Program Overview

Geographic Information Systems and Computer Science Degree

Overview

The Bachelor of Science degree in Geographic Information Systems and Computer Science (GIS+CS) enables understanding of geospatial processes as well as process-based/algorithmic approaches to problem solving.

Program Type

• Major

Format

• On Campus

Estimated Time to Complete

• 4 years

Credit Hours

• 120

Description

Cloud computing, big data, and Internet of Things (IoT) have dramatically impacted the use of geospatial data. The GIS+CS degree at UNT addresses these needs by producing graduates who understand the complexities of geospatial data and are able to leverage computing techniques to convert such data into meaningful information.

Marketable Skills

• Manage enterprise GIS infrastructure
• Proficiency with programming
• Manage geospatial data using databases
• Analyze spatial data
• Visualize and communicate information through maps

Degree Highlights

• Develop a sound understanding of computing principles.
• Gain experience in programming using various languages including C++ and Python.
• Understand the complexities of using databases - a critical component of GIS.
• Take specialized courses, such as remote sensing, enterprise GIS, computer networks, security, data mining, graphics, and artificial intelligence.
• Learn how to apply geographical perspectives to contextualize and interpret complex geospatial processes captured through data.

Career Opportunities

Graduates can expect to find jobs as GIS Engineers, GIS Systems Analysts, GIS Solutions Engineers, and GIS Application Programmers. Such positions typically tend to be part of IT/GIS departments in federal/state/local governments, real estate, logistics, retail, defense, infrastructure, energy, among others.

Coursework

Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (3 hrs)

Introduces the concepts and applications of computer-based spatial data handling, known as geographic information systems (GIS) technology. Illustrates the essential methods of GIS and its applications in fields including geography, business, administration, planning, and environmental science.

Advanced Geographic Information Systems (3 hrs)

Advanced spatial analysis through the use of specialized software and the design and development of spatial databases and applications. The course includes GIS data models, project planning, raster-based data manipulation and analysis, three-dimensional (3D) analysis, network analysis, and other advanced topics in spatial analysis.

Special Topics in GIS (3 hrs)

Current topics and techniques in geographic information systems to complement core course work. Examples include multiuser geospatial data management, web-based map delivery, GIS programming, spatial statistics, applications for specific careers fields, and other topics. Course content reflects recent trends in GIS research and the job market.

Advanced GIS Programming (3 hrs)

Methods of creating new applications and improving productivity in GIS through computer programming, culminating in a programming project. Topics include accessing maps and data layers, querying and selecting features, updating databases, and accessing raster and TIN/Terrain layers.

Location Intelligence: Business GIS Concepts and Applications (3 hrs)

Survey of the geographic concepts and applications that support business decision-making. Examines the context for application of geographic methodologies and explores the analytical techniques that relate to the needs of businesses operating across the global economy.

Introduction to Python Programming (3 hrs)

Automation is an important component of data processing, analysis, and visualization. Python is a powerful, general-purpose programming language that is used for automation, scientific analysis, and other data management and visualization tasks. Examines the basics of writing computer programs in Python, input and output operations, logic and data structures, object-oriented programming, and data visualization using graphing libraries.