If you are passionate about data and tech, the geospatial industry offers exciting careers from Geospatial Data Analyst to Drone Pilot, meaning you could end up analyzing data for disaster response, or developing software that shapes the future.
With a projected 13% growth for Geospatial Data Analysts by 2030, and lucrative opportunities in software development, the geospatial industry is ripe for exploration.
To make your mark on this rapidly evolving field, you have several training options ranging from 4-year degrees to online classes to accelerated certificate programs–let’s explore them.
