GIS Programs

The College of the Environment offers multiple programs in Geographic Information Science. These programs are a BA in Environmental Studies with a GIS Emphasis, GIS Minor, and a GIS Certificate (Undergraduate and Graduate).

Contact Dr. Aquila Flower for more information regarding these programs.

Environmental Studies — Geographic Information Science Emphasis, BA

Environmental Studies takes an interdisciplinary and holistic approach to understanding human-environment systems and environmental challenges. Many environmental systems and issues involve spatial patterns that can be analyzed, visualized, and communicated through Geographic Information Science (GIS) techniques. The GIS emphasis provides students with in-depth training in GIS theory and techniques.

Geographic Information Science Certificate (Undergraduate)

The certificate prepares students for careers as geospatial analysts and GIS technicians, and is a valuable complement to many majors. The GIS Certificate has more rigorous requirements, including a higher minimum grade for classes counted toward the degree (a B- rather than a C-) compared to the minor, and signifies a more advanced level of geospatial technical expertise. Students who plan to pursue a career in GIS are encouraged to strongly consider the GIS Emphasis and GIS Certificate.

Geographic Information Science Certificate (Graduate)

The Graduate GIS Certificate provides students with in-depth training in GIS theory and techniques. Our students gain advanced skills in the creation, development, management, analysis, and visualization of spatial data. Original research projects allow graduate students to practice applying GIS techniques to their thesis topic. 

Geographic Information Science Minor

The GIS minor provides students with a solid foundation in fundamental GIS theory and techniques through a flexible suite of courses in GIS, statistics, cartography, and remote sensing. Students will practice using GIS techniques for a wide range of environmental applications, from modeling climate change impacts to identifying inequitable patterns of exposure to pollutants to prioritizing land for renewable energy installations or conservation easements.