The best affordable Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography degrees prepare undergraduates for careers in urban and regional planning, environmental science and geography education. In these programs, students learn how to use computer-based cartography, spatial analysis and geographic information systems (GIS) to conduct and contribute to groundbreaking research. Positions within this human-environmental landscape are in-demand; according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of photogrammetrists and cartographers is expected to increase 15 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. Continue reading to learn more about the top 30 best affordable Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography degrees, including career prospects, foundational coursework and degree specializations.
Methodology
In order to rank the following 30 colleges and universities, we awarded points based on three core metrics: affordability, class size and student success. We began by searching for the term “geographic information science and cartography bachelor’s degree” using the College Navigator tool at the National Center for Education Statistics. We then narrowed down the initial pool of 50 institutions into the top 30 programs based on the following methodology. We also double-checked the data provided with each school’s website to ensure accuracy.
Average Cost of Attendance
As you begin to narrow down prospective schools for a geographic information science and cartography degree, it is important to consider tuition in relation to the bigger academic picture. In other words, avoid selecting a program simply based on cost alone and instead consider everything the school has to offer. For the following ranking, we awarded points based on the cost of one academic year of study for in-state students using tuition rates provided by the NCES. We also provided out-of-state tuition costs for your reference only.
Points:
Under $7,500: 5 points
$7,500 to $15,000: 3 points
$15,001 and above: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
We also awarded points based on student-to-faculty ratios, using these figures as an indicator of the learning environment at each institution. As you narrow down your options, consider your own academic needs and learning style. Do you thrive in a large classroom in which you blend in with others, or do you prefer to learn in a smaller setting in which you can develop one-on-one relationships with peers and faculty? Although there are pros and cons to each, for this article, we awarded the most points to schools with the lowest student-to-faculty ratios, according to NCES.
Points:
10:1 or less: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Greater than 15:1: 1 point
Graduation Rate
Finally, graduation rates provide a look into student success as institutions with higher graduation rates are producing more graduates. On the other hand, schools with low graduation rates may be lacking in one or more areas such as failing to provide academic support, hiring inexperienced or unhelpful faculty members or charging too much for their programs. As a result of these or other factors, students may be more likely to leave and graduate from a different institution. Therefore, we awarded the most points to schools with the highest graduation rates from NCES.
Points
More than 50 percent: 3 points
Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points
Less than 30 percent: 1 point
Ranking Top 30 Best Affordable Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography Degrees
30. Farmingdale State College
Farmingdale, New York
Points: 6
Program Website
Also known as the State University of New York (SUNY) at Farmingdale, Farmingdale State College is a public technology college that began as a school of applied agriculture in 1912. FSC offers an affordable Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems designed to produce workforce-ready graduates trained in the application, theory and technology of geographic information systems. Students must complete 121 credit hours of study, including courses in the liberal arts and sciences, electives and classes within the major. Inexpensive areas of study include geodatabase management, geoprocessing, spatial analysis, geovisualization, geography, maps and map analysis and geospatial research methods. A senior seminar or internship is also required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems
In-State Tuition: $8,306
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,086
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 50 percent
29. Northwest Missouri State University
Maryville, Missouri
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded as a teachers’ college in 1905, Northwest Missouri State University is a public institution of higher learning and a top choice for undergraduates seeking an affordable bachelor’s in geographic information science and cartography. NMSU confers a cheap BS in Geographic Information Science designed to prepare students for spatial technology careers, including global positioning systems, cartography, remote sensing, precision agriculture and urban planning. Additionally, undergraduates benefit from access to the latest versions of industry-standard GIS software as well as several state-of-the-art computer laboratories. According to NMSU, 100 percent of students who complete the inexpensive degree program are employed or pursuing graduate study within six months after graduation.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science
In-State Tuition: $7,844
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,166
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Graduation Rate: 49 percent
28. Michigan State University
East Lansing, Michigan
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1855 as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan, Michigan State University is a public land- and sea-grant institution of higher learning. Offered through the College of Social Science, MSU’s low-cost BS in Geographic Information Science examines the application of information technology to the spatial dimensions of Earth’s physical and human systems. The in-depth, rigorous program requires 120 credit hours of study, including core courses in advanced remote sensing, geographic information systems, remote sensing, geographic information and quantitative methods for geographers. It is designed for those pursuing a career in the spatial technology sector or for students considering a graduate degree in geography.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science
In-State Tuition: $14,460
Out-of-State Tuition: $39,766
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 80 percent
27. University of California-Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, California
Points: 7
Program Website
Founded in 1891 as Anna Blake School, an independent teachers’ college, the University of California-Santa Barbara is a public research university and one of 10 schools that make up the University of California System. UCSB confers an inexpensive BA in Geography with an emphasis in geographic information science that builds on the field of geography with a focus on the science behind geospatial information technologies. Students choose one or more tracks in GIS specializations, including air photos and remote sensing, quantitative techniques and theoretical methods and geographic information systems and cartography. Graduates are prepared for master’s-level studies or for careers in any of the geographic information technology fields.
