Curriculum and program structure
Master spatial analysis through practical learning, flexible degree options, and industry-focused curriculum.
The Master of Spatial Analysis (MSA) combines advanced geographic information systems (GIS), spatial statistics, location intelligence, and data management. Designed for both full-time students and working professionals, our program lets you tailor your degree to match your career and research goals.
Learning outcomes
The MSA provides a comprehensive skillset in spatial analyses and data management. Through immersive practice, you will be prepared for specialized roles and careers in a variety of industries.
- Develop a comprehensive skillset in spatial analyses and data management.
- Apply geographic information systems (GIS) practically in lectures and labs.
- Analyze case studies to better understand and solve complex spatial challenges.
Program structure
Our program offers flexible pathways to fit your academic and professional needs, including a professionally oriented one-year program or research intensive two-year program.
- Complete a professionally oriented one-year program or a research intensive two-year program.
- Gain hands-on experience through GIS application in lectures and labs.
- Connect classroom learning to real-world challenges
The typical schedule to complete the MSA program on a full-time basis starting in the Fall (MRP = major research paper):
- September to December: four core courses; develop ideas for MRP
- January to April: two elective courses and internship; start work on MRP
- April 30th: MRP proposal due
- May to August: research and writing of MRP
- May 31st: literature review due
- June 30th: analysis completed
- July 31st: complete MRP draft due to supervisor
- Mid-August to early September: oral defence of MRP
- By mid-September: required MRP revisions completed and submitted to the Yeates School of Graduate Studies
- Tailor your degree to match your career and research goals as a working professional.
- Apply GIS in lectures and labs while balancing your current career commitments.
- Part-time students with suitable jobs are exempted from the practicum requirement in the program.
The typical schedule to complete the MSA program on a part-time basis starting this Fall (MRP = major research paper):
- September to December: two core courses; develop ideas for MRP
- January to April: two elective courses; develop ideas for MRP
- April 30th: MRP short proposal due
- May to August: start work on MRP
- August 31st: literature review due
- September to December: two core courses (coursework now finished); work on MRP
- December 31st: methods chapter due
- January to July: research and writing of MRP
- April 30th: analysis completed
- July 31st: complete MRP draft due to supervisor
- Mid-August to early September: oral defence of MRP
- By mid-September: required MRP revisions completed and submitted to the Yeates School of Graduate Studies
MRP and thesis
Depending on your chosen academic pathway, your degree culminates in a major research paper or thesis. This project allows you to combine the power of geography and spatial analysis to develop solutions for natural and built environments.
Are you involved in a faculty member’s research project and consider pursuing a doctoral degree or working in a research-intensive environment? The MSA thesis option extends the program by one or two terms, and requires the student to write a thesis instead of an MRP. Unlike other one-year Master’s programs, the MRP in the MSA program consists of original research that is often of publishable quality (see “Publications” page). However, the thesis option allows for longer involvement in academic research and a more in-depth treatment of the student’s research topic.
Internship
Gain practical industry experience through a professional work placement. Internships allow you to learn while building a professional resume so you can graduate with real-world experience.