StudyQA — Bachelor: Geographic Information Sciences

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The Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Sciences (GIS) at South Dakota State University provides students with a comprehensive education in the principles and applications of geographic information systems, remote sensing, cartography, spatial analysis, and geospatial technology. This program is designed to equip students with the technical skills and theoretical understanding necessary to analyze, interpret, and manage spatial data for a wide range of industries, including environmental management, urban planning, transportation, agriculture, and natural resource conservation. Students will develop proficiency in industry-standard software such as ArcGIS and QGIS, while gaining practical experience through hands-on projects, internships, and research opportunities. The curriculum emphasizes both the scientific foundations and real-world applications of GIS, emphasizing critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for graduate studies or careers in government agencies, private sector firms, and non-profit organizations. Throughout the program, students explore topics like spatial data acquisition, data visualization, geostatistics, and web-based mapping, preparing them to address complex spatial problems using cutting-edge geospatial tools. Graduates of this program will be well-prepared for roles such as GIS analyst, geospatial technician, environmental consultant, urban planner, or remote sensing specialist. The program also provides a pathway for students interested in pursuing advanced degrees in geography, urban planning, environmental science, or related fields. By combining technical training with interdisciplinary coursework, the program aims to produce versatile professionals capable of contributing innovative solutions to geographic challenges in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline June for Fall semester; November for Spring semester Tuition fee

USD 8262 Year (National)
USD 18044 Year (International)

Start date January,September 2015 Credits 120 credits
Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test

English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time

Course Content

Major Requirements: 41

Physical Geography: Weather and Climate and Lab
Physical Geography: Natural Landscapes and Lab
Introduction to Human Geography
World Regional Geography
Quantitative Research Methods in Geography
Cartography and Lab
Geography of the Future
Air Photo Interpretation and Lab
Remote Sensing and Lab
Introduction to GIS
GIS: Data Creation and Integration
GIS: Vector and Raster Modeling
or GIS Applications
Trigonometry

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 5.5 TOEFL paper-based test score : 500 TOEFL iBT® test : 61

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test. More About IELTS

Requirements

Applicants should have an above average academic record at least equivalent to a "B-" average (2.60 out of 4.00), or be in the top 60% of their class with suitable academic preparation for the intended major.

The SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test), while not required, is encouraged and strongly recommended for freshman applicants. Students who graduated from U.S. high schools must submit an SAT score.

Academic Transcripts need to be originals or official certified true copies. If your transcripts are not in English, certified true translations must be attached. All upper secondary school-level work need to be demonstrated through your transcripts. It is common for applicants to submit transcripts prior to completion of their final year of secondary school. If you must submit transcripts prior to completion, please indicate your expected graduation date.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

✔️ Flexible study schedule
✔️ Experienced teachers
✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Related Scholarships*

Academic Excellence Scholarship
"The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."
Alumni Study Travel Fund
Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.
Amsterdam Merit Scholarships
The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than South Dakota State University.

Funding

SDSU offers a variety of academic scholarships. Awards are based on academic achievement, activities participation and leadership.

Accreditation

South Dakota State University has been granted the full, ten-year reaccreditation by the Higher Learning Commission. An accreditation team of representatives from peer institutions commended SDSU for: