Online M.S. in Spatial Computing

Ranked #51 in best online master’s in information technology programs by U.S. News & World Report.

About

The online M.S. in Spatial Computing teaches you to utilize location information, geographic information systems, sensors, and mobile technologies to accomplish day-to-day tasks. By providing a foundation in geographic information science, the program creates a path for those from diverse academic backgrounds to transition to an information systems career.

Students will develop expertise in:

  • Intelligent spatial information systems
  • Human-centered accessible technologies
  • Ethical, social, legal, and economic aspects of spatial information

Student Experiences

Admissions

We have rolling admissions, so you can apply and be accepted at any time. However, the following priority deadlines are recommended:

  • Fall semester: August 1
  • Spring semester: January 1

We will still review applications after these dates, but we may defer acceptance to the next semester.

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
    We will consider GPAs below 3.0 on a 4.0 scale on a case-by-case basis.
  • College-level algebra
  • Programming courses or experience
    Recommended but not required.

The admission evaluation process begins once we’ve received all of your application materials. Before you apply, please review the application instructions. When you’re ready to apply, please submit the following:

  • An online application
  • Current résumé or CV
  • Official academic transcripts from all institutions attended
  • A 300-500 word essay based on the following prompt

Curriculum

Throughout the program, you’ll work closely with the Steering Committee to develop a program of study that reflects your personal and professional goals.

The following courses are required (15 credits):

  • SIE 505: Formal Foundations for Information Science (3 credits)
    OR SIE 580: Ontology Engineering Theory and Practice (3 credits)
  • SIE 507: Information Systems Programming (3 credits)
  • SIE 509: Principles of Geographic Information Systems (3 credits)
  • SIE 510: Geographic Information Systems Applications (3 credits)
    OR SIE 512: Spatial Analysis (3 credits)
  • SIE 557: Database System Applications (3 credits)

Choose five courses from the following (15 credits):

  • SIE 508: Object-Oriented Programming (3 credits)
  • SIE 513: GeoAI (3 credits)
  • SIE 515: Human-Computer Interaction (3 credits)
  • SIE 516: Interactive Technologies for Solving Real-World Problems (3 credits)
  • SIE 517: Spatial Interaction Design (3 credits)
  • SIE 518: User Experience Design (3 credits)
  • SIE 550: Information System Design (3 credits)
  • SIE 554: Spatial Reasoning (3 credits) 
  • SIE 555: Spatial Database Systems (3 credits)
  • SIE 558: Real-Time Sensor Data Streams (3 credits)
  • SIE 559: Geosensor Networks (3 credits)
  • SIE 571: Machine Learning in Practice (3 credits)
  • SIE 590: Information Systems Internship (3-6 credits)
  • SIE 693: Graduate Seminar (1 credit)
Student studying with a spatial map on their computer

At a Glance

UMaineOnline

Maine College of Engineering & Computing


Degree Level

Master

Degree Earned

Master of Science in Spatial Computing

Recommended Application Deadlines

Fall Semester: August 1

Spring Semester: January 1

Mode of Study

Online

Number of Credits

30 Credits

UMaineOnline

Maine College of Engineering & Computing


Degree Level

Master

Degree Earned

Master of Science in Spatial Computing

Recommended Application Deadlines

Fall Semester: August 1

Spring Semester: January 1

Mode of Study

Online

Number of Credits

30 Credits

Cost Per Credit Hour

E-Rate

$651

Photo of Kimberly Lai

Contact

Kimberly Lai, M.A.

UMaineOnline Advisor

umaine.edu/online

P

207.581.8041