Best Geography Programs for GeoSpatial Technology

Geospatial technology represents one of the fastest-growing fields in geography, combining cutting-edge mapping technologies with advanced spatial analysis to solve complex real-world problems.

From environmental monitoring and urban planning to disaster response and climate change research, geospatial professionals use Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and spatial data analytics to transform raw geographic data into actionable insights. The demand for skilled geospatial analysts has surged across government agencies, environmental consulting firms, technology companies, and research institutions, making specialized education in this field more valuable than ever.

Our analysis below examines the top programs across the United States, evaluating their academic strengths, financial value, and unique features to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals and learning preferences.

2026 Best Geography Programs for Geospatial Technology

At geographydegrees.org, we help you find the best geography programs for geospatial technology. Our team carefully reviews schools to highlight those that excel in teaching mapping, GIS, and remote sensing skills. We focus on programs that offer hands-on learning and strong career support. You can trust our rankings because we base them on real data and expert insights. For details on how we create these rankings, check out our methodology at https://www.geographydegrees.org/ranking-methodology/. Start exploring today to find a program that fits your goals in this exciting field.
#1

University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

Norman, OK - Public 4-Year - ou.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Geography and Environmental Sustainability

Concentration: Geospatial Technologies - Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Science in Geography and Environmental Sustainability with a Geospatial Technologies concentration at the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus develops advanced spatial analysis skills for leadership in research and policy. Offering both thesis and non-thesis options, this campus-based program integrates theory with practical applications under expert faculty guidance. Admission requires a 3.0 undergraduate GPA but has no specific prerequisites, welcoming diverse academic backgrounds. Designed for completion in about two years, it prepares graduates for careers in environmental management and urban planning. No entrance exam is required for this master's program.

  • Concentration in Geospatial Technologies.
  • Thesis and non-thesis options.
  • 30-36 semester hours required.
  • 3.0 undergraduate GPA for admission.
  • No specific prerequisites.
  • Diverse academic backgrounds welcome.
  • Completion in about two years.
  • Focus on spatial analysis.
  • Prepares for leadership in research.
  • Blends theory with practical applications.

Master's - Master of Science in Geography and Environmental Sustainability with a concentration in Geospatial Technologies

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Oklahoma's online Master of Science in Geography and Environmental Sustainability focuses on Geospatial Technologies, training students to apply GIS and remote sensing for decision-making in government, environment, and business. This flexible 33-credit program spans 21+ months, featuring rolling admissions and starts in Fall and Spring. Admission is based on a competitive GPA, resume, and transcripts, with no entrance exam required. Costing $32,505, it includes financial aid options and targets working professionals, leading to strong career outcomes in a growing field.

  • Online program
  • 21+ months duration
  • 11 courses
  • 33 credit hours
  • $985 per credit hour
  • Flexible for professionals
  • Focus on GIS technologies
  • Rolling admissions
  • Fall and Spring starts
  • Competitive GPA required
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

California State University-Long Beach

Long Beach, CA - Public 4-Year - csulb.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Geography

Concentration: Geospatial - Campus Based - Visit Website

The Bachelor of Science in Geography with a Geospatial concentration at California State University-Long Beach develops expertise in spatial data analysis and human-environment dynamics through a curriculum integrating digital cartography, GIS programming, and remote sensing. This campus-based program emphasizes hands-on learning, preparing graduates for roles in urban planning and environmental management. Admission requires a strong academic record with specific prerequisites and an ACT or SAT entrance exam, as it is a bachelor's program. Costs are competitive with financial aid available, ensuring accessibility for students pursuing geospatial careers.

  • Campus-based program.
  • Focus on Geospatial concentration.
  • Hands-on learning experiences.
  • Comprehensive geospatial methodologies.
  • Competitive costs with financial aid.
  • Courses in digital cartography.
  • GIS programming included.
  • Remote sensing courses.
  • Prepares for urban planning careers.
  • Environmental management career paths.

Master's - Master of Arts in Geography

Concentration: Geospatial Science - Campus Based - Visit Website

California State University-Long Beach's Master of Arts in Geography with a Geospatial Science concentration focuses on advanced research and practical applications, culminating in a thesis. The program prepares students for careers in public planning, environmental management, and private consulting by blending theory with skills in geospatial analysis. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, a bachelor's degree in geography or a related field, a personal statement, writing sample, and letters of recommendation. No entrance exam is mentioned as required, aligning with typical master's programs that may not mandate exams like the GRE.

