This Professional Science Master’s Certificate is designed for graduate students pursuing master’s degrees in geography (with specializations in cartography and Geographical Information Systems [GIS]). Through applied and interdisciplinary coursework, these students are expected to strengthen their professional skills to better position themselves for success in the workplace.

A total of 40 credits is required to complete the master’s degree in geography (from the cartography and GIS track), and 13 credits in professional skills courses are required to receive the certificate. This “plus” component moves beyond the training of a traditional master’s degree in geography. It emphasizes leadership skills, business and project management, ethics and legal principles, communication skills and team-building skills. Students will acquire these professional skills through coursework and workshops, as well as internships and group projects in employer-based settings.