Map Your Future with a Master of Geographic Information Science
Master the power of mapping and data to shape smarter, more ethical decisions in government, business, and the environment.
Whether you're advancing your career or pivoting into a new one, you’ll gain cutting-edge GIS expertise, real-world project experience, and a unique faith-informed lens on a fast-growing field.
Why Earn an MGIS from Calvin?
Here’s why earning a Master of Geographic Information Science (GIS) from Calvin is a smart, future-focused choice:
- Flexible experience: Whether you're a working professional, a recent graduate, or a Calvin undergrad pursuing the 4+1 track, our program adapts to your goals and timeline. Your courses are completely asynchronous and online across 16 weeks.
- Faith-informed ethics: Calvin is the only place you can get a Master in GIS online at a Christian university. You won't just learn technical skills—you'll navigate complex but crucial questions about privacy, surveillance, and justice in mapping.
- State-of-the-art technology: We're committed to staying on the cutting edge of this rapidly-evolving field. Your courses always feature training and technology that matches or exceeds the latest industry standards.
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Complete in 9-24 months
Cost per credit
No GRE/GMAT required
Course spotlight
Remote Sensing of Earth
What you'll learn: Explore how satellites, drones, and aerial photography help us study Earth’s landscapes—both natural and human-made. This hands-on course includes lab work and drone-based homework, with exciting topics like photogrammetry and 3D terrain modeling.
Geospatial Programming and Data Management
What you'll learn: Learn to code with Python and build custom GIS tools using ESRI software and Map Objects. This course blends hands-on programming with real-world projects, including designing a full GIS solution for a business or organization.
What's it like to earn your MGIS at Calvin?
Calvin’s Master of GIS program emphasizes practical application at every step. We build cutting-edge technology and experiences into every class—along with a strong ethical perspective that’s in high demand in this fast-growing field.
Every course is built around real-world scenarios in areas like computer cartography, mapping science, and data management. That means plenty of hands-on experience, which translates into careers in local government, urban planning, environmental management, and beyond.
Whether you're seeking a career shift, promotion, or a pathway to certification, Calvin’s GIS program offers flexible entry points—including a 4+1 option for Calvin undergrads. You’ll graduate with all the technical expertise you need for a rewarding career—and a faith-based vision for how these skills and technologies can benefit your community.
What Will You Do With Your MGIS?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, geographic information science is expanding at a steady pace of 5% per year. At this rate, more than 1,600 new GIS careers will be available by 2029.
Regardless of your chosen GIS career path, this program will provide you with the advanced skills and hands-on technology experience needed to achieve your goals.
Here are just some of the careers you could pursue with your GIS degree.
GIS Analyst or Specialist – support local governments, utilities, or private firms with spatial data analysis and mapping.
Urban or Regional Planner – use GIS to inform zoning, infrastructure, and community development decisions.
Environmental Consultant – monitor ecosystems, manage natural resources, and assess environmental impact.
Drone Mapping Technician – collect and analyze aerial data for agriculture, construction, or conservation.
Public Health Analyst – map disease trends, healthcare access, and demographic data to inform policy and response.
Emergency Management Planner – support disaster preparedness, response, and recovery planning.
Faculty
Jason E. VanHorn
Mark D Bjelland
Amber Pocuca
Frequently-asked Questions
Yes. The online Master’s in Geographic Information Science program offers a full-time option.
Yes. The online Master’s in Geographic Information Science program offers a part-time option.
Yes. This program accepts transfer credit with program director approval.
The faculty includes tenured, full-time professors who bring extensive, real-world experience to each class.
Miscellaneous fees associated with this program may include textbooks, supplies, personal expenses, or loan fees. Consider these costs when budgeting for your education.