  • Concentration in Geospatial Science
  • Research-based thesis required
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • Campus-based program
  • Prepares for public and private sector careers
  • Personal statement and writing sample required
  • Letters of recommendation needed
  • Focus on environmental and physical geography
  • Opportunities for teaching assistantships
  • Competitive funding available
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus

Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - ucdenver.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Geography and Geospatial Science

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Arts in Applied Geography and Geospatial Science at University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus prepares students to address social and environmental challenges through geospatial science. This STEM-designated hybrid program combines theoretical knowledge with practical GIS, remote sensing, and spatial statistics skills. Students participate in hands-on research and community engagement projects, developing professional expertise for this rapidly growing field. WICHE state residents may qualify for in-state tuition, enhancing affordability. The program requires meeting graduate standards with a February 1 priority deadline. No entrance exam is specified in the provided information.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • Focus on geospatial science.
  • STEM-designated.
  • Hands-on research projects.
  • Community engagement focus.
  • WICHE in-state tuition eligible.
  • Priority deadline February 1.
  • No yearly reapplication for WICHE.

Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Geography and Geospatial Science

Concentration: Environmental Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus offers a Master of Arts in Applied Geography and Geospatial Science with an Environmental Health concentration. This STEM-designated hybrid program focuses on human-environment interactions, equipping students with GIS, remote sensing, and spatial statistics skills to tackle environmental and social issues. Ideal for sustainability and environmental management careers, it includes community engagement and faculty-led research. WICHE state residents benefit from in-state tuition, and applications have a February 1 priority deadline. A bachelor's degree is required for admission, with no entrance exam mentioned in the data.

  • STEM-designated program
  • Focus on Environmental Health
  • Hybrid learning format
  • GIS and remote sensing skills
  • Priority deadline February 1
  • WICHE states eligible for in-state tuition
  • Community engagement projects
  • Faculty-led research opportunities
  • Professional development focus
  • Spatial statistics training

Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Geography and Geospatial Science

Concentration: Climate Change - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on Climate Change, the Master of Arts in Applied Geography and Geospatial Science at University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus addresses human-environment dynamics through geospatial science. This STEM-designated hybrid program develops GIS and data analysis skills via hands-on research and community projects, preparing graduates for leadership in environmental solutions. WICHE state residents may receive in-state tuition, and rolling admissions allow flexible application timing. A bachelor's degree is required, but no entrance exam is indicated in the provided details.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Focus on Climate Change
  • STEM-designated
  • Geospatial science skills
  • Hands-on research projects
  • Community engagement
  • WICHE in-state tuition
  • Rolling admissions
  • Bachelor's degree required
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

Knoxville, TN - Public 4-Year - utk.edu

Bachelor's - Geography Major, BA

Concentration: Geospatial Science and Technology - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville's Geospatial Science and Technology concentration within its Geography BA program provides comprehensive training in GIS technology, emphasizing practical applications in natural resource management and disaster response. Students gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools, blending theory with real-world projects to prepare for technical careers. This campus-based program requires meeting standard undergraduate admission criteria, including ACT or SAT scores. As a military-friendly institution, it offers a robust education aligned with UTK's tuition structure, making it an excellent choice for aspiring geospatial professionals seeking focused, applicable skills.

  • Focus on GIS technology
  • Hands-on experience
  • Campus-based program
  • Prepares for technical careers
  • Undergraduate admission requirements
#5

Michigan State University

East Lansing, MI - Public 4-Year - msu.edu

Bachelor's - Geography

Concentration: Earth Observation and Geospatial Analytics - Campus Based - Visit Website

Michigan State University's Bachelor of Science in Geography with an Earth Observation and Geospatial Analytics concentration immerses students in advanced GIS, remote sensing, and spatial data analytics to tackle environmental and societal issues. This campus-based program integrates natural and social sciences, offering hands-on experience in analyzing geospatial data for careers across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Admission requires a minimum 2.0 GPA in GEO courses, and as a bachelor's program, it necessitates ACT or SAT scores for entry. Emphasizing a collaborative environment, it prepares graduates for diverse roles in geospatial technology without requiring additional entrance exams beyond standard undergraduate criteria.

