M.A. Advising
The GISTAR program has a faculty director and co-director who work together with the Environmental Studies Department’s graduate programs coordinator and a staff program administrator to manage admissions, satisfaction of degree requirements, financial aid awards, and curriculum. Contact them by email to arrange a virtual or in-person meeting for questions on these topics.
Key contacts
Bo Yang
- Title
- Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies
Jeffrey T Bury
- Title
- Department Chair and Professor
Amy Kaskowitz Profitt
- Title
- ENVS Graduate Program Coordinator
Nasheli G Hau-Gutierrez
- Title
- Advisor, ENVS Internship Program
Resources
Curriculum
Our two-year master’s curriculum includes a set of six required core courses (one of which is a three-part lab), one development or applications course, up to two elective courses, and a two-quarter capstone project.
Categories of coursework
- Foundational core courses: These courses, offered sequentially in the first year, provide a robust foundation in geospatial theory and technologies. Topics include GIS principles and spatial modeling, advanced analytical methods, spatial data modeling and project design, remote sensing, and digital cartography. Each core course is paired with a lab component to provide hands-on experience.
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) development courses: These courses focus on advanced geospatial applications and analysis, including computer programming in Python, web mapping, database management, and spatial analysis in R. Students will explore cutting-edge topics such as Web GIS, machine learning, and the integration of geospatial AI technology.
- Geospatial technologies and applications training: This category emphasizes the application of advanced technologies—including 3D/CAD systems, drone mapping and image processing, aerial technologies, integration of geospatial AI for real-time mapping and analysis, field-based advanced GPS and surveying systems, and server/infrastructure development and management—to trending topics such as marine science, wildfire spatial modeling, and environmental justice.
- Immersive final research project: In this capstone experience, students will integrate their knowledge and skills into real-world spatial research projects through a two-quarter capstone. Collaborating with faculty across campus, they will contribute to ongoing and future projects, gaining valuable experience in environmental modeling and other key areas.
Planner
First year
- Fall, Total Credits (12): GIST/ENVS 215A – Intro to GIS (5 Credits); GIST/ENVS 215L – Lab (2 Credits); GIST 220: Cartography and Visualization (5 Credits)
- Winter, Total Credits (12): GIST/ENVS 215B – Intermediate GIS (5 Credits); GIST/ENVS 215L – Lab (2 Credits); GIST 230: Remote Sensing (5 Credits)
- Spring, Total Credits (12): GIST/ENVS 215C – Advanced GIS (5 Credits); GIST/ENVS 215L – Lab (2 Credits); Elective Course – optional (5 Credits)
Second year
- Fall, Total Credits (10): GIST 240: Development and Programming or GIST 250: Geospatial Technical Applications (5 Credits); Elective Course – required (5 Credits)
- Winter, Total Credits (10): GIST 290A: Capstone Project (10 Credits)
- Spring, Total Credits (10): GIST 290B: Capstone Project (10 Credits)
Academic standing and grading policies
- Registration for academic standing: Students must register full-time for a minimum of three quarters at a UC campus, with at least two of the three quarters registered at UCSC, to receive a master’s.
- Academic progress, good standing policy, and academic probation
- Graduate student grading policy
- Graduation: By the end of the second week of instruction in the quarter you intend to graduate, you must file an Application for Degree form with the Division of Graduate Studies.
Professional organizations
To support professional development and networking, students are encouraged to join relevant organizations, which provide valuable resources, such as conferences, publications, and research opportunities:
- American Association of Geographers (AAG): A platform for geography professionals, offering resources, networking, and research opportunities.
- Association of Collegiate Schools of Planning (ACSP): Connects urban planners and educators for knowledge sharing and collaboration.
- American Geophysical Union (AGU): Focuses on Earth and space sciences, with strong connections to geospatial technology and remote sensing.
- Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (URISA): Provides GIS professionals with training, networking, and certification opportunities.
- International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ISPRS): A key organization for those interested in remote sensing and photogrammetry.
By joining these professional networks and leveraging the skills gained in the GISTAR program, graduates are well-positioned to advance in academia, industry, or government roles, driving innovation and tackling global challenges through geospatial science and technology.