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GETTING STARTED:
Apply Now

We welcome new students to our programs. Applying is fast and easy, and we’re here to help.

Application Process

Follow the steps below to apply to a certificate or master's degree program, or to register to take an individual class for professional development.

If you need help at any time, we are happy to answer your questions. Email us at info@gis.psu.edu.

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Register
Register for an Individual Course

It is possible to enroll in one of our classes without being admitted to a certificate or master’s program. For many students, starting with one class is a great way to try online learning with Penn State.

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Certificate
Apply to a Certificate Program

Applications are accepted year-round for our five certificate programs. Prospective students with a baccalaureate degree are eligible to apply.

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Masters
Apply to a Master’s Program

Prospective students can apply directly to a master’s degree program or start courses as a certificate student and apply via accelerated admission (if eligible).

Take a Single Course

We offer over 30 online courses in the geospatial field. You can register for a single course for professional development without entering a certificate or degree program. Eligible students must have completed a baccalaureate degree.

How it works:

Complete the Graduate School Online Application
Select Nondegree Admission – $30.00. You will then have the option to choose World Campus and the semester you want to start. Note that once registered for a single course, if you choose to continue taking courses as a certificate student, you will complete the application process again — this time for your desired program.

Register Online Using LionPATH
LionPATH is our course registration system. You will be able to register after your application is accepted.

If you have any difficulties, or would like assistance, please email info@gis.psu.edu. We’re here to make the process as easy as possible!

Apply to a Certificate Program

Eligible students must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution and a TOEFL score (when applicable) of at least 80 (IBT exam), 550 (paper-based exam), or 213 (computer-based exam).

Fifteen credits from a certificate can be counted toward one of our master’s degrees.

Certificate Programs:

How it works:

Complete the Graduate School Online Application
Select Certificate Admission – $65.00. You will then have the option to select World Campus and your certificate program of choice.

Register Online Using LionPATH
LionPATH is our course registration system. You will be able to register after your application is accepted and you have heard from your program advisor.

If you have any difficulties, or would like assistance, please email info@gis.psu.edu. We’re here to make the process as easy as possible!

Apply to a Master’s Program

In addition to the Graduate School’s application requirements, our master’s degree programs have additional requirements and procedures for applicants to follow. There are two ways to apply: via accelerated admission or regular admission. Email us at info@gis.psu.edu to inquire about which process works for you.

Accelerated admission: You can qualify for our accelerated application process for a master’s degree by earning a 3.67 GPA or above upon completion of your first three certificate program courses. A committee of online geospatial education faculty members reviews applications; admission is not based solely on GPA. Students enrolled in any of our certificate programs are eligible for this route of admission. Accelerated admission waives the requirement for letters of recommendation. Admission is year-round, but students should apply at least four (4) weeks prior to when they would like to start as a Master's student. 

Regular admission: We also accept applicants who do not wish to take courses as certificate students before joining the program or who do not meet the minimum GPA for accelerated admission. Your application must include two letters of recommendation. The MGIS and MS SDS Programs do not require the GRE. 

Application due dates are April 1, July 1, and November 1. In order for your application to be considered, you must have all of your materials, including references, submitted by the due date. Please be sure to make your recommenders aware of the date their letter is due.

Master’s Programs:

How it works:

Complete the Graduate School Online Application
Select World Campus and your desired degree program. For both admission options, you will need: 1) official transcripts from previous academic institutions, 2) a resume, and 3) a personal statement of your experience and goals. If you are applying via Accelerated Admissions, leave the test scores and letters of recommendation sections blank, as they are not necessary for that admissions process. 

Your professional statement is a 2-3 page statement in which you highlight your strengths, achievements, and career aspirations. Discuss what you hope to gain from taking part in the program. Are there specific courses that you want to take that will enable you to achieve your goals? Your resume may be used as a supplement, but the essay itself should demonstrate your verbal communication skills

Register Online Using LionPATH
LionPATH is our course registration system. You will be able to register after your application is accepted and you have heard from your program advisor.

If you have any difficulties or would like assistance, please email info@gis.psu.edu. We’re here to make the process as easy as possible!

Tuition Assistance


All of our certificate and degree programs are eligible for federal financial aid.

Want the specifics on tuition, fees, and financial assistance?