  • Bachelor of Science degree.
  • Concentration in Earth Observation.
  • Campus-based program.
  • Focus on GIS and remote sensing.
  • Prepares for diverse career paths.
  • Minimum 2.0 GPA required.
  • Hands-on spatial data analysis.
  • Blends natural and social sciences.
  • Financial aid options available.
  • Collaborative learning environment.
#6

University of Maryland-College Park

College Park, MD - Public 4-Year - umd.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Geographical Sciences: Geospatial Data Science

Concentration: Geospatial Data Science - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Maryland-College Park's Bachelor of Science in Geographical Sciences with a Geospatial Data Science concentration immerses students in acquiring, managing, and analyzing geographic data. This on-campus program emphasizes advanced computer training in remote sensing, spatial analysis, and GIS software, preparing graduates for careers in environmental monitoring, disaster assessment, military intelligence, social justice, and cartography. The curriculum blends technical skills with environmental understanding to address complex spatial challenges globally. As a bachelor's program, it requires ACT or SAT entrance exams. Military-friendly options are available, enhancing accessibility for service members.

  • Technical skills in geospatial data processing
  • Remote sensing and GIS software training
  • Versatile career preparation
  • Environmental and social process understanding
  • Global problem-solving approach
#7

Towson University

Towson, MD - Public 4-Year - towson.edu

Bachelor's - Major in Geography and Environmental Planning

Concentration: Geospatial Technologies - Campus Based - Visit Website

Towson University's Geography and Environmental Planning major with a Geospatial Technologies concentration immerses students in GIS, remote sensing, and cartography through hands-on learning. The curriculum balances human and physical geography with practical applications for environmental analysis and urban planning. Core courses and customizable electives allow students to align studies with career aspirations. As a bachelor's-level campus program, admission requires introductory geography coursework; no ACT or SAT is specified. Maryland state tuition rates apply, with scholarship opportunities. Graduates are well-prepared for dynamic roles in the geospatial field, supported by honors societies and club activities.

  • Concentration in Geospatial Technologies
  • Hands-on GIS and remote sensing
  • Flexible elective courses
  • Scholarships for majors
  • Gamma Theta Upsilon honor society
  • Geography Club activities
  • Accelerated BS/MS option
  • Campus-based program
  • Core courses in geography
  • Career-focused electives
#8

Jacksonville State University

Jacksonville, AL - Public 4-Year - jsu.edu

Bachelor's - Geography - Geospatial Technology

Concentration: Geospatial Technology - Campus Based - Visit Website

Jacksonville State University's B.S. in Geography with a Geospatial Technology concentration prepares students for high-growth careers like Geospatial Analysts and Environmental Planners, with entry-level salaries around $40,000 in a field projected to grow 20% over two decades. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on campus learning in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and GPS technology, enabling students to analyze and visualize geographic data effectively. Undergraduate admissions require standard application materials, including ACT or SAT entrance exams.

  • B.S. in Geography
  • Geospatial Technology concentration
  • Campus-based program
  • Entry-level salary $40,000
  • 20% field growth rate
  • Covers GIS, remote sensing
  • Prepares for diverse careers
  • Hands-on learning experiences
  • Undergraduate admissions required
#9

Northern Arizona University

Flagstaff, AZ - Public 4-Year - nau.edu

Bachelor's - Geography, Environment and Society

Concentration: Geospatial Technologies - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Northern Arizona University's Bachelor of Science in Geography, Environment, and Society with a concentration in Geospatial Technologies combines social, physical, and technological studies in a hybrid format. Students gain skills in spatial data analysis to address urban growth and environmental challenges, with opportunities for fieldwork and study abroad. The program requires 120 units, including general studies, and admission requires a minimum GPA and ACT or SAT entrance exam. Focused on sustainable community planning and environmental management, it prepares graduates for careers making a difference in both urban and natural settings.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Focus on Geospatial Technologies
  • 120 units for completion
  • Fieldwork and study abroad options
  • Financial aid available
  • Minimum GPA required for admission
  • General studies included
  • Sustainable community planning focus
  • Environmental management skills
  • Dynamic blend of studies
#10

University of Louisville

Louisville, KY - Public 4-Year - louisville.edu

Bachelor's - Applied Geography

Concentration: Geospatial Technologies - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Louisville's Applied Geography BS with a Geospatial Technologies concentration provides comprehensive training in GIS, remote sensing, and spatial data analysis. Students develop practical skills through hands-on experience with programming, unoccupied aerial systems, and advanced mapping techniques. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary applications in environmental planning, urban development, and data science, preparing graduates for technology-driven careers. As a bachelor's program, it requires ACT or SAT entrance exams. Key features include senior thesis research opportunities and multiple specialization options within geospatial technology.

