Best Online Geographic Information Systems Bachelor’s Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Arizona State University is a public research university founded in 1885. This reputable institution has numerous distance learning programs for working professionals. It offers more than 200 programs online and in person.

Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science

This online program covers geographic information systems, computer programming, and statistical analysis. It is a hands-on program and aims to help students gain a foundational understanding of GIS applications and how they affect society and environmental issues.

Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition: $561-$661/credit hour
• Required Credits: 120 credits
• Program Length: 10 terms at 6 to 8 credits per term
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 24%

Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0 in competency courses
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $70
• Minimum Education: High school diploma
• Other Requirements: Transcripts, precalculus or college-level algebra

Applying to Arizona State University

1. Complete online application
2. Pay the application fee
3. Submit transcripts (optional)
4. Check the application status online
5. Complete FAFSA application

Founded in 1890, this public research university is now known for its liberal arts, sports, fitness, criminal Justice, and psychology programs. North Carolina A&T State University has an average acceptance rate and is quite affordable for students.

Bachelor of Science in Geomatics

This online program is ideal for working professionals who want to become licensed professionals. It requires 124 credits to complete and covers topics like photogrammetry, forensic surveying, geographic information systems, hydrography, construction, manufacturing, and traditional boundary surveying.

Bachelor of Science in Geomatics Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
• Tuition: $120/credit hour (in-state); $576/credit hour (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 124 credits
• Program Length: 8 semesters at 14 to 15 credits per semester
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 52%

Bachelor of Science in Geomatics Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.7
• Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT
• Application Fee: $60
• Minimum Education: High school diploma
• Other Requirements:
  • Transcripts
  • English (4 units)
  • Math (4 units)
  • Science (3 units)
  • Social Studies (2 units)
  • Foreign Language (2 units)

Applying to North Carolina A&T State University

1. Apply on either Common App or Aggie Admissions Portal
2. Submit transcripts
3. Submit SAT/ACT scores (optional)
4. Pay the application fee
5. Check status

Old Dominion University is known for its multidisciplinary composition, psychology, criminology, and rhetoric programs. The public research university is also one of the largest in Virginia.

Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems

The GIS program at Old Dominion University offers three main concentrations for students. They include environment and resources, urban planning and emergency management, and geographic information systems.

The 120-credit program offers a broad understanding of the interrelationships between people and the environment. The program is hands-on and teaches communication and critical analytic skills. On completion, students get a bachelor of science or arts, depending on their chosen concentration.

Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
• Tuition: $374/credit (in-state); $407/credit (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 120 credits
• Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 53%

Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems Admission Requirements

• GPA: None stated
• Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT optional
• Application Fee: $50
• Minimum Education: High school diploma
• Other Requirements: Letters of recommendation, activity resume, and personal statement (recommended)

Applying to Old Dominion University

1. Apply online by creating an account
2. Pay application fees
3. Submit supporting documents
4. Check application status

This public land grant university is known for its world-class graduate and undergraduate degrees in both online and in-person programs. Ohio State University is also home to the Wexner Medical Center.

Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science

This online program offers a GIS and geography major with spatial analysis specialization. It requires 121 credits to complete, and students learn to use software for geographic information analysis and management. The curriculum also covers tools and methods needed to thrive in the field.

The coursework involves technical mathematics, surveying and measurements, statistics, graphics, and remote sensing. It prepares students to qualify for professional certification such as GIS Professional from the GIS Certification Institute.

Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition: $286/per credit
• Required Credits: 121 credits
• Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 to 16 credits per semester
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 32%

Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0 for students without a college-ready test score
• Standardized Tests: ACT/SAT or ACCUPLACER
• Application Fee: $60
• Minimum Education: High school diploma
• Other Requirements: Transcripts

Applying to Ohio State University

1. Test early
2. Apply on the Common App
3. Submit supporting documents
4. Check application status

Oregon State University is a public institution and one of the largest public research universities in the state. It is known for its computer science, mechanical engineering, business administration and management, psychology and human development, and family studies programs.

Bachelor of Science in Geography and Geospatial Science

This online program requires 180 credits to complete. Coursework focuses on physical geography, geospatial analysis, geovisual analytics, and geovisualization and cartography. To enhance global awareness, students learn about climate and society, water, resources, and hazards.

Bachelor of Science in Geography and Geospatial Science Overview

• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Tuition: $331/credit
• Required Credits: 180 credits
• Program Length: 16 terms at 11 to 12 credits per term
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 69%

Bachelor of Science in Geography and Geospatial Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0 preferred
• Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT (optional)
• Application Fee: $40
• Minimum Education: High school diploma
• Other Requirements: Preferred subject area course with C- or above
  • English (4 units)
  • Math (3 units)
  • Social studies (3 units)
  • Science (3 units)
  • Foreign language (2 units)
  • Personal statement

Applying to Oregon State University

1. Apply online
2. Send transcripts
3. Submit other required documents
4. Check application status

Southern New Hampshire University is a nonprofit institution and offers some of the cheapest online tuition fees. Founded in 1932, some of its most common programs today include general studies, registered nursing, business administration, and healthcare administration management.

Bachelor of Science in Geoscience

This program uses instructor-led lab courses to help participants gain hands-on experience. It offers a foundation in physical sciences such as earth systems science, geology, geography, physics, and chemistry. Students learn to use geoscience data to solve problems. They develop skills in public policies, effective environmental protection, and resource management.

Students can choose their direction of study in this flexible program and can tailor it by taking elective courses or adding a concentration. Options available to students include fiscal management, public administration, and public health.

