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Degrees

The Geographic Information Systems, Spatial Technologies, Applications, and Research program offers a Master’s degree only.

Important: Transcripts and letters of recommendation are required of all applicants. 

See the test score requirements for this program.

  • You will upload this in the application.
  • Please describe your plans for graduate study or research and for your future occupation or profession. Include any information that may aid the selection committee in evaluating your preparation and qualifications for graduate study at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Recommended length is a concise 2-4 pages.
  • Required of all applicants. This statement will be used in conjunction with your application for graduate admission and financial support. Note that the personal history statement should not duplicate the statement of purpose. Recommended length is a concise 1-3 pages.
  • UC Santa Cruz is interested in a diverse and inclusive graduate student population. In an essay, discuss how your personal background informs your decision to pursue a graduate degree. Include any educational, familial, cultural, economic, or social experiences, challenges, or opportunities relevant to your academic journey; how you might contribute to social or cultural diversity within your chosen field; and/or how you might serve educationally underrepresented segments of society with your degree.
  • ​Please submit a project demonstration or work sample if you have GIS project experience. You will include this on the additional information section of the online application. This is optional; it is not required for your application to be considered for admission.

View all application deadlines

Contact information for UCSC Graduate Programs

Learn more about the GIS, Spatial Technologies, Applications, and Research M.A. program

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Last modified: Sep 01, 2025