Degree Options:
Geography Major, B.A. – Geographic Information Science Emphasis
In-State Tuition: $14,391
Out-of-State Tuition: $43,383
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Graduation Rate: 82 percent
26. Rowan University
Glassboro, New Jersey
Points: 7
Program Website
Rowan University is a public university that began as Glassboro Normal School in 1923. Students seeking an affordable Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography can pursue Rowan’s low-cost BS in Geographic Information Science. The 122- to 124-semester-hour low-cost degree program provides undergraduates with in-depth skills in GIS programming and analysis with a special focus on environmental sustainability, web-based mapping and the emerging field of geodesign. Core coursework covers quantitative methods in geography, cartography, the fundamentals and applications of GIS and both environmental modeling and geospatial measurement. Graduates are prepared for careers in which they tackle spatial problem-solving, modeling and geospatial technologies.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science
In-State Tuition: $13,697
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,339
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 72 percent
25. University of Minnesota Duluth
Duluth, Minnesota
Points: 7
Program Website
One of the most affordable universities for a Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography, the University of Minnesota Duluth is also a member of the University of Minnesota System. Established as Duluth Normal School in 1902, UMD confers an inexpensive BS in Geographic Information Science — the only program of its kind in the state. The 120-credit affordable curriculum includes core courses in field techniques and research design, Earth imagery, geographic information system, geography, statistical methods and mapping. Students benefit from small class sizes and individualized attention from faculty members as well as a required internship in geographic information science through which they gain hands-on, real-world practical experience.
Degree Options:
Geographic Information Science B.S.
In-State Tuition: $13,366
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,484
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
24. University of Texas at Dallas
Richardson, Texas
Points: 7
Program Website
A member of the University of Texas System, the University of Texas at Dallas is a public institution of higher education that began in 1961 as the Graduate Research Center of the Southwest. Today, UT Dallas offers a top-value BS in Geospatial Information Sciences through its School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences that requires 120 semester hours of study, including 42 hours of core classes, 39 hours of electives and 39 hours in the major. Economical areas of study include applied geographic information systems, remote sensing, spatial data science, geospatial information sciences and spatial thinking and data analytics. As part of the program, students are required to complete one of two 15-hour concentrations: GeoComputation and GeoVisualization or Geography.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Geospatial Information Sciences
In-State Tuition: $13,034
Out-of-State Tuition: $36,876
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25:1
Graduation Rate: 72 percent
23. Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Points: 7
Program Website
Central Michigan University is a public university and one of the largest institutions of higher learning by enrollment in the state. CMU offers an affordable bachelor’s degree in geography with an emphasis on geographic information sciences that includes required coursework in remote sensing, geographic information systems, research methods, computer programming, statistical analysis, geographic information science and a geography capstone. Through CMU’s Center for Geographic Information Science, undergraduates gain hands-on experience using the latest GIS software and hardware to provide geospatial research tools for solving industrial, governmental and academic problems. Students also benefit from field trips, small classes and opportunities to collaborate with faculty members on research projects.
