Geographic Information Science Major

Why Study GIS?

Interested in learning how spatial data can be used to support emergency planning, help design transportation systems, or track the progress of diseases?  

Geographic Information Science (GIS) is a collection of scientific techniques and methodologies used to manage, analyze, interpret and communicate spatial data. It is more than just mapping; it is critical thinking to understand and solve complex issues through data. GIS professionals use geographical, statistical and computational techniques in many industries to:

• extract spatial information from a variety of datasets (including field, clinical, satellite or remotely-sensed data)
• analyze complex spatial data to make it more easily understandable
• create interactive maps and models that are accessible to a wide audience
  
• identify problems and propose new solutions
  
• contribute to public policy and decision-making
  

Some examples of GIS in action can be found here, here and here.

GIS Major

The GIS major gives you a full spectrum GIS foundation while allowing you to explore GIS uses in areas of your personal interest. You will learn theory, applications, and management of geospatial technologies as well as ethics and privacy related to ubiquitous spatial data and tracking.

This mix of core concepts, critical thinking and advanced technical skills this will equip you to work in a variety of GIS-related positions, addressing both social and environmental challenges. Our focus on hands-on learning enables you to fully explore how to use GIS.

GIS is used across various industries, making it a valuable skill set for your future career. Some of the fields in which GIS are commonly used include urban and land-use planning, real estate and housing, marketing, health sciences, transportation planning, tourism, resource management, forestry, ecology, environmental conservation, geotechnical work, mining, assessment of future climate impacts, coastal management, public safety and risk assessment.

A key component of the GIS Major is "choosing your own adventure." This program provides in-depth GIS knowledge and skills while giving you the flexibility to branch out into related fields to prepare you for a wide variety of career options in a data-driven world.