  • Hands-on geospatial technology training
  • Advanced GIS and remote sensing focus
  • Programming for spatial data analysis
  • Unoccupied aerial systems applications
  • Interdisciplinary skill development
  • Advanced geographic information systems courses
  • Multiple specialization options
  • Senior thesis research opportunity
#11

Arizona State University

Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu

Master's - Geography, MA

Concentration: Computational Spatial Science - Campus Based - Visit Website

Arizona State University's MA in Geography with a Computational Spatial Science concentration provides advanced training in geospatial technology through 30 credit hours, including thesis or capstone options. The program emphasizes innovative coursework in computational methods, earth systems, and GIS, supported by state-of-the-art research centers and renowned faculty. Students gain skills for careers in environmental science, geospatial analysis, and doctoral studies, with flexible on-campus or online formats. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, 3.00 GPA, personal statement, resume, and one letter of recommendation. No entrance exam is specified.

  • 30 credit hours required
  • Thesis or capstone option
  • Focus on Computational Spatial Science
  • On campus or online
  • Minimum GPA 3.00 for admission
  • Personal statement required
  • One letter of recommendation
  • Research opportunities available
  • Flexible plan of study
  • Accelerated program options
#12

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR - Public 4-Year - oregonstate.edu

Master's - Geography and Geospatial Science

Online Learning - Visit Website

Oregon State University's online M.S. in Geography and Geospatial Science integrates spatial data analysis with Earth system science to address global issues such as climate change and public health. Offered by the College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences, this 45-credit program costs $571 per credit and is tailored for working professionals, featuring flexible start terms three times annually without a thesis requirement. No entrance exam is specified for this master's-level program, emphasizing accessibility and practical application in geospatial technology.

  • Online delivery.
  • $571 per credit.
  • 45 credits required.
  • No thesis needed.
  • Start terms three times a year.
  • Nonresident students pay no extra.
  • Part of College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences.
  • Focus on global challenges.
  • Flexible for working professionals.
  • Blends geography with geospatial science.
#13

University of Central Arkansas

Conway, AR - Public 4-Year - uca.edu

Bachelor's - Geography

Concentration: Geospatial Technology - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Central Arkansas' Geography program with a Geospatial Technology concentration immerses students in spatial analysis and environmental planning through hands-on campus learning. This bachelor's-level program requires a high school diploma or equivalent with specific prerequisites but does not mandate ACT or SAT scores for admission. Students develop expertise in GIS, remote sensing, and environmental systems, applying these skills across government, private, and nonprofit sectors. Competitive tuition and financial aid options enhance accessibility. The curriculum emphasizes practical experience, preparing graduates for diverse careers in geospatial technology with a focus on real-world environmental challenges.

  • Concentration in Geospatial Technology.
  • Campus-based learning environment.
  • Competitive tuition costs.
  • Financial aid options available.
  • Skills in GIS and remote sensing.
  • Prepares for diverse career paths.
  • Hands-on learning approach.
  • Focus on environmental planning.
#14

Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, TX - Public 4-Year - shsu.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science, Major Geography

Concentration: Geo-spatial Information Sciences - Campus Based - Visit Website

Sam Houston State University's Bachelor of Science in Geography with a Geo-spatial Information Sciences concentration provides hands-on training in GIS programming, remote sensing, and map design. Students develop skills in environmental analysis, urban planning, and sustainability through real-world projects. The 120-credit curriculum emphasizes statistical analysis, technical writing, and data interpretation, preparing graduates for technology-driven geography careers. Admission requires meeting general university requirements, including math and science prerequisites, and typically requires ACT or SAT scores for bachelor's level entry.

