This undergraduate certificate program is a three-course sequence of GIS classes that allows students to develop a working knowledge of GIS concepts, capability in using GIS software, and problem-solving skills necessary for common geospatial issues. This certificate is intended to provide students with a way to demonstrate their GIS skills to employers at a level below a minor or a major. All courses have the use of GIS software as a major component of the class. All courses are 4 credit hours, and the certificate is 12 total credit hours.
Topics Covered
- spatial data models
- datums
- projections
- cartography
- remote sensing
- georeferencing
- data acquisition
- data management
- data editing
- spatial analysis
- environmental applications of GIS
Learning Outcomes
The learning objectives for this program are: know how to operate common GIS software packages, be conversant in GIS terminology, be able to create, edit, and manage common GIS file formats, apply GIS concepts and software knowledge to geospatial problems. Specific skills developed may include geodatabase and shapefile creation, structured query language (SQL) use, table joins, spatial overlays, image georeferencing, layer projection and reprojection, and symbology modification.
Careers
With a Certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), graduates are prepared for roles across governmental, private, and non-profit sectors. GIS professionals apply spatial data analysis, mapping, and geospatial technology skills to fields like urban planning, environmental management, public health, and business logistics, supporting informed decision-making and resource management.
Typical Job Titles
- GIS Analyst
- GIS Technician
- Cartographer
- Environmental Analyst
- Data Scientist
School / College
College of Arts & Sciences
Department
Environment, Geography, and Marine Sciences
Contact
Dr. Matthew Miller