About this program

The Ohio State University Department of Geography is ranked fifth in the U.S. and is internationally renowned. Ohio State is among the nation's premier institutions in the development of geospatial technologies and is a leader in the fields of cartography, spatial analysis and geographic information technology.

The Department of Geography offers two different degree options for students interested in GIS: a BS in Geographic Information Science and a BS in Geography with a specialization in Spatial Analysis.

What is GIS?

Geographic information systems (GIS) allow us make informed, educated decisions based on geographic data. Trends and patterns become more apparent when viewed on a map. 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.

What can you do with this degree? 

Students graduating 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.