  • BS in Geography
  • Geo-spatial Information Sciences concentration
  • Campus-based program
  • 120 credit hours
  • Includes GIS programming
  • Remote sensing coursework
  • Hands-on projects
  • Focus on sustainability
  • Prepares for environmental careers
  • Urban planning skills
#15

California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt

Arcata, CA - Public 4-Year - humboldt.edu

Bachelor's - Geography, B.A.

Concentration: Geospatial Systems - Campus Based - Visit Website

California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt's Geography, B.A. with a Geospatial Systems concentration immerses students in hands-on geospatial technology applications using advanced labs and the diverse North Coast environment. This program uniquely integrates physical and cultural geography with professional development through internships, conferences, and applied research. Graduates gain skills for careers in urban planning, environmental management, and GIS coordination, while exploring global issues like climate change. Admission requires a standard CSU application and SAT or ACT scores, with tuition at CSU rates. The supportive community emphasizes real-world problem-solving in geospatial contexts.

  • Concentration in Geospatial Systems.
  • Hands-on learning in labs.
  • Diverse North Coast landscapes.
  • Professional development opportunities.
  • Prepares for urban planning careers.
  • Focus on GIS coordination.
  • Standard CSU application required.
  • CSU tuition rates apply.
  • Supportive community environment.
  • Explores global climate issues.
#16

Western Colorado University

Gunnison, CO - Public 4-Year - western.edu

Bachelor's - Geography & Geospatial Analysis

Campus Based - Visit Website

Western Colorado University's Geography & Geospatial Analysis program immerses students in landscape analysis and human-environment interactions using advanced GIS and mapping technologies. Located in Gunnison Valley, it emphasizes hands-on fieldwork and spatial data analysis, preparing graduates for careers in urban planning, environmental research, and government sectors. The program includes a GIS certificate and requires a minimum of 21 credits, offering flexible career pathways without requiring entrance exams for this bachelor's level program.

  • Minor that pairs with any degree
  • Minimum 21 credits required
  • Includes GIS certificate
  • Multiple career pathway options
  • Hands-on fieldwork opportunities
*U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics.

2026 Most Affordable Geography Programs in Geospatial Techn

This table shows the most affordable geography programs in geospatial technology for 2026. It includes schools offering Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate degrees. You can find programs across different states and regions, including larger cities. Use the links below to explore more details about each program and see how they fit your needs.
University of Central Arkansas
  • Concentration in Geospatial Technology.
  • Campus-based learning environment.
  • Competitive tuition costs.
  • Financial aid options available.
  • Skills in GIS and remote sensing.
  • Prepares for diverse career paths.
  • Hands-on learning approach.
  • Focus on environmental planning.
  • $8,100 - $12,100 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $13,800 - $20,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
  • Hybrid program format
  • Focus on Climate Change
  • STEM-designated
  • Geospatial science skills
  • Hands-on research projects
  • Community engagement
  • WICHE in-state tuition
  • Rolling admissions
  • $7,200 - $10,700 (Graduate In-State)
  • $20,800 - $31,300 (Graduate Non-Resident)
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus
  • Online program
  • 21+ months duration
  • 11 courses
  • 33 credit hours
  • $985 per credit hour
  • Flexible for professionals
  • Focus on GIS technologies
  • Rolling admissions
  • $7,300 - $10,900 (Graduate In-State)
  • $20,300 - $30,400 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*Source: IPEDS 2023 data files, National Center for Education Statistics.

Choosing the Right School for You: Geospatial Technology Geography Programs

Program Overview Comparison

California State University-Long Beach (#1)

  • Degrees: BS in Geography – Geospatial, MA in Geography – Geospatial Science
  • Format: Campus-based with research emphasis
  • Strength: Comprehensive undergraduate and graduate pathways
  • Focus: Digital cartography, GIS programming, remote sensing

University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus (#2)

  • Degree: MS in Geography and Environmental Sustainability – Geospatial Technologies
  • Format: Campus-based and online options
  • Strength: Flexible delivery with professional focus
  • Timeline: 21-month online program, $985 per credit hour

University of Colorado Denver (#3)

  • Degree: MA in Applied Geography and Geospatial Science
  • Concentrations: Environmental Health, Climate Change
  • Format: Hybrid program (online and campus)
  • Strength: STEM-designated with WICHE tuition benefits

Towson University (#4)

