Doctor of Philosophy in Geospatial Information Sciences

The mission of the PhD in Geospatial Information Sciences degree program is to cultivate innovative researchers capable of advancing the frontiers of knowledge in the geospatial information sciences through improved theories, new technologies, innovative methodologies, sophisticated quantitative analyses and integrative applications.

Jointly offered by the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences, the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, this unique program reflects geospatial information science’s origins at the confluence of multiple disciplines including geography, computer science, engineering, geology and various social, policy and applied sciences.

Unlike programs at other schools in which geospatial information sciences is offered as a concentration within traditional geography, geology, environmental science or engineering programs, the degree at UT Dallas is devoted solely to GIS, focusing on advancement of the technology, its associated theory, and the enhancement of its application in a variety of substantive areas. As such, it provides a unique option for students wishing to concentrate in this inherently cross-disciplinary area.

Graduates find employment in the burgeoning geospatial technology industry, in research departments of public and private organizations and in major academic institutions because of their ability to build bridges to other disciplines.

Degree requirements: Bachelor's, master of arts, master of science or professional master's level degree in any field relevant to geospatial information science including, but not limited to, computer science, economics, engineering, geography, geology, management information systems, marketing, natural resource management, public affairs and public administration, statistics, and urban and regional planning

GPA: A grade average of at least 3.25 in undergraduate and graduate course work.

English proficiency requirements

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT (Internet-based test) Minimum score: 80

TOEFL PBT (paper-based test) Minimum score: 550

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Minimum score: 6.5

Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE) Minimum score: 67

Completion of Level 112 at an ELS Language Center

Duolingo English Test Minimum score: 105

Application Deadlines: Fall term - January 15 (Early), May 1 (Regular); Spring term - May 15 (Early), October 1 (Regular).