Maryville University has forged a new partnership with the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) that will open up cutting-edge opportunities for students to engage in real-world research and problem-solving in geospatial intelligence and cybersecurity.
The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) will provide Maryville students and faculty with access to unclassified NGA data, commercial imagery, and mentorship from NGA experts. Students will use this access to tackle pressing issues, from cybersecurity threats to mapping and analysis challenges, while building skills that will prepare them for careers in high-demand fields.
“This agreement represents an extraordinary opportunity for our students to apply what they learn in the classroom to shape our nation, support industry, and strengthen our communities,” said Dr. Scott Chadwick, Executive Vice President/Provost at Maryville University. “Partnering with NGA not only enriches our academic programs, but also positions our graduates to thrive in industries where geospatial and cybersecurity expertise is in growing demand.”
Maryville students will benefit directly through:
- Hands-on research projects using NGA-provided geospatial data and open-source intelligence.
- Mentorship and training from NGA professionals.
- Guest speakers and workshops to deepen classroom learning.
- Opportunities to showcase research to NGA and other intelligence community leaders.
The partnership will also support geospatial-intelligence (GEOINT) research, analysis, and production through collaborative research projects that advance the field by integrating GIS, infrastructure, cybersecurity, assessments, and geospatial data to strengthen community planning, preparedness, and resilience.
Maryville’s Cyber Security Center of Excellence will serve as a hub for this collaboration, giving students practical experience in a virtual lab environment that mirrors the complexity of real-world challenges.
“This partnership reflects NGA’s commitment to working with local universities to inspire and prepare the next generation of intelligence and technology leaders,” said an NGA spokesperson. “Maryville students will gain experience that not only advances their careers but also contributes to the security and resilience of our communities.”
Located just miles from NGA’s facilities in St. Louis, Maryville University is uniquely positioned to bridge academic learning with national security needs. The two-year agreement marks the beginning of a collaboration designed to grow student opportunities, strengthen regional innovation, and build a stronger workforce for the future.
About Maryville University
Founded in 1872, Maryville University is a comprehensive and nationally ranked private institution with an enrollment of well over 9,000 students. Maryville offers over 90 degrees at the undergraduate, master’s and doctoral levels, as well as several certificates that align with the undergraduate and graduate education levels. Maryville is recognized as the third fastest-growing private university in the United States by The Chronicle of Higher Education, serving students from 50 states and 56 countries. More than 50,000 Maryville alumni globally, many of whom work and live in the St. Louis region.