Mar 28, 2024  
2018-2019 Academic Catalog 
    
2018-2019 Academic Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Interdisciplinary Studies M.S.: Geospatial Analysis of Human-Environmental Change Concentration


Peggy Hauselt, Ph.D., Director

Associate Professor:  Avwunudiogba, Hauselt
Assistant Professor: Díaz-Garayúa, McNally

Office:  Bizzini Hall 215

Phone:  (209) 667-3127

This program provides a strong foundation in geographic concepts and methods with in-depth course-work in geospatial technology and landscape analysis.  Particular strengths include migration and cultural landscape change, urban sustainability, fluvial geomorphology, and environmental and agricultural land cover change.  Our program’s regional focus is the western United States and Latin America.  Beyond the geographic core, students also work with a faculty member in a secondary discipline that informs and enhances their area of study.  Students complete courses in this secondary discipline in consultation with their committee.

The program is designed to prepare students for careers in geospatial technology. The program is also intended to prepare students interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in Geography or a related discipline. 

Admission Requirements

  1. Admission into the M.S. Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Geospatial Analysis of Human-Environmental Change will be limited first to those who meet the eligibility requirements for the graduate school and the department.  Applicants must have completed the following:
  2. Baccalaureate or graduate degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 3.0 for the last 60 units completed.
  3. Minimum of 18 upper-division geography or related coursework.
  4. Writing section of the GRE with a score of 3.5.

Program Requirements


(36 units)

To earn an M.S. Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Geospatial Analysis of Human-Environmental Change students must:

1. Complete the M.S. Interdisciplinary Studies Requirements including:

  1. A minimum of 36 units for an MS
  2. Only 4000 and 5000-level courses towards the semester units required in the MS Interdisciplinary Studies program.
  3. At least 25 units of 5000-level courses for the MS Interdisciplinary Studies.
  4. A minimum of 9 units other than geography, exclusive of research courses
  5. No more than 9 units of independent study are allowed.
  6. Six units of thesis or project.* Prior to enrolling in the thesis/project units students must have an approved Prospectus Form on file with the Graduate School. An oral defense is required.
  7. A maximum of 9 units of transfer credit are included in a student’s program. Extension credits are not acceptable.
  8. No more than 9 units completed prior to admission to the program are included in the student’s program.
  9. The IS program normally limits the CR/NC grading option to field studies, practica, and internships, not to exceed 20% of the required coursework. Exceptions will be reviewed by the IS Director.
  10. No grade below “B-” may be applied toward the IS degree. Exceptions will be reviewed by the IS Director.

*Note:  Alternative to a thesis/project is a comprehensive examination.  Additional elective (6 units) must be taken to replace the thesis/project units when the comprehensive examination option is selected.

2. Complete the specific requirements of the concentration in Geospatial Analysis of Human-Environmental Change:

(17 units)

Complete the following Geographic Foundation courses:


(7 units)

Complete the following Geospatial Analysis courses:


(6 units)