| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
This Bachelor of Geographic Information Systems program provides a comprehensive understanding of GIS project management, statistical analysis, and emerging trends. Students will develop skills in designing and executing independent research projects, applying geospatial technology to real-world problems, and exploring advanced topics such as open-source GIS and mobile applications. The program prepares graduates for careers in various industries, including business, engineering, environmental sciences, and healthcare.
Program Outline
Outline:
- GIS427 - Project Management: This course will focus on skills pertaining to issues surrounding the management of GIS projects from start to finish. Emphasis areas will include description of the project work environment, organizational skills and tools, deliverable oriented performance appraisals, leadership, and team orientation.
- GIS302
- GIS303
- GIS310
- GIS329
- GIS318
- GIS323
- GIS306
- GIS307
- GIS492 - Bachelor of Geographic Information Systems Thesis: This course involves the design and planning of an independent research project. Tasks include a literature review of the background information, experimental design, data acquisition and management, analysis, and technical reporting (written, visual, and oral). Students will have the opportunity to apply geospatial technology theory and skills to a real-world project with an experienced supervisor. Course deliverables will include a project proposal, a proposal poster presentation, four progress reports, a completed geospatial product, a final thesis document, and a thesis defense seminar.
- GIS435 - Statistics and Spatial Data Management: This course is a two-part course that starts with a review of essential statistical techniques and secondly focuses on statistical approaches used in spatial analyses. Emphasis will be placed on integrating practical examples into course exercises and projects. Basic statistical concepts of exploring data, probability distributions, hypothesis testing, one sample, two sample tests, regression, ANOVA, and model building will be addressed using real data and a variety of computer software. Students will explore geostatistical functions such as interpolation, point pattern analysis, kernel density estimation, kriging, and trend surface analysis in the second part of the course.
- GIS437 - Emerging Trends In GIS: This course will focus on exposing learners to practice a variety of current, high-level, and technical topics with a focus on the following main areas: Open Source GIS, GIS in the Cloud, mobile applications, ArcGIS Pro, and Augmented Reality. In addition, learners may be exposed to integrating ArcGIS functionality within Microsoft Office products, gaming, the incorporation of time (4D), and a general reliance on Location Based Services. Topics may change as industry demands.
Careers:
Flexible and adaptable, GIS can be used in a variety of different scenarios, to make evidence-based decisions, understand trends, analyze data, effectively communicate a message, and visually tell a story. Be a specialist in demand in this field that touches a variety of industries from business to health care and environmental sciences. It can be used as a tool within almost every industry, including:
- Businesses like market-driven banking, ultimate client service, and asset management
- Engineering like transportation planning, disaster management, use of historical data, and terrain analysis
- Urban, rural, and community planning
- Climate research, flood damage estimation
- Wildlife conservation, natural resource planning, water management
- Resource development and land management
- News and entertainment support, telecom, and network services
- Government administration, taxation
- Health and medical research
- Law enforcement, accident analysis
Selkirk College
Overview:
Selkirk College is a public post-secondary institution located in the Kootenay region of British Columbia, Canada. It offers a wide range of academic and vocational programs, including associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, and apprenticeship programs. The college is known for its commitment to providing high-quality education and fostering a strong sense of community.
Services Offered:
Selkirk College provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Upgrading & Development:
Programs for students seeking to improve their academic skills or prepare for post-secondary studies.Student Supports:
Services such as accessibility services, counselling, employment services, Indigenous services, and learning supports.Campus Services:
Resources like the library, bookstore, food services, IT services, childcare services, and a duplicating centre.Student Life:
Opportunities for students to engage in athletics and recreation, join student clubs, participate in leadership activities, and access health and wellness resources.Housing:
Options for on-campus and off-campus housing, including homestays.Financial Aid & Awards:
Scholarships, bursaries, student loans, and grants to help students finance their education.International Programs:
Programs for international students, including English language programs, study abroad opportunities, and support services.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Selkirk College offers a vibrant and supportive campus environment. Students can expect to:
Connect with a diverse community:
The college has a diverse student body, creating a rich and inclusive learning environment.Engage in extracurricular activities:
Participate in athletics, clubs, and leadership opportunities to enhance their college experience.Access a range of support services:
Benefit from academic, personal, and financial support services to ensure their success.Experience the beauty of the Kootenay region:
Enjoy the natural beauty of the region with opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.Key Reasons to Study There:
High-quality education:
Selkirk College is known for its high-quality instruction and commitment to student success.Small class sizes:
Students receive personalized attention and support from instructors.Strong industry connections:
The college has strong ties to local businesses and industries, providing students with valuable career opportunities.Affordable tuition:
Selkirk College offers competitive tuition rates and a variety of financial aid options.Beautiful and welcoming campus:
The college's campuses are located in scenic and welcoming communities.Academic Programs:
Selkirk College offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Arts & Technology:
Programs in areas such as music, digital arts, web development, and textile arts.Business:
Programs in business administration, office administration, accounting, and business management.Environment & Geomatics:
Programs in applied environmental science, forest technology, recreation, fish and wildlife, and geographic information systems.Health & Human Services:
Programs in nursing, community support work, early childhood care and education, education assistant, gerontological nursing, health care assistant, human services, mental health and addictions, pharmacy technician, and social service work.Hospitality & Tourism:
Programs in culinary management, hospitality management, professional cook, resort and hotel management, and ski resort operations and management.Industry & Trades Training:
Programs in carpentry, electrical, fine woodworking, hairstylist, heavy mechanical, metal fabricator, millwright/machinist, welding, and youth train in trades.University Arts & Sciences:
Programs leading to associate degrees in arts and sciences, as well as transfer programs for students seeking to continue their education at a university.Community Education & Workplace Training:
A wide range of courses and programs for individuals and businesses.Entry Requirements:
The minimum requirement for entry into the Advanced Certificate, ADGIS, or Year 3 of the BGIS program is successful completion of 60 credits from a diploma/associate degree or applied/academic degree from an accredited post-secondary institution with an average GPA of at least 2.33. Successful completion (“C” grade) of a 100 or 200 level introductory statistics course is required for students planning to complete the BGIS. International students will be expected to provide documentation of English proficiency as per Policy 8611. Additional Requirements Minimum entry is also possible with equivalent education or work experience, such as a background doing research or using GIS and/or other computer software. Letter of intent, not exceeding 500 words, stating your background and interest in the field of geographic information systems. Demonstrated competency in computer technology, including spreadsheet use, word processing, computer graphics and presentations is required. In addition, international students will be expected to provide documentation of English proficiency (refer to the college calendar for requirements).
