What GIS Careers Can You Get With an MPA?
| 3 Min Read
GIS plays an important role in public administration by offering powerful tools for managing data and making decisions. GIS applications solve real-life problems and improve a range of public services that include resource management, crime analysis and transportation planning.
Those seeking a career in GIS can learn the skills they need to succeed by completing the online Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) program at Eastern Oregon University (EOU). Through Geographic Information Systems I and II courses, learners build a solid foundation for understanding and applying geographic data to public policy challenges.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, GIS is “a computer system that analyzes and displays geographically referenced information” and “uses data that is attached to a unique location.” In simpler terms, State Tech Magazine notes that GIS allows agencies to tackle issues from a geographic viewpoint, using both internal and external location-based data to make more informed and improved decisions.
How Is GIS Useful in Public Administration?
GIS has truly changed the way government agencies operate. GIS systems give professionals access to advanced mapping and data analysis, helping agencies make informed decisions that benefit their communities. According to State Tech, GIS is instrumental in areas like disaster response, public safety and infrastructure planning.
To put that into the context of everyday impact, transportation agencies use GIS data to optimize road networks and plan future expansions. Law enforcement agencies rely on GIS to map crime patterns, helping allocate resources more effectively. Overall, GIS enhances efficiency and transparency, making it a crucial tool for public administrators.
Types of GIS Jobs
A deep understanding of GIS opens the door to many opportunities for employment, especially in public administration. Knowing where, when and how to apply GIS technology is valuable for policy analysts, community development managers, government relations managers and more. Each of these professionals can benefit from access to GIS data:
Policy Analysts
Policy analysts assess and evaluate data to inform their decision-making. GIS helps them visualize data trends, which can inform choices about resource allocation and public programs. Policy analysts typically analyze economic, social and political situations and use the results to inform solutions to community issues. They can also work in environmental policy, using GIS to monitor and report on land use or natural resource management. Policy analysts earn an average salary of $65,011 annually, according to PayScale.
Community Development Managers
This role focuses on improving the well-being of communities by managing public projects like affordable housing and health initiatives. GIS plays an important role here, as managers use data to track demographic changes, economic development trends and environmental factors. According to Talent.com, the average salary for a community development manager in the United States is $82,922 per year or $39.87 per hour.
Government Relations Managers
Government relations managers work to support laws that help their organization. They work closely with public relations officers to gain the support of government officials and the public. Their job is to influence policy and ensure their organization’s interests are considered in new laws. GIS helps them present data-driven arguments to support their cases, such as mapping the economic impact of proposed infrastructure projects. According to Talent.com, the average salary for a government relations manager in the United States is $106,241 per year or $51.08 per hour.
By combining public administration skills with GIS expertise, people who are interested in a public sector career have the skills to improve public services and infrastructure. Graduates of EOU’s program can pursue a number of roles that use these public administration skills.
Pursuing a Career in Geographic Information Systems
The growing importance of GIS in public administration opens up many opportunities for those equipped with the right skills. From analyzing crime trends to managing environmental assessments and community development projects, GIS plays an important role in shaping the future of public services. Graduates from Eastern Oregon University’s online M.P.A. program are well positioned to take on these rewarding roles, making a real difference in their communities.
Learn more about Eastern Oregon University’s online Master of Public Administration program.