Degree Options:
Geography: Geographic Information Sciences
In-State Tuition: $12,960
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,120
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 62 percent
22. Ohio University
Athens, Ohio
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1787, Ohio University was the first institution of higher learning to be chartered in Ohio. Today, the school offers more than 250 inexpensive programs, including undergraduate- and graduate-level degrees, to more than 34,800 students across its campuses. OU’s best-value Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science prepares students with a technical background in mapping, geographic information systems and quantitative geographic analysis. Whether pursuing graduate studies or a career, students completing this affordable Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography will be proficient with software-based applications and cartographic theory, remote sensing and geographic information systems.
Degree Options:
Geographic Information Science Major B.S.
In-State Tuition: $12,192
Out-of-State Tuition: $21,656
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 64 percent
21. University of Oregon
Eugene, Oregon
Points: 7
Program Website
One of the most affordable universities for a Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography degree, the University of Oregon is a public institution of higher learning and the flagship campus of the University of Oregon System. UO offers a low-cost bachelor’s degree in geography with a concentration in geographic information science that emphasizes a broad-based approach to geographical information science and consists of training, research and coursework in remote sensing, cognitive and information science, geographic information systems and cartography. Students develop practical, hands-on skills via access to two laboratories operated by the UO Geography Department: the InfoGraphics Lab and the Spatial and Map Cognition Research Lab.
Degree Options:
Geographic Information Science
In-State Tuition: $11,898
Out-of-State Tuition: $35,478
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 73 percent
20. Texas A&M University
College Station, Texas
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1871 as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas, Texas A&M University is a public land-, sea- and space-grant institution of higher learning and the founding member of the Texas A&M University System. Texas A&M confers an affordable BS in Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIST) that offers undergraduates a modern-day, rigorous education in GIST with application knowledge in human and physical geography. Students may further focus their degree by choosing one of three inexpensive concentration tracks: Human Systems and Society, Earth Systems Analysis and Computation, Design and Analysis The GIST program also supports student research and activities and provides opportunities for undergraduates to gain professional, real-world experience.
Degree Options:
B.S. in Geographic Information Science & Technology (GIST)
In-State Tuition: $11,870
Out-of-State Tuition: $37,495
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 82 percent
19. University of Oklahoma
Norman, Oklahoma
Points: 7
Program Website
Founded in 1890, the University of Oklahoma is a public space-grant institution and the flagship campus of the University of Oklahoma System. Students seeking an affordable Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science can choose from two top-value degree programs at OU: a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science. Both economical degree programs focus on the technology and science of using, distributing, interpreting, analyzing and gathering geographic information. Coursework includes topics in computer-based information systems and programming, statistics, remote sensing, geography and geographic information science applications. The best-value B.A. path includes an additional course in applied geographic information science. A capstone is required for graduation from both programs.
Degree Options:
Geographic Information Science (GIS) (BA/BS)
In-State Tuition: $11,538
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,919
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 67 percent
18. University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, Ohio
Points: 7
Program Website
Founded as Cincinnati College in 1819, the University of Cincinnati is the oldest institution of higher learning in the city and one of the most affordable universities for a Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography degree. UC’s College of Arts and Sciences provides a low-cost BS in Geography with a concentration in geographical information systems in which students use hands-on experiences, powerful technology tools and critical analysis to understand the biggest societal challenges facing the world today. Throughout the inexpensive degree program, students have the opportunity to use geospatial technology such as drones and satellites and conduct research with esteemed faculty members. Graduates are prepared for careers in education, nonprofit agencies and the government.
