Advance your knowledge of Geographic Information Science (GIS) technology and tools that are applicable to a broad range of research fields and professional areas with the Certificate in Geographic Information Science. As a student in the program, you'll focus on principals of GIS, spatial analysis, spatial data management, and cartographic design. You'll also have access to Tufts Data Labs, full-service computing labs dedicated to geospatial technology, statistics, and data science which serve as a hub for GIS activities at Tufts and are designed to foster collaboration and innovation.

The certificate can be completed in 3 to 4 semesters and courses are offered in a flexible format, including in the evenings, weekends, and online.

Program Outcomes

GIS tools and data help researchers, policy-makers, and community members visualize, explore, and interpret information across space to understand spatial relationships, patterns, and trends. Demand for GIS skills is growing across many industries and disciplines. The GIS certificate will help you prepare for a career in GIS technology in a variety of professional industries or research domains including environmental studies, urban studies, public health, and more.

Application Requirements

Application Fee
Resume/CV
Personal Statement
Official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test, if applicable
Transcripts
One Letter of Recommendation

Tuition & Fees

GSAS bills tuition using a per-credit billing model, meaning you are billed for the number of credits you take each semester. This billing model is used to provide students better flexibility so they may "pay-as-they-go".

Tuition*	$1,049 per credit
Total Credits Required	12
Enrollment Status	Part-Time: 3-6 credits per semester (typically 1-2 courses)

Estimating Tuition Costs for this Program

The example pathway below outlines estimated tuition costs per semester using a typical course load. This is one possible pathway to completion; actual credits, costs, enrollment status, and degree completion time may vary based on a student’s course load:

Part-Time Pathway	Fall	Spring	Total
Year 1	6 credits	6 credits	12 credits
Year 1	$6,294	$6,294	$12,588
Estimated Total Tuition*			$12,588*

*Estimated based on 2026-2027 tuition rates. Rates are subject to change each academic year. For further information about the full cost of attendance, including health insurance, fees and estimated indirect costs (housing, transportation, etc.), visit Student Financial Services.

Funding Opportunities

While Tufts University does not offer institutional scholarships for certificate programs, we are committed to supporting students as they explore financing options. This program is eligible for federal loans. Additionally, the following opportunities are available:

City Year Corps members, alumni, and staff are eligible to receive a minimum scholarship award of 25% off tuition.
There are various work opportunities available for students across Tufts.
Students interested in exploring possible research pathways or other opportunities may discuss options directly with the Program Director.

Visit our Graduate Financial Aid page for information on loans and financing options.