Master of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Applications

Take your love of mapping things out, analyzing data and using spatial science to predict change to the next level with a Master of Geographic Information Systems Applications at VIU.

GIS master’s program graduates have a wide range of career opportunities in areas such as forestry, resource management, urban and rural planning, government, banking, transportation and many more.

The MGISA program is available to students with any undergraduate degree who have experience or training with GIS. This online Master of Geographical Information System covers both academic and practical application of spatial analysis, learning in classrooms and working hands-on with ArcGIS by ESRI GIS software.

The Master of Geographic Information Systems Applications (GIS) Program

2 Years - Blended Face-to-Face/Online Program

2.5 Years - Fully Online Program

The Master of Geographic Information System Applications (MGISA) Program builds on the existing Advanced Diploma in GIS Applications (ADGISA) Program by providing opportunities for students to strengthen their GIS skills, enabling them to compete more effectively and for better positions in the job market.

The program consists of two stages; each stage has 30 credits. Stage 1 involves the same courses as the current Advanced Diploma, and is available both face-to-face and online; the Stage 2 courses will be delivered online, with face-to-face or online supervision and defence of the research project.

The program combines a strong academic foundation with professional skills by requiring both academic courses (including labs and seminars) and a research project, thus generating an intellectual environment in which students can enhance their theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the area of Geographic Information Science.

This is a place of acknowledgement and fair access, achievement and personal attention – a special blend of a caring, nurturing environment sets VIU apart from other universities. It’s an essential ingredient for a values-based education that creates an environment balancing academic accomplishments with the goal of developing students' social and relationship skills to last a lifetime, make a difference, and model others to do the same. In doing this, VIU is making an invaluable contribution to much stronger and healthier communities and a better world.

Support and student achievement go hand in hand.

Students and alumni tell us all the time how VIU’s small classes and caring support from faculty and staff have made a difference for them in finding success in their studies. The attention to every student’s needs goes far beyond a number. The result? Students have the opportunity to become graduates who are confident, motivated and prepared to take on the world as they step into future careers.

Students flourish in teaching-focused classes.

Students go above and beyond in programs that provide a match for their passion, their ambition, and their future career aspirations. The focus at VIU is on helping students meet their goals, prepare for careers, and attain success they may not even have imagined when they started. Students experience hands-on learning, individual attention, and many opportunities for undergraduate research.

With more than 120+ programs, there are many paths ahead.

Students can find the right VIU program to help them prepare for a multitude of careers. Advisors are with them from day one, whether they start out with fundamental upgrading for university entrance, or if they’re a top high school scholar attending on scholarship.