Bachelor of Science in Geoscience Overview

• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
• Tuition: $320 per credit
• Required Credits: 120 credits
• Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 37%

Bachelor of Science in Geoscience Admission Requirements

• GPA: 2.00 (provisional acceptance), 2.75 (full acceptance)
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $0
• Minimum Education: High school diploma
• Other Requirements: Transcripts

Applying to Southern New Hampshire University

1. Apply for free online
2. Fill out the transcript release form
3. Work with admission counselors
4. Explore financial aid options
5. Check application status

University of Arizona is a public land grant research institution. It has a high acceptance rate and is a top global university. The school offers distance learning and in-person learning programs at undergraduate and graduate levels.

Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems Technology (GIST)

This online program covers applied GIS and professional GIS for students who want to work in the field. It is a hands-on program that includes project-based coursework and a senior capstone project that gives students professional skills for the job market. Topics in this program include cartography, GIS programming, and web and mobile applications.

Bachelor of Science Geographic Information Systems Technology (GIST) Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition: $525/credit
• Required Credits: 120 credits
• Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 65%

Bachelor of Science Geographic Information Systems Technology (GIST) Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $90
• Minimum Education: High school diploma
• Other Requirements: Transcripts

Applying to University of Arizona

1. Create account
2. Apply online and fill out the application
3. Submit transcripts
4. Apply for financial aid (if applicable)
5. Check status

University of Maine at Machias is an annex of University of Maine. The public institution is known for its relatively high acceptance rate. University of Maine at Machias offers graduate and undergraduate programs for in-person and distance learning students.

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Geographic Information Science

This online program requires 120 credits to complete. The curriculum is interdisciplinary and it incorporates topics like data acquisition, geospatial technology, geographic inquiry, environmental studies, data science, design, and programming. Since it is a hands-on program, students work on projects and learn soft skills such as ethics, professional communication, critical thinking, and project management.

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Geographic Information Science Overview

• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
• Tuition: $289/credit (in-state); $361/credit (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 120 credits
• Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 56%

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Geographic Information Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: 2.0
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $0
• Minimum Education: High school diploma
• Other Requirements:
  • Transcripts
  • Recommendation letter (optional)
  • Personal essay (optional)
  • Official copies of SAT/ACT scores (optional)

Applying to University of Maine at Machias

1. Complete the application online
2. A counselor will contact you if more documentation is needed
3. Submit transcripts
4. Complete FAFSA application
5. Track application

Founded in 1965, this small private institution prides itself as the best environmental college in the world. Unity College offers undergraduate and graduate degrees online and in person. Students also have the option of hybrid learning.

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Geospatial Technologies

This program prepares students to solve environmental problems in the world today and to apply geospatial technologies in the workforce. Students acquire earth-related data and use it in analyzing, modeling, simulating, and visualizing.

The program has different concentrations, and students can choose renewable energy, environmental GIS, wildlife ecology, sustainable business, and emergency disaster management. To complete this degree, students must work on a senior capstone project. This project enables them to replicate the skills they have learned during the program.

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Geospatial Technologies Overview

• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
• Tuition: $470 per credit
• Required Credits: 120 credits
• Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: Not stated

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Geospatial Technologies Admission Requirements

• GPA: 2.0
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $0
• Minimum Education: High school diploma
• Other Requirements: Letters of recommendation

Applying to Unity College

1. Fill out online the application
2. Follow prompts

Western Illinois University is a public institution known for its agriculture, psychology, liberal arts and sciences, and criminal justice programs. It offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs both online and in person.

Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science

Students can choose their concentration in geospatial science, geoenvironmental and planning, or remote sensing. The coursework covers skill development, theoretical understanding, and problem-solving of real-world issues. It is a hands-on program that gives students the technical skills they need for the job market.

Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition: $308/credit (in-state); $462/credit (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 120 credits
• Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 46%

Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: 2.75
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $30
• Minimum Education: High school diploma
• Other Requirements:
  • Transcripts
  • English (4 years)
  • Social studies (3 years)
  • Math (3 years)
  • Science (3 years)
  • Miscellaneous (2 years)

Applying to Western Illinois University

1. Create an account and apply online
2. Pay the application fee
3. Submit transcripts and self-reported test scores
4. Check the application status

Epidemiologists are responsible for designing, implementing, and analyzing the geographic spread of diseases. They look at patterns and trends of diseases and work alongside others to find ways to contain the spread of disease. These experts often work on pandemics such as the COVID-19.

• Average Salary: $67,702
• Job Outlook: 30% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 7,800
• Highest-Paying States: Washington, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania

Geographic information systems engineers manage spatial databases for urban planning projects. They create maps and work with different types of organizations. To some extent, GIS engineers are cartographers and may require a solid background in programming and computer science.

• Average Salary: $62,058
• Job Outlook: 1% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 1,600
• Highest-Paying States: Massachusetts, Maryland, California, Colorado, Pennsylvania

Geographic information systems analysts are mapmakers who create digital presentations with technology. They work on geographical and spatial information and build databases to create digital maps. These experts also compile data to determine routes to track wildlife patterns.

• Average Salary: $56,749
• Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 13,200
• Highest-Paying States: Washington DC, California, Alaska, New Jersey, Maryland

GIS specialists are responsible for designing, building, and implementing databases and systems to access geospatial data. The experts also analyze the data with mapping software and design digital maps with geospatial data.

• Average Salary: $55,923
• Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 13,200
• Highest-Paying States: Washington DC, California, Alaska, New Jersey, Maryland

Conservationists are responsible for managing natural habitats such as rangelands, parks, and forests. It is a green career, involving the use, conservation, and protection of the environment. Conservationists can specialize in water or soil and are mostly employed by the federal government or private landowners.

• Average Salary: $44,667
• Job Outlook: 7% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 39,000
• Highest-Paying States: Minnesota, Alaska, Washington DC, Hawaii, Massachusetts