Geographic Information Science Graduate Certificate

Geographic information science (GIScience) emerged as an interdisciplinary field to critically study geographic information and geospatial technologies, especially geographic information systems (GIS). This certificate’s curriculum ensures a balanced background in the three core areas of GIScience:

  • theoretical foundations of mapping and geospatial analysis;
  • use of geospatial technologies for creating, mapping, and analyzing geographic information; and
  • general computational and/or information analysis skills.

On completion of the Geographic information Science Certificate, students will be able to independently complete typical mapping and geospatial analysis tasks arising regularly in a wide variety of disciplines and professions. The certificate program is designed to accommodate both degree and non-degree seeking students. The expected time to complete this certificate is 9 to 18 months, depending on the number of certificate courses students can enroll in concurrently.

Careers with a Geographic Information Science Certificate

According to the GIS Certification Institute, the number of professionals engaged in the geospatial industry will exceed 675,000 after 2020. GIS and mapping jobs are now so diverse that they are available at various levels of proficiency across thousands of different industries, government agencies, and academic institutions. Job opportunities for GIS specialists abound in both government and private sectors. Depending on skill level, career tracks include, but are not limited to, the following: geospatial analyst, spatial database administrator, cartographer, remote sensing analyst, software designer, data technician, GIS educator, and project manager.

Andreana Madera-Martorell

Contact Us

If you have questions or would like more information about the Geographic Information Science Certificate, contact Dr. Gaurav Sinha.