  • Degree: BA in Geography and Environmental Planning – Geospatial Technologies
  • Format: Campus-based with hands-on focus
  • Strength: Accelerated BS/MS pathway, honor society opportunities
  • Features: Geography Club, scholarships for majors

University of Tennessee-Knoxville (#5)

  • Degree: BA in Geography – Geospatial Science and Technology
  • Format: Campus-based, military-friendly
  • Strength: Hands-on GIS applications and spatial analysis
  • Focus: Natural resource management, emergency response

Academic Strengths & Specializations

California State University-Long Beach – Comprehensive Excellence

  • Dual pathway options – undergraduate and graduate programs in geospatial science
  • Research emphasis – thesis-required MA program with advanced research capabilities
  • Technology integration – digital cartography, GIS programming, remote sensing
  • Career preparation – environmental management, urban planning, private consulting
  • Teaching assistantships – competitive funding opportunities
  • Prerequisites managed – specific course requirements with academic support
  • 3.0 GPA requirement – maintains program quality standards

University of Oklahoma – Professional Flexibility

  • Dual delivery formats – campus-based and online program options
  • Working professional focus – 21-month timeline with flexible scheduling
  • No prerequisites – welcomes diverse academic backgrounds
  • Environmental integration – sustainability emphasis throughout curriculum
  • Competitive pricing – transparent $985 per credit hour online tuition
  • Rolling admissions – flexible application timeline
  • Leadership preparation – positions graduates for management roles

University of Colorado Denver – Applied Innovation

  • STEM designation – enhanced career prospects and potential visa benefits
  • Hybrid format – combines online flexibility with campus resources
  • Specialized concentrations – Environmental Health and Climate Change focus
  • Community engagement – hands-on research projects with real-world applications
  • WICHE benefits – potential in-state tuition for qualifying western states
  • Research integration – faculty-led research opportunities
  • February 1 priority deadline – structured admission timeline

Towson University – Career Integration

  • Accelerated pathway – BS/MS option for faster degree completion
  • Honor society access – Gamma Theta Upsilon membership opportunities
  • Student organizations – Geography Club for networking and professional development
  • Scholarship support – dedicated funding for geography majors
  • Hands-on emphasis – practical GIS and remote sensing training
  • Flexible electives – customizable curriculum to match career interests
  • Environmental planning – integrated approach to spatial technology applications

University of Tennessee-Knoxville – Applied Technology

  • Military-friendly – supports veteran and active-duty students
  • Technical career focus – prepares for GIS specialist and analyst positions
  • Real-world applications – natural resource management, emergency response
  • Hands-on learning – practical experience with spatial technology
  • Standard admission – accessible undergraduate requirements
  • Geographic information systems – comprehensive GIS training

Financial Analysis & Affordability

SchoolUndergraduateGraduateValue Proposition
Cal State Long Beach$5,600-$8,400 (in-state)$6,800-$10,100 (in-state)Most affordable comprehensive option
UC DenverNot specified$7,200-$10,700 (in-state)STEM designation with WICHE benefits
University of OklahomaNot specified$7,300-$10,900 (in-state)Transparent online pricing
Northern ArizonaNot specifiedNot specifiedHybrid format flexibility
Michigan StateNot specifiedNot specifiedResearch university resources

Career Preparation Pathways

Cal State Long Beach Graduates Excel In:

  • Environmental consulting firms
  • Urban planning departments
  • GIS specialist positions
  • Digital cartography companies
  • Government mapping agencies
  • Graduate research programs

University of Oklahoma Graduates Excel In:

  • Environmental management organizations
  • Government spatial analysis departments
  • Policy development agencies
  • Leadership roles in planning
  • Private sector consulting
  • Sustainability management

UC Denver Graduates Excel In:

  • Environmental health organizations
  • Climate change research institutes
  • Public health spatial analysis
  • STEM-focused technology companies
  • Government environmental agencies
  • Community engagement organizations

Towson University Graduates Excel In:

  • Environmental planning firms
  • Geospatial technology companies
  • Government planning departments
  • Graduate school programs
  • GIS consulting services
  • Remote sensing organizations

UT-Knoxville Graduates Excel In:

  • Natural resource management
  • Emergency response agencies
  • GIS technology companies
  • Government mapping services
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Spatial analysis consulting

Program Fit Assessment

Choose Cal State Long Beach If You:

