Earn an Online Master of Science in Geography from LSU
Develop advanced knowledge in geographic theory, spatial analysis, and geospatial technologies.
Gain experience with modern mapping software and analytical tools used in professional practice.
Apply geographic research and analysis to real-world environmental, social, and spatial problems.
Accredited
Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
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Admissions
Whether you’re returning to school or advancing your career, our admissions team is here to support you every step of the way.
Apply by
May 11, 2026
Classes begin
May 25, 2026
Admission Requirements
The entry-level education is a B.A. or B.S. in Geography or similar field. No work experience is required but writing samples are useful during the application process.
Admission into the LSU Graduate Program is required before enrolling in the online M.S. in Geography program. Additional information about LSU Graduate admission requirements is located below and here.
Required Application Materials
Statement of Purpose:
- We highly encourage applicants to reach out to a faculty member they are interested in working with. Details about faculty members with contact information can be found here. Please list the faculty member(s) in your statement of purpose.
- It is not expected that you will have a specific research idea in mind; however, we encourage you to explain the reasons why you wish to attend LSU, along with your general research interests. Specific research ideas are also welcome.
- All Transcripts - unofficial transcripts can be submitted at time of application but official transcripts are required upon acceptance to program.
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- English Proficiency test score (if applicable) - An applicant whose native language is not English and/or who has been educated outside of the U.S. in a country or province where English is not the only official language must demonstrate proof of English proficiency by submitting either a TOEFL iBT, an IELTS, PTE, Michigan Test, or a Duolingo English score before the application is evaluated for admission. More information about English proficiency requirements and exemptions can be found here.
The Department of Geography and Anthropology does not require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) as part of your application package (as of January 2023).
We believe in letting every applicant showcase their academic and research success in whatever form that may take, such as research projects, competitions, exams, awards, experiences, etc.
If an applicant feels the GRE provides key information not evident from other aspects of their application, they are welcome to submit official scores. We do not use GRE cutoffs or other quantitative rankings. We consider any submitted test scores as one aspect of academic achievement, and we take a holistic approach to evaluating any application received.
Flexible Schedule
Our program is built for busy adults with work and family commitments. Learn on your schedule with 24/7 access to course materials.
No required login times
Complete coursework when it works for you
Stay on track with weekly goals
Perfect for full-time workers and parents
Tuition
LSU programs offer competitive, flat-rate tuition with no out-of-state fees, making it easier to plan for the cost of your degree. You may also be able to save more by transferring eligible credits.
Tuition & Fees
- 31 credit hours
- Total credit hours per program
- $725
- Cost per credit hour
- $22,475
- Total cost with fees
The total cost above does not include transfer credit or financial aid. Cost per credit hour and fees are subject to change. Fee schedules may vary by program depending on course-specific fees for proctoring and/or books. Please contact a Student Success Coach for more information.
Financial Aid Available
LSU offers several ways to help you pay for your degree including credit for prior learning (PLA), financial aid, and veteran education benefits. Learn More.
Academics
The LSU M.S. in Geography program has a rich history, dating back to 1933, making it one of the oldest and most respected geography programs in the nation.
What Will I Learn?
The LSU online Master of Science in Geography aims to develop skills in students such as advanced GIS and remote sensing analysis, spatial data management and geospatial modeling, environmental impact assessment and resource management, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and technical report writing and science communication.
Student Learning Outcomes:
- Advanced knowledge of subject matter in one of the specialized research areas of geography identified at the MS level.
- Demonstrate the ability to conceptualize and design a research plan with a reasonable theoretical framework, formulate an appropriate method for a research study, and develop original ideas for independent research that “spin off” from the results of the thesis project.
- Analyze and synthesize the literature in a specialized research focus.
- Communicate effectively in verbal, written, visual, and/or technological forms, as required by the thesis research.
Courses
The online MS in Geography requires 31 credit hours to earn your degree, including 4 hours of core courses, 6 hours of thesis research, and 21 hours of additional elective coursework.
Students choose at least ONE of two Graduate Certificates to fulfill elective hours + remaining elective hours.
Your personal credit requirements could be less depending on transferable credits and credit earned from prior learning assessments.
| Core Courses | Type | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
GEOG 7901: Introduction to Graduate Study |
Core |
1 |
GEOG 7902: Introduction to Research Methos |
Core |
3 |
GEOG 8000: Thesis Research |
Core |
6 |
| Graduate Certificate in GIS - 12 Credit Hours | Type | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
GEOG 4045: Environmental Remote Sensing |
Elective |
3 |
GEOG 4047: Geographic Information Systems |
Elective |
3 |
GEOG 7973: Advanced Geographic Information Systems |
Elective |
3 |
GEOG 7975: Advanced Remote Sensing Seminar |
Elective |
3 |
| Graduate Certificate in Crime Mapping& Geospatial Intelligence Analytics - 15 Credit Hours | Type | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
SOCL 4461: Criminology |
Elective |
3 |
GEOG 4047: Geographic Information Systems |
Elective |
3 |
GEOG 4048: Methods of Spatial Analysis |
Elective |
3 |
SOCL 7901: Selected Topics in Geography |
Elective |
3 |
GEOG 7911: Independent Reading |
Elective |
3 |
GEOG 7945: Socioeconomic Applications of GIS |
Elective |
3 |
Testimonials
At LSU, our online MS in Geography empowers you to harness cutting-edge geospatial technologies—turning maps, data, and spatial analysis into powerful tools for solving today’s most pressing environmental, social, and economic challenges. As part of a nearly 100-year-old academic department, you’ll learn from internationally recognized faculty whose expertise and mentorship will prepare you to lead in the rapidly growing geospatial technology field. You'll graduate with training and certifications focused on utilizing state-of-the-art geospatial technology to answer real-world problems.
Careers
This degree can open doors to leadership roles in environmental consulting, geographic information systems, urban planning, and government agencies.
Career Opportunities
- GIS analyst
- GIS consultant
- Environmental consultant
- Urban/regional planner
- Remote sensing scientist
- Natural resource manager
- Cartographer
- Geospatial data scientist
- Climate change analyst
- Hydrologist
- Environmental scientist