Degree Options:
Geography BS: Geographical Information Systems
In-State Tuition: $11,000
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,334
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 68 percent
17. Arizona State University
Tempe, Arizona
Points: 7
Program Website
Spanning five campuses throughout Phoenix and four regional learning centers in Arizona, Arizona State University is one of the largest public institutions of higher education by enrollment in the U.S. Established in 1885, ASU’s College of Liberal Arts & Sciences provides a cheap Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science that is available on-campus and online. Students in this best-value degree program begin their studies by building a solid foundation in computer programming, statistical analysis and geographic information systems. Through upper-division coursework, undergraduates expand on what they have learned to pursue a more focused, deeper understanding of geographical information science technologies and their application to complex societal and environmental issues.
Degree Options:
Geographic Information Science (BS)
In-State Tuition: $10,822
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,336
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 69 percent
16. Ohio State University
Columbus, Ohio
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1870, Ohio State University is designated as a Center for Academic Excellence in the Geospatial Sciences by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and is among the top schools in the country for the development of geospatial technology. A leader in the fields of geographic information technology, spatial analysis and cartography, OSU confers two best-value Bachelor of Science degrees: a B.S. in Geographic Information Science and a B.S. in Geography with a specialization in spatial analysis. Students in both economical degree programs will learn the software, methods and tools necessary for analyzing and managing geographic information. Through coursework in measurements and surveying, graphics, remote sensing, statistics and technical mathematics, students also become skilled in several computer technologies. An optional certification credential is available.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science
Bachelor of Science in Geography With a Specialization in Spatial Analyais
In-State Tuition: $10,726
Out-of-State Tuition: $30,742
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 84 percent
15. University of Maryland-College Park
College Park, Maryland
Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Maryland-College Park is a public research university that was founded in 1856 as Maryland Agricultural College. The flagship institution of the University System of Maryland, UMD confers a top-value Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science and Computer Cartography designed to provide undergraduates with the technical skills they need to analyze, manage and acquire large amounts of geographic data. Through the economical curriculum, students benefit from extensive computer training in the digital processing of cartographic vector data and remote sensing observations, spatial analysis and the display of data sets and information.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science and Computer Cartography
In-State Tuition: $10,595
Out-of-State Tuition: $35,216
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 86 percent
14. University of Wisconsin Madison
Madison, Wisconsin
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1848, the University of Wisconsin-Madison is the oldest and largest public institution of higher education in the state and the flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin System. UWM’s College of Letters & Science confers an affordable Bachelor of Science in Cartography and Geographic Information Systems that incorporates spatial analysis, cartography, geography and related fields such as computer science, cognition, geocomputation, geodesy and geovisualization. Students must complete 120 credits of study as well as a capstone in the form of a senior thesis in order to graduate from the high-value degree program.
Degree Options:
Cartography and Geographic Information Systems, B.S.
In-State Tuition: $10,555
Out-of-State Tuition: $36,805
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 87 percent
13. Texas State University
San Marcos, Texas
Points: 7
Program Website
One of the most affordable universities for an affordable Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography degree, Texas State University is a public research university and the largest institution by enrollment in the Texas State University System. Established in 1899 as the Southwest Texas State Normal School, TSU offers a 120-semester-credit-hour inexpensive BS in Geographic Information Science that requires undergraduates to select a minor area of study. Required major courses cover research methods in geography, geographic information systems and physical geography, while core courses are offered in maps and mapmaking, remote sensing and advanced GIS. Students round out the degree requirements by completing a capstone course in GIS design and implementation, GPS and GIS, web mapping, digital remote sensing or advanced cartographic design.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Major in Geographic Information Science
In-State Tuition: $10,280
Out-of-State Tuition: $21,900
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Graduation Rate: 55 percent
12. Ball State University
Muncie, Indiana
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1918, Ball State University is a public research university that was established by the Ball brothers, founders of the Ball Corporation. BSU offers two high-value degree programs for students seeking an affordable Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography: a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Geography. Both 120-credit degree programs feature a concentration in geographic information science and focus on topics as wide-ranging as planning, social science, emergency management, transportation, environmental science and natural resources. Graduates are prepared for careers as environmental planners and engineers, natural resource and agricultural land managers and infrastructure managers.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Geography
Bachelor of Science in Geography
In-State Tuition: $9,896
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,468
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 63 percent
11. Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, Kentucky
Points: 7
Program Website
Eastern Kentucky University is a public university that enrolls more than 16,500 students across its main campus and several branch campuses throughout Kentucky. EKU students interested in computer technologies, environmental and sustainability issues, global issues and world development and using geographic data to make informed decisions may consider pursuing the affordable Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science and prepare for a variety of lucrative careers. In addition to completing a rigorous curriculum, students benefit from high-quality faculty mentoring, opportunities for student-centered research and professional development in GIS. EKU is home to several state-of-the-art facilities that house the latest instrumentation and equipment to prepare graduates for top jobs in the field.
Degree Options:
B.S. in Geographic Information Science
In-State Tuition: $9,666
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,444
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 47 percent
10. University of Utah
Salt Lake City, Utah
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1850 as the University of Deseret, the University of Utah is a public space-grant institution of higher learning and the flagship university of the state. The school confers a high-value BS in Geographic Information Science that includes topics of study such as GIS and cartography, geographical analysis, geoprogramming, human geography and global change. Students also complete two remote sensing courses and an applied GIS core consisting of studies in spatial modeling, geoprocessing, spatial data design and geodata field methods. The inexpensive degree program culminates in a required senior capstone in geographic information science.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science (GIS)
In-State Tuition: $9,222
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,215
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 70 percent
9. Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, Oklahoma
Points: 7
Program Website
Oklahoma State University, originally known as Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College, is a public land-grant research university and the flagship campus of the Oklahoma State University System. OSU confers an inexpensive BS in Geospatial Information Science that prepares undergraduates for careers as cartographers, remote sensing specialists, GIS application developers, geospatial scientists and GIS analysts and administrators. GISci majors benefit from access to two state-of-the-art GIS labs to support their classroom learning, providing a specialized course of study involving the Global Positioning System (GPS), remote sensing and geospatial technologies such as GIS. Courses to expect within this major include Remote Sensing, Spatial Analysis and Digital Tools in Environmental Exploration.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Geospatial Information Science
In-State Tuition: $9,019
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,539
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 61 percent
8. University of Southern Maine
Portland, Maine
Points: 7
Program Website
Recognized among the top most affordable universities for a bachelor’s degree in geographic information science and cartography, the University of Southern Maine is a public university and a member of the University of Maine System. USM provides a cheap Bachelor of Arts in Geography-Anthropology with a specialization in applied geographic information systems and geospatial analysis. This low-cost degree track is designed for students interested in developing analytical and technical skills as well as conceptual and theoretical knowledge of GIS, geospatial analysis and remote sensing. Required coursework investigates mapping environments and people, statistics, GIS applications, digital mapping and remote sensing. Students may choose from one of several options to complete the capstone requirement, including a GIS research applications course, a GIS internship or an independent study in GIS.
Degree Options:
BA in Geography-Anthropology, Specialization in Applied Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Geospatial Analysis
In-State Tuition: $8,918
Out-of-State Tuition: $21,294
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 39 percent
7. South Dakota State University
Brookings, South Dakota
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1881, South Dakota State University is a public research institution of higher learning and the most comprehensive, larges and oldest continually-operating university in the state. In SDSU’s low-cost Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Sciences degree program, students investigate interactions between humans and the environment and learn geospatial technologies such as computational analysis, remote sensing and cartography. The affordable curriculum also provides opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience with computerized geographic information systems that integrate data, software and hardware for displaying, analyzing, managing and capturing all types of geographically referenced information.
Degree Options:
Geographic Information Sciences (B.S.)
In-State Tuition: $8,764
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,128
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 56 percent
6. SUNY Cortland
Cortland, New York
Points: 7
Program Website
The State University of New York (SUNY) College at Cortland was established in 1868 and is currently a member of the State University of New York System. Students interested in a high-value Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography may consider pursuing SUNY Cortland’s inexpensive BS in Geographic Information Systems. The low-cost curriculum examines the nature of geographic data while identifying the most practical GIS technology applications to use to solve spatial issues. Students receive computer training in ENVY and GIS software, spatial analysis and the digital processing of cartographic vector data and remote sensing observations. Four concentration options are available: Environmental Science, Demographics and Business Geographics, Computer Techniques and Advanced Geospatial Applications.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
In-State Tuition: $8,536
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,316
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 71 percent
5. University of Arizona
Tucson, Arizona
Points: 8
Program Website
Recognized among the top 10 geography schools in the U.S., the University of Arizona is a public research university and a popular choice among undergraduates seeking an affordable Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography degree. UA confers a rigorous and budget friendly BS in Geographic Information Systems Technology degree that emphasizes cutting-edge coursework in open source programming, mobile and Web applications, geovisualization and cartography as well as a strong remote sensing science component developed and implemented by experienced research faculty members. The 120-credit-hour curriculum is comprised of project-based, applied courses as well as a senior capstone project tailor to each student and the professional skills they will need in their respective careers.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems Technology
In-State Tuition: $12,467
Out-of-State Tuition: $36,366
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 64 percent
4. Salem State University
Salem, Massachusetts
Points: 8
Program Website
Established as Salem Normal School in 1854, Salem State University is a public university that offers one of the most affordable Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography degrees: the economical Bachelor of Science in Cartography and Geographic Information Systems. This technology-focused program was developed to provide undergraduates with the technical, practical and theoretical skills they need to analyze and visualize spatial data in various applications. The high-value degree program examines geographic information science, geographic research and related geospatial technologies such as remote sensing from aircraft and satellites as well as crime mapping, digital imaging processing and programming. Students may choose to complete an internship in geography to gain hands-on, real-world experience.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Cartography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
In-State Tuition: $10,642
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,082
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
3. University at Buffalo
Buffalo, New York
Points: 8
Program Website
Ranking among the top three most affordable universities for a Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography degree, the State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo is a public research university and the de factor flagship campus of the SUNY System. Students may pursue a cheap Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Sciences and gain cutting-edge abilities, skills and knowledge regarding geospatial technologies. Areas of focus include geographic visualization, locational analysis, remote sensing and geographical information systems as well as the interpretation, processing and collection of geospatial information. Undergraduates also have access to the Geographic Information and Analysis Laboratory in which they pursue active learning experiences.
Degree Options:
Geographic Information Science BS
In-State Tuition: $10,099
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,769
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 76 percent
2. SUNY College at Potsdam
Potsdam, New York
Points: 8
Program Website
Established in 1816, the State University of New York (SUNY) College at Potsdam is a public college and one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the nation. A member of the State University of New York System, SUNY Potsdam offers a low-cost Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science that prepares graduates to perform computer programming and modeling, manage databases, analyze data and design maps and graphics to help organizations make spatially-informed decisions and improve efficiency. Students graduate with highly marketable computer and GIS skills that appeal to a variety of graduate schools and employers.
Degree Options:
B.S. in Geographic Information Science
In-State Tuition: $8,462
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,242
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 56 percent
1. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, Georgia
Points: 8
Program Website
Topping our list of the most affordable universities for a Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography degree, Kennesaw State University is a public institution of higher learning and the third-largest university by enrollment in the state. A member of the University System of Georgia, KSU confers an inexpensive BS in Geographic Information Science degree that integrates applied research domains with GIS technology. Within the 120-credit-hour best-value degree program, students develop a solid foundation in physical and human geography, and they are required to complete a concentration in one of two systems: information systems or human-environment systems.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science
In-State Tuition: $6,347
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,329
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Graduation Rate: 43 percent
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for a Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography Degree?
Earning a bachelor’s degree in geographic information science and cartography provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to solve various spatial problems such as measuring the Earth’s physical characteristics, locating geographic data, creating maps and extracting information from that data. Most positions in the field of geographic information systems and cartography require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, including:
- Photogrammetrists and Cartographers
- Landscape Architects
- Surveyors
- Urban and Regional Planners
- Civil Engineers
- CAD Drafters
- GIS Analysts
- Geographers
Students may also pursue careers as user interface developers, remote sensing technologists and geospatial scientists. In addition, those who find employment in the field of cartography using geographic information systems will likely be employed as a geographic information specialist who uses GIS to update and create maps that present spatial information digitally.
What is the Salary Potential for a Bachelor’s in Geographic Information Science and Cartography Degree?
As is the case with nearly any position, salary potential depends on several factors, including location, level of experience, education, the specific employer and the position itself. For instance, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), cartographers and photogrammetrists earned an average of $64,430 per year as of May 2018. The top 10 percent earned more than $101,400, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $40,960. The median annual wages for these professionals in the highest-paying industries in which they worked were:
- Federal government: $91,910
- Local government, excluding hospitals and education: $63,990
- Management, scientific and technical consulting services: $62,160
- Engineering, architectural and related services: $61,050
- State government, excluding hospitals and education: $57,990
The BLS also indicates that landscape architects and surveyors reported similar salaries during the same time period, earning $68,230 and $62,580, respectively. Those interested in a broader career as a geographer can expect to earn $80,300 per year, or $38,60 per hour, according to the BLS. The top 10 percent of geographers earned more than $109,900, while the lowest 10 percent brought home less than $50,720.
What Will You Study in an Undergraduate Geographic Information Science and Cartography Degree Program?
An undergraduate degree in geographic information science and cartography is ideal for students interested in managing, analyzing, manipulating, storing and capturing various types of spacial or geographical data. Although curriculum requirements will vary according to the school and specific degree, most programs include key courses within a geographic information systems curriculum such as:
- Geographic Information Technologies
- Information Technology Portfolio Planning
- Computer Platforms Technology
- Information Technology Communications
- Geospatial Programming
- Cyber Law and Ethics
- Database Management and Design
- Website Design
Most bachelor’s programs in this field are offered as a bachelor’s degree in geography with a concentration in geographic information science. Due to the practical nature of the work, most programs feature both research and academic elements. Undergraduates will develop knowledge of GIS theory and practice in both basic cartography and mapping. In addition, undergraduates will learn how to display and manipulate text, plot nodes and vectors, produce overlays and import data tables.
Depending on the program, most undergraduates can earn their degree within four years of full-time enrollment. However, those looking to enter the workforce sooner may consider pursuing an accelerated program and graduate within two to three years instead.
Related Resource: What is Geostatistics?
Are There Any Professional Associations or Organizations for Geographic Information Scientists and Cartographers?
Joining a professional association offers members opportunities to connect with other students as well as experts and faculty members in the field. These organizations are also known for hosting conferences and events as well as offering mentorship and scholarship programs. Students may consider joining one of the following associations to gain access to members-only resources for continuing education and/or research.
- North American Cartographic Information Society
- Cartography and Geographic Information Society
- Geospatial Information and Technology Association
- Society of Women Geographers
- National Council for Geographic Education
- American Geographical Society
- American Association of Geographers
- Management Association for Private Photogrammetric Surveyors
Regardless of whether you are interested in a career as a cartographer, geospatial scientist or surveyor, an undergraduate degree opens the door to several rewarding and lucrative careers. As you begin to narrow down your options and potential schools, we hope the above list of the top 30 best affordable bachelor’s in geographic information science and cartography serves as a helpful starting point as you prepare for your next academic experience.
AS Staff
October 2019
This concludes our ranking of the top 30 best affordable bachelor’s in geographic information science and cartography degrees.
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