  • Want comprehensive undergraduate and graduate options
  • Need affordable, high-quality geospatial education
  • Prefer research-intensive graduate training
  • Value teaching assistantship opportunities
  • Want strong digital cartography and GIS programming
  • Seek preparation for environmental management careers

Choose University of Oklahoma If You:

  • Are a working professional needing flexibility
  • Want transparent, competitive online pricing
  • Prefer no prerequisite requirements
  • Need rolling admissions convenience
  • Value environmental sustainability integration
  • Seek leadership preparation in spatial technology

Choose UC Denver If You:

  • Want STEM designation benefits
  • Need hybrid format flexibility
  • Are interested in environmental health or climate change
  • Qualify for WICHE in-state tuition
  • Value community engagement projects
  • Prefer specialized concentration options

Choose Towson University If You:

  • Want accelerated BS/MS pathway
  • Value student organization participation
  • Need scholarship support for majors
  • Prefer hands-on learning emphasis
  • Want environmental planning integration
  • Seek honor society opportunities

Choose UT-Knoxville If You:

  • Are military-affiliated or veteran
  • Want practical, applied technology training
  • Prefer natural resource management focus
  • Need accessible undergraduate admission
  • Value emergency response applications
  • Seek comprehensive GIS specialist preparation

Admission Requirements Summary

  • Cal State Long Beach: 3.0 GPA for graduate, SAT/ACT for undergraduate
  • University of Oklahoma: 3.0 GPA for graduate, competitive standards
  • UC Denver: Graduate standards, February 1 priority deadline
  • Towson University: Standard university requirements
  • UT-Knoxville: Standard undergraduate admission requirements

Unique Program Features

California State University-Long Beach

  • Research thesis requirement – develops advanced research capabilities
  • Digital cartography emphasis – specialized mapping technology training
  • Teaching assistantships – competitive graduate funding
  • Technology-driven curriculum – cutting-edge spatial analysis techniques

University of Oklahoma

  • Rolling admissions – flexible application timeline
  • 21-month completion – efficient professional timeline
  • No prerequisites – accessible to diverse backgrounds
  • Dual format options – campus and online delivery

University of Colorado Denver

  • STEM designation – enhanced career and visa prospects
  • WICHE benefits – potential in-state tuition for western states
  • Specialized concentrations – Environmental Health and Climate Change
  • Community projects – real-world application opportunities

Towson University

  • Accelerated BS/MS – faster degree completion pathway
  • Geography Club – professional networking opportunities
  • Major scholarships – dedicated funding support
  • Gamma Theta Upsilon – honor society membership

University of Tennessee-Knoxville

  • Military-friendly – veteran and active-duty support
  • Emergency response focus – specialized application training
  • Natural resource emphasis – environmental management preparation

Additional Notable Programs

Northern Arizona University (#6)

  • Hybrid format – online and campus flexibility
  • 120 units – comprehensive curriculum
  • Study abroad options – international experience opportunities
  • Military-friendly – veteran support services

Michigan State University (#7)

  • Earth Observation focus – satellite and remote sensing emphasis
  • Research university resources – extensive facilities and faculty
  • Interdisciplinary approach – natural and social science integration

Arizona State University (#10)

  • Computational Spatial Science – advanced analytical focus
  • 30 credits – efficient graduate program
  • Flexible formats – campus and online options
  • Research opportunities – faculty collaboration programs

Bottom Line Recommendations

For comprehensive affordable education: Cal State Long Beach provides excellent undergraduate and graduate pathways with strong research emphasis.

For working professionals: University of Oklahoma’s online program offers maximum flexibility with transparent pricing.

For STEM career benefits: UC Denver’s STEM-designated program provides enhanced prospects with hybrid flexibility.

For accelerated completion: Towson University’s BS/MS pathway enables faster degree attainment with strong support systems.

For military-affiliated students: UT-Knoxville offers military-friendly programs with practical applications.

For specialized environmental focus: UC Denver’s Environmental Health and Climate Change concentrations address contemporary challenges.

For research-intensive training: Cal State Long Beach’s thesis requirement develops advanced research capabilities for academic careers.

Each program serves different educational goals and career paths – your choice should align with format preferences, specialization interests, financial considerations, and professional objectives in geospatial technology.