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The Master of Science in Geography with a specialization in Cartography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) caters to professionals specializing in spatial mapping and analytical work. In addition to the 10-credit General MS core requirements, students must complete 16 more credits (or 19 if the Methods course isn't GIS-focused), plus electives to reach the 34-40 credit degree requirement. Candidates must develop and defend either a thesis or publishable articles before an examination committee. Alternatively, they may complete and defend a professional paper or publishable articles. The key distinction lies in focus: a thesis contributes to academic advancement within the discipline, while a professional paper advances professional practice. A professional paper may also comprise one or more journal-ready articles for peer-reviewed publication.