Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems Science (GISc)

Required Core Courses:

• GEOG 6830 Geographic Information Systems (4)

• GEOG 6820 Aerial Photography and Remote Sensing (4)

• GEOG 6880 Advanced Geographic Information Systems (3)

• GEOG 6700 Quantitative Methods and Spatial Analysis (3)

Elective Options (as approved):

• BSEN 6220 Geospatial Technologies in Biosystems

• CPLN 6460 Geographic Information Systems for Planning and Policy

• FORY 6480 GIS Database Design and Analysis

• GEOG 6850 Drone and Geospatial Applications

• GEOG 6890 GIS Programming

Additional electives may be approved based on student goals and adviser recommendation.

Degree-Seeking Students

Students enrolled in a graduate degree program (e.g., MS in Geology, MS in Geography and Environmental Studies or PhD in Earth System Science) may add the GISc certificate to their plan of study. MS Geology students must work with their advisors to determine which courses in the GISc Certificate can count toward both the MS Geology degree and the GISc Certificate (generally 8 hours is allowed for double dipping by Geology students).

Students must apply to the certificate program no later than the term before completing their final required course.

Non-Degree Seeking Students

Students not enrolled in a graduate degree program may apply as non-degree seeking certificate students. Applicants must:

• Apply for admission to the graduate certificate program

• Submit an official transcript showing the highest degree earned

• Pay the required application fee

Note: Non-degree certificate students are not eligible for federal financial aid.

Degree-seeking students should establish a Plan of Study in their first semester in the department. The plan must be approved by the adviser, committee and department chair before submitting an application to add the certificate to the Graduate School records.

All students seeking to graduate with the certificate must apply for graduation through the Graduate School by the deadline in the term prior to completion.

Graduate assistantships (teaching or research) are typically available for students pursuing a master’s degree with the GIS certificate. Support may include stipend and tuition benefits for a standard appointment period.

Students may also be eligible for a Graduate Tuition Fellowship if appointed at ≥33% FTE, which can provide additional tuition support. Extensions beyond standard tuition support must be approved by COSAM and the Graduate School.