Jay Gogue, Interim President of the NMSU System | New Mexico State University
Jay Gogue, Interim President of the NMSU System | New Mexico State University
New Mexico State University (NMSU) is set to launch a new online Master of Science degree in Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIS&T). The program, offered through the NMSU Global Campus, will begin in Fall 2025. It aims to cater to working professionals and recent graduates by providing a flexible learning environment.
Michaela Buenemann, professor and academic department head at NMSU's Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, highlighted the program's accessibility: "This program is 100% online and asynchronous, making it ideal for working professionals looking to advance their careers or for those entering the geospatial workforce." She added that students can earn their degrees from anywhere while maintaining their current employment.
The demand for geospatial professionals is increasing across various sectors such as government, business, and academia. These experts are crucial in areas like planning, zoning, emergency management, and climate change adaptation. Buenemann noted that "geospatial professionals are key players" in many sectors.
In New Mexico specifically, there is an anticipated 18% job growth for geographic information technologists over the next five years. The average annual salary in this field is approximately $95,000. Buenemann stated that "the need for GIS&T expertise is expanding rapidly," emphasizing the program's role in meeting this demand.
The curriculum includes core courses on cartography, geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, programming, spatial analysis and modeling. Students will engage in hands-on exercises across various fields including geography and environmental science. A capstone project will allow students to apply their skills to real-world problems with external sponsors.
Buenemann pointed out that there are no similar master's programs within New Mexico: "There are no comparable master’s programs in the state." She also mentioned that similar programs in Arizona are significantly more expensive.
The new GIS&T program builds on NMSU's existing Master of Applied Geography program and its collaborative Ph.D. initiative with the University of New Mexico launched in 2020. For more information about the GIS&T master’s degree at NMSU, interested individuals can visit their website.
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