University of Colorado Denver 2006:para. 5).

The Geospatial Information Science and Technology program at NC State University is multi-faceted and entirely inter-disciplinary to meet both of these models. We plan to offer two professional masters degrees: 1) a Master of Geospatial Information Science and Technology and, 2) a Master of Natural Resources with a Spatial Information Science Technical Option. We also have a Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science and Technology which provides the students with both a professional credential and a possible start on a master's degree. In addition we offer two graduate minors, one in GIST and one in Remote Sensing. All of these programs are overseen by an interdisciplinary faculty representing 8 different Colleges and 18 Departments.

The Graduate Certificate and the Master of Natural Resources Degree are already in place. The new degree (i.e., the Master of Geospatial Information Science and Technology) will launch in the 2009-2010 academic year. The MGIS&T degree will hopefully be associated with the Professional Science Masters Degree national program affording students an exceptional opportunity to directly work with companies and agencies in robust hands-on projects and experiences. As part of that effort an industry/government advisory board (e.g., SAS, ESRI, USGS, Hazen and Sawer, State of North Carolina, etc.) is being developed to assist with program design and implementation. Students wishing to start immediately can enroll now in the Certificate Program courses all of which will transfer into the degree program.

The Graduate Certificate is currently available both on-campus and through distance education. The MGIS&T degree will also be available in both modes.