Bachelor of Geographic Information Science at The Ohio State University
Study Geographic Information Science at The Ohio State University, a Bachelor degree offered on the Columbus campus in United States of America. This Full Time program is delivered on campus in English and takes approximately 4 years to complete. Students benefit from a structured learning experience designed to build both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The next intake is scheduled for August 24, 2027.
About Bachelor of Geographic Information Science
Geographic Information Science
Degree: BS
Campus: Columbus
College: Arts and Sciences
What is GIS? Geographic information systems (GIS) allow us make informed, educated decisions based on geographic data. People intuitively understand maps. Trends and patterns become more apparent when viewed on a map. Maps are necessary for solving spatial problems. Knowledge of GIS and spatial analysis is crucial in today's interconnected and global society. GIS technology has many uses, ranging from emergency management and other city services, to business location and retail analysis, transportation and logistics modeling, regulating the spread of disease, monitoring local crime patterns, and managing natural resources.
Ohio State is designated as a Center for Academic Excellence in Geospatial Sciences by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and is among the nation's premier institutions in the development of geospatial technologies. The department is ranked as one of the top five geography departments in the United States and is recognized globally as a leader in teaching and research in cartographic, spatial analytic and geographic information science.
Get started
Upon admission to the university, students can enroll directly in the geographic information science program.
Curriculum
Freshman year
- Human Geography or Economic and Social Geography
- Introduction to Statistical Analysis
Sophomore year
- Cartography and Map Design
- Elementary Computer Programming
- Spatial Data Analysis
Junior year
- Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems
- Geovisualization
- GIS Algorithms and Programming
Senior year
- Geographic Applications in Remote Sensing
- GIS Design and Implementation
- Emerging Topics in GIS
- Spatial Simulation and Modeling
Internship
Contacts among state and local government agencies (e.g., Ohio Department of Transportation) and local businesses are especially valuable for students seeking part-time work or internships. Current geography students with a specialization in geographic information science have obtained valuable experience through such internships, many of which are paid positions.
The Department of Geography offers students the opportunity to earn credit for a structured work experience either as an employment position or a position identified as an internship. GIS students may apply that credit toward their major as a major elective.
Research
The department's faculty in the area of geographic information and related sciences are easily accessible to students for course-related issues, career advice and research opportunities.
Possible careers
Students graduating from Ohio State with a bachelor’s degree in geographic information science will be prepared to find employment in areas such as resource management, spatial database development and management, environmental planning, transportation planning, software development, cartography, conservation, urban planning, and spatial decision support services. Graduates will also be competitive applicants for graduate schools.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of surveyors, cartographers, photogrammetrists, and surveying and mapping technicians is expected to grow 19% from 2008 to 2018, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Increasing demand for fast, accurate and complete geographic information will be the main source of job growth. Traditionally, the public sector has been the main employer of geographic information science professionals, but there are also growing opportunities within the private sector.
Graduates will be prepared for positions beyond routine use of geospatial technologies and will be able to apply spatial analysis techniques to address sophisticated problems in a variety of fields. In addition, graduates will have begun to develop the business and communication competencies required for advancement in government agencies and private businesses.
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Bachelor of Geographic Information Science at The Ohio State University
Entry Requirements
Criteria of our holistic review, in no particular order.
Successful completion of university preparatory courses
High school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA
Standardized test score (ACT or SAT); Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community
Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement (e.g., co-curricular activities, work experiences or military service)
Status as a first-generation university student
Demonstration of outstanding talent in a particular area
High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors
Eligibility for and likelihood of benefiting from organized support services at Ohio State
Enrollment in your intended major
Once it is determined that you are admissible, you will be considered for enrollment in the college of your intended major. Read about
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 79
English Program Requirements
we require evidence of English language proficiency, unless you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Tuition and Fee Information for Bachelor of Geographic Information Science at The Ohio State University
How to Apply for Bachelor of Geographic Information Science at The Ohio State University
How do I submit scores?
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Tips for sending scores to Ohio State
Scores must come directly from the testing agency. When you register for the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to Ohio State.
If you already took the test but didn't send your scores to Ohio State, you can order them for a fee. Order in advance to be sure scores reach us by the application deadline.
We must receive standardized test scores by your application deadline (either November 1 or February 1 for autumn semester applicants).
October 2 (SAT) and October 23 (ACT) are your last 2021 test dates if you want your scores to be considered for our November 1 early action deadline. Important! If you plan to test on those dates, you must request that Ohio State receive scores when you register for the test. And please note: If you choose to have your scores considered, you won’t be able to review scores from these dates prior to submitting your application by the November 1 deadline.
Applicants who will have been out of high school for two or more years by their term of enrollment are not required to submit scores.
Is the essay required?
The essay is not required for either the ACT or SAT.
Should I take a standardized test more than once?
Ohio State looks at the highest composite score from a single test date. Taking the test (and having scores sent to us) more than once, while not required, may work to your advantage.
How does Ohio State look at scores?
When considering students for admission or Honors and Scholars selection, we consider the best official composite / combined score from a single test administration. Ohio State does not mix sub-scores from multiple tests.
These items plus the Common Application (STEP 3) make up a complete application. We must receive all items by the deadline to consider your application on time.
Official transcripts
High school transcripts
Request that your high school or secondary school send transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates for coursework from the final four years (grades 9-12) to Ohio State.
How to send your transcripts to Ohio State:
Your high school counselor can upload the transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates using Common App, Naviance or other secure electronic delivery service.
Your high school counselor can email the transcripts to [email protected].
If electronic submission is not possible, please mail your official transcripts to our express mail address.
Faxed transcripts will not be accepted.
Foreign language documents must be translated into English by the issuing institution, an authorized translator or a teacher of the language. Any additional requirements will be posted to your Applicant Center, so be sure to check your application status regularly after you've applied.
Official ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.How do I submit my scores?
We must receive your official ACT or SAT score sent electronically directly from the testing agency. Scores from transcripts will not be considered. Read more about score requirements in STEP 1.
Optional: Recommendation from a teacher or counselor
While not required, your counselor may send a maximum of two letters of recommendation electronically through the Common Application.
If an electronic option isn’t available, your counselor may email your letter(s) to
[email protected]; the letter must include your first and last name and OSU ID number, found on the email we send acknowledging receipt of your application. Letters sent via email are subject to sender verification.
Official proof of English language skills
You must request that your testing agency send official scores electronically to Ohio State demonstrating the English proficiency level outlined below:
TOEFL (internet-based test or internet-based test Home Edition*): 79 or higher
IELTS or IELTS Indicator*: 6.5 or higher
ACT: 21 or higher on the English section
SAT: 27 or higher on the Reading Test
Duolingo*: 105 or higher
You are exempt from this requirement if you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Ohio State has an intensive English program for students who wish to improve their language skills called the American Language Program. A separate application is required for this program. Ohio State does not offer conditional admission to students who enroll in the American Language Program.
*To accommodate applicants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Ohio State University will accept Duolingo, the IELTS Indicator and the TOEFL internet-based test Home Edition from any international student applying for spring 2022 or autumn 2022 admission. All Duolingo test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival to campus. TOEFL Home Edition and IELTS Indicator test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival unless they qualify for a TOEFL or IELTS score exemption.
United States of America, Columbus