Program Overview

Certificate in Geographic Information Science (GIScience)

The Certificate in Geographic Information Science (GIScience) is a 15-credit program that focuses on the diverse skillset employers are searching for, including spatial data visualization and analysis, remote sensing, cartography (map creation and design), and computer programming.

What You'll Learn

You'll be prepared for employment in fields that require knowledge using industry standard methodology and software in:

• Aerial photograph interpretation
• Computer programming (Python)
• Database management
• Data visualization
• Digital mapping
• ESRI software (e.g. ArcGIS Pro)
• Geospatial intelligence
• Remote sensing data collection
• Statistics and data analytics

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities requesting GISc skills have a nationwide projected growth rate between eight and 15 percent over the next 10 years. These skills can transfer to several industries, such as:

• Business
• Logistics
• Social and environmental sciences
• Urban and landscape architecture
• Health care
• Law enforcement
• Technology
• Engineering
• Government agencies
• Journalism Top occupations with projected growth include:
• Geographer/GISc Specialist
• Software Developer/Software Engineer
• Computer Systems Engineer/Architect
• Civil Engineer
• Security or Defense Intelligence Analyst
• Systems Analyst
• Business Management Analyst
• Water and Wastewater Engineer

Course Requirements

The certificate in GISc is 15 credits, comprised of 12 credit hours of core courses and one elective.

Core Courses (12 credits)

• GEOG 265 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (3 credits)
• GEOG 433 Cartography and Visualization of Spatial Data (3 credits)
• GEOG 436 Introduction to Remote Sensing (3 credits)
• GEOG 438 Advanced Geographic Information Systems Analysis (3 credits)

Elective (3 credits)

Choose one of the following:

• GEOG 434 Maps, Environment, and Society (3 credits)
• GEOG 437 Advanced Remote Sensing (3 credits)
• GEOG 445 Geographic Information Systems Applications Design and Development (3 credits)
• GEOG 448 Geographic Information Systems Design (3 credits)

Program Details

This program is designed for working professionals seeking career advancements or career changes, and students interested in gaining new skills that can translate to several career fields. The program is entirely online, allowing for flexibility and convenience.