MS in Geoinformatics and Geospatial Intelligence

The new MS program in geoinformatics and geospatial intelligence addresses the emerging demand for scientists trained in the collection, organization, analysis, and dissemination of information about physical features, man-made structures, moving objects, people, and events that are geo-referenced or geo-located. This program focuses primarily on the computational approaches that support the synthesis and analysis of diverse types of data, in order to identify and monitor complex events and phenomena that manifest themselves over space and time. While geospatial intelligence has a strong Department of Defense connotation, the principles behind it have a significant dual use potential, addressing the needs of a broader audience, ranging for example from intelligent navigation in urban spaces to emergency response systems for natural and man-made disasters.

The MS program in geoinformatics and geospatial intelligence is designed to expose students to fundamental theoretical principles and practical applications involving:

Geographic Information Science
Digital image analysis as it applies to geoinformatics and geospatial intelligence
Computational principles for geoinformatics and intelligence

The curriculum structure of the program reflects these three educational components. The GEOI MS degree requires a minimum of 33 credits, including a 3-credit MS thesis. See Guidelines.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the MS program in geoinformatics and geospatial intelligence should hold a BA or BS degree in a discipline related to the program’s theme from an accredited university, with a minimum GPA of 3.00, including courses in differential and integral calculus. A working knowledge of a computer programming language is a plus. When the background of an individual student does not meet the program’s requirements, remedial or preparatory courses tailored to student’s needs may be recommended. Applicants must submit a completed GMU graduate application, along with official transcripts, resume, VA domicile classification form (when applicable), official GRE score reports, and TOEFL scores if they are foreign nationals.

Degree Requirements

The GI MS degree requires 33 credit hours, comprising 10 courses plus a 3-credit MS thesis. During the semester prior to the semester the student plans to register for MS Thesis credits (799), the student will need to establish a Thesis Committee and prepare and defend the Thesis Proposal. See Guidelines.

The courses include 7 mandatory core courses and 3 electives to be selected from a list of offerings (and approved by the program coordinator).