What is Geographic Information Science?
If you have ever used a digital map, such as
those available from Google or MapQuest, you
have used this technology. Geographic Information
Science (GISc) is the foundation of Geographic
Information Systems (GISc), and it is the general
term for mapping technologies used by business,
government, and education. GISc has been called
the most important technology for creating, applying,
and disseminating geographic knowledge in the
21 st Century (Dangermond, 1999).
GISc integrates spatial data sets in the form
of digital maps, digital aerial photos, remotely
sensed imagery, and global positioning system
(GPS) coordinates. The technologies are used
to assess, plan, and manage many facets of society,
including agriculture, population growth, natural
resource management, economic development, energy
production and transmission, air and water pollution,
business marketing and site location, access
to medical care, city planning, building design,
and urban infrastructure.
What is a Graduate Certificate in Geographic
Information Science?
To keep up with the national demand for qualified
GISc professionals, the University of North Dakota
has launched an online Geographic Information
Science (GISc) Graduate Certificate Program.
It gives you a solid theoretical foundation in
GISc and the state-of-the-art technical skills
needed for a successful career
in GISc.
The one-year online GISc Graduate Certificate
Program is designed for working professionals.
It focuses on developing the skills and knowledge
you need to work in the GISc field, including
how to:
- understand foundational theory and principles
of cartography and geographic information systems
- develop a critical eye when designing and
interpreting maps
- appropriately model landscape features and
to analyze spatial relationships among them
- conduct applied research projects using geospatial
technology tools
