GEO - Geospatial Sciences Major

Satellite overview of a global position

Geospatial Science Major

Major

Geospatial science courses are taught with extensive hands-on use of digital technology in the Geographic Science Laboratory (GSL) and the field. Cadets use Global Positioning Systems (GPS), view and analyze satellite imagery, build map databases, and produce maps with state-of-the-art hardware and software.

Offered by the Department of Geography & Earth Sciences.

Are you interested in maps, satellites, drones, and the power of location-based data? Do you want to combine high-tech tools with real-world applications in military, humanitarian, and global operations? The Geospatial Sciences major at the United States Military Academy at West Point offers an exciting and in-demand path for future leaders who want to see the world differently - and use that knowledge to make smart, strategic decisions.

What is Geospatial Sciences?

Geospatial Sciences is the study of how to collect, analyze, and visualize data tied to specific places on Earth. It brings together geography, technology, and data analysis to understand patterns, solve problems, and support decision-making in both military and civilian contexts. At West Point, this major prepares cadets to use tools like Geographic Information Systems (GIS), satellite imagery, remote sensing, and drone technology to support Army operations and global missions.

Why Choose Geospatial Sciences at USMA?

  • Mission-Driven and Technically Advanced
    In modern military operations, geospatial intelligence is critical - from battlefield planning to humanitarian relief. Cadets gain skills the Army urgently needs.
  • Hands-On, Tech-Focused Training
    From drone flights to satellite image analysis, cadets get real experience using the latest tools in geospatial technology.
  • STEM with Strategy
    This major is a blend of science, technology, and strategic thinking - perfect for future leaders who want to make decisions based on accurate, real-time data.
  • Career-Ready for Army and Beyond
    Geospatial skills are highly valued in military intelligence, combat arms, engineering, and also in civilian careers like emergency response, city planning, or national security.

Where This Major Can Go

A Geospatial Sciences degree from West Point opens doors to:

  • Serve as an Army officer specializing in geospatial intelligence, engineering, or cyber operations
  • Work with agencies like the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), FEMA, or NASA
  • Launch a career in smart cities, climate analysis, or global logistics
  • Go to grad school in GIS, environmental science, or data science
  • Use mapping and data to lead missions, respond to crises, and shape the future

Interested Cadets

Are you into maps, satellites, drones, or data that helps people make better decisions? The Geospatial Sciences major at West Point gives you the tools to collect, visualize, and analyze geographic data - and use it to solve real-world problems.

Whether you’re planning an Army mission, responding to a natural disaster, or managing city growth, geospatial skills are in high demand. This major prepares you to lead with data and see the world from a whole new perspective. It also offers an honors track.

Why Consider This Major

For the cadet who enjoys maps, drones, tech tools, solving puzzles, or working with data, Geospatial Sciences gives them the chance to turn those interests into real-world impact. At West Point, cadets learn how to gather, analyze, and apply spatial data to lead effectively on and off the battlefield.

This is a great major for cadets who want to mix STEM, strategy, and service - and who are excited to work at the intersection of technology and terrain. 

What Cadets Learn

Geospatial Sciences is all about combining geography, technology, and analysis to understand the "where" behind the world's biggest challenges. You’ll dive into:

  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) – software that helps you analyze and visualize spatial data
  • Remote Sensing – using satellite and drone imagery to see and study the Earth
  • Cartography – creating powerful, clear, and accurate maps
  • Spatial Analysis – solving problems using location-based data
  • Geodesy & GPS – understanding Earth’s shape and how to pinpoint exact locations

Cadets also work with real geospatial tools and data used by the Army and top global organizations.

Choice of Electives

Cadets can shape their experience with electives such as:

  • Geospatial Intelligence – apply data to understand and predict human activity
  • Drone Mapping and Analysis – learn how to collect and use aerial data
  • Advanced GIS and 3D Mapping – take your geospatial skills to the next level
  • Geospatial Big Data – manage and analyze massive datasets
  • Geospatial Applications in Security and Defense – focus on how location data supports national security

Learn More

Cadets in this major can work with a Department of Geography and Earth Sciences (GEO) research center and engage in any number of domestic or international Academic Individual Advanced Development (AIAD) programs, USMA-run academic enrichment experiences.

Examples of GEO-specific AIADs:

  • Helicopter Landing Zone Analysis (CO, AK, HI, Kwajalein Atoll)
  • National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (St. Louis, MO, and Washington, D.C.)
  • Army Geospatial Center (Washington, D.C.)
  • Geospatial Research Lab (Washington, D.C)
  • North Slope Unmanned Aerial Surveying (AK)
  • Combat Capabilities Development Command (MD)

Learn more about GEO’s AIAD opportunities.

Examples of research:

  • Detection of seasonal Arctic terrain change using a small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS)
  • Resolution analysis of helicopter landing zones
  • Eagle Valley Cemetery veteran tracking
  • Machine learning exploration of Armed Conflict Location and Event Data (ACLED) for regional predictive analysis
  • GIS modeling of lead transport on firing ranges
  • Lidar scanner stability and accuracy assessments

Honor Societies: 

To learn more about enrichment for this area of study, visit the Department of Geography & Earth Sciences or the Center for Environmental & Geographic Sciences (CEGS).

The Geospatial Science major is accredited by the U.S. Geospatial-Intelligence Foundation (USGIF).