Lisa Benvenuti
Spatial Research Manager, Institute for Geospatial Impact
Institute for Geospatial Impact
A hub for geographic discovery, innovation, applied research, service, and community, the Institute for Geospatial Impact (IGI) fosters the use of geographic information systems (GIS) and related technologies to advance the university's academic mission.
About
A strong partner with geospatial industry leader, Esri, the IGI thrives on the cutting-edge application of the company's innovative technologies in higher education. The IGI designs spatial instructional activities, supports spatial instruction, and teaches GIS courses; engages in interdisciplinary spatial research; creates opportunities for spatial students to participate in community-based service-learning projects; fits students to spatial internships and career opportunities; organizes spatial networking events; and supports the use of GIS for campus planning, operations, maintenance, and sustainability.
Mission
The Institute for Geospatial Impact (IGI) is a hub for geographic discovery, innovation, practical application, service, and community at the University of Redlands. The IGI:
- Fosters the use of geographic information systems (GIS) and related technologies to advance the university's mission to welcome, educate, and empower a diverse community of learners for lives of meaning, impact, and joy.
- Thrives on collaborations with geospatial industry leader, Esri, as an early adopter and cutting-edge user of the company's innovative technologies in higher education.
- Designs spatial instructional activities and supports spatially enabled courses across the curriculum.
- Engages in interdisciplinary spatial research with students and faculty.
- Creates opportunities for students to participate in community-based service-learning projects and internships that apply spatial thinking perspectives and geospatial technologies.
- Organizes events at which students, faculty, and staff share their expertise and accomplishments.
- Employs geospatial technologies to support campus planning, operations, maintenance, and sustainability.
- Promotes access to career opportunities for students by matching students to spatial internships and job placements at Esri, federal and other governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), private businesses, and the university itself.
- Provides opportunities for students through local, regional, national, and international community service and research projects to engage in social action, solve real-world problems, and help create a better future for all of us.
Academic Programs
Explore current geospatial program offerings, including Bachelor’s programs in GIS, Master's degrees, and certificates. Navigate toward impactful service learning and a meaningful career.
Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems
MS GIS program combines the development of strong technical skills and in-depth understanding of geographic information systems and theory. Students will work with a client and apply their skills to identify, design, implement, and present a GIS solution to solve a real-world problem with their Major Individual Project. On Campus | 10 or 21 months
Master of Geographic Information Systems
Master of Geographic Information Systems (MGIS) degree is designed for professionals who look for an accelerated program to enhance their knowledge of the analysis, management, and communication of geographic information. On Campus, 8 months | Online 20 months
Executive Master of Geographic Information Systems
The Executive Master of Geographic Information Systems (EMGIS) is designed for mid- to senior-level professionals aiming to lead GIS-driven organizations. It combines technical, methodological, strategic, and leadership training to support effective GIS management across sectors. Online | 9–12 months
Master of Business Administration: Location Analytics Concentration
The Location Analytics Concentration trains professionals to solve business problems using spatial analytics. Students build flexible skills in geographic approaches to business analysis and apply them in a capstone project focused on strategy or consultancy, culminating in a practical report
Master of Science in Business Analytics
The Master of Science in Business Analytics equips students with business knowledge, analytical skills, and ethical data use to drive informed decisions. Graduates become BI analysts and strategic leaders who bridge the gap between technical teams and business users. The program culminates in a real-world capstone project applying analytics to solve organizational challenges.
Graduate Certificate in GIS
This certificate program introduces working professionals to the fundamentals of GIS, including data creation, cartographic presentation, Python scripting, and web GIS development. It’s ideal for those new to GIS or looking to apply it meaningfully within their field. On-campus and online.
Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems
Through the Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems program at University of Redlands, you'll build an advanced GIS skillset for a high-demand career. The program offers a unique blend of hands-on experience with cutting-edge GIS technology, personalized mentorship, real-world problem-solving, and a close relationship with Esri, the global leader in GIS, headquartered right here in Redlands.
Bachelor of Arts in Geographic Information Systems
The Bachelor of Arts in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) program will prepare you for high-demand careers across a wide range of fields and disciplines. You will be provided with unrivaled GIS education through distinctive program features that include applied GIS technology, one-on-one mentorship, real-world problem solving, and a close relationship with Esri – the global leader in GIS, headquartered locally in Redlands.
Spatial Studies Minor
The undergraduate spatial minor consists of two required courses (Foundations of Spatial Thinking and Introduction to Spatial Analysis and GIS), four elective courses chosen from nearly 50 offerings, and a student portfolio. In addition to equipping students with in-demand spatial thinking skills, the minor strengthens pathways to internships, careers, and graduate school.
Help & Resources
Contact spatialstudies@redlands.edu with any questions, including University of Redlands drone policy.
Esri Apps
With your University of Redlands login, you have access to various Esri web applications that will showcase your maps and data and will allow you to share your research in engaging and compelling ways.
Take your next steps
Seize the endless opportunities and pursue your future at University of Redlands.