MBA with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Option
Program Overview
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Option is a unique graduate program that combines business acumen with spatial analysis and mapping skills. This interdisciplinary program prepares students to leverage GIS technology in business decision-making, spatial analysis, and data-driven strategy.
Curriculum Requirements
To earn the MBA with GIS Option, students must successfully complete 11 courses (33 credits), comprising:
6 Core CoursesFoundational courses providing a solid business foundation
- MBA 5500 - Quantitative Modeling
- MBA 5550 - Marketing Management
- MBA 5640 - Financial Management
- MBA 5660 - Operations Management
- MBA 5670 - Management of Information Systems
- MBA 5680 - Organizational Behavior & Group Dynamics
4 Required CoursesApplied management, accounting and GIS principles
- MBA 5900 - Management Simulation
- MBA 5010 - Accounting From a Management Perspective
- GEO 5810 - Introduction to Geographic Information Science
- GEG 5820 - Remote Sensing
1 Elective CoursePersonalized customization from 3 approved options
- GEG 5830 - GIS: Building Geodatabases
- GEG 4910 - GIS Programming
- GEO 5880 - Geospatial Data Models
Program Objectives
- Develop business leaders with expertise in GIS and spatial analysis
- Enhance decision-making skills using geospatial data
- Foster strategic thinking and problem-solving with GIS applications
- Prepare students for careers in GIS management, consulting, and research
- Cultivate collaboration and communication skills in interdisciplinary teams
Program Features
- Interdisciplinary curriculum integrating business, GIS, and spatial analysis
- Expert faculty with industry experience in GIS and business
- Hands-on training with industry-leading GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS)
- Real-world projects and case studies in GIS applications
- Collaborative learning environment with peers from diverse backgrounds
Program Benefits
- Enhanced career prospects in GIS and business
- Developed expertise in spatial analysis and mapping
- Improved decision-making skills using geospatial data
- Increased earning potential
- Networking opportunities with GIS professionals
Target Audience
- Working professionals in GIS, urban planning, or environmental management
- Business analysts and consultants seeking GIS skills
- Recent graduates in geography, business, or related fields
- Government agency professionals
- Individuals seeking career advancement or transition
Tentative MBA schedule
This tentative schedule is intended to help guide students in understanding what their MBA in GIS could look like at EIU. It outlines a three-semester plan and shows how the GIS concentration can be completed either in an in-person or online format. The schedule is provided for reference only, and students should consult their academic advisor to develop an individualized plan that reflects their start term, course availability, and program requirements. Courses marked with an asterisk (*) indicate tentative online offerings.
View the Tentative MBA Schedule for the GIS option here.