Degree Programs

Current GIS instruction at UW-Milwaukee includes opportunities for an undergraduate degree track, certificates, and for specialization within graduate programs. These courses earn points towards certification as a GISP, GIS Professional, through the GIS Certification Institute. These opportunities include the following:

Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information System

For those who desire to prepare for a career in geographic information systems, the UW-Milwaukee offers a formal course of study in GIS technology leading to a Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems. This program recognizes the multidisciplinary nature of GIS technology and application by identifying a prescribed set of GIS-related courses from three different departments on campus so that students can obtain critical background and skills that relate to GIS technology: database management, cartography, remote sensing, surveying, etc.

Department of Geography

The Department of Geography offers undergraduate majors a Geographic Information Science Track in their degree program. A Geography Master’s degree is offered with a GIS focus in thesis/non-thesis options, as well as a doctoral degree which can include an emphasis in GIS.

School of Architecture & Urban Planning

The School of Architecture & Urban Planning within the College of the Arts & Architecture offers a transcript-designated Concentration in Geographic Information Systems as one of its 6 emphases within the Master of Urban Planning Degree. PhD students have also specialized in GIS in Architecture, and Urban Studies. A multidisciplinary PhD program is another option for students who wish to specialize in GIS.

Department of Criminal Justice

The Department of Criminal Justice offers Graduate and Undergraduate degrees in their Crime Analysis Programs. The department also offers a Certificate in Crime Analysis using tools such as GIS to map and analyze crime patterns and help police address crime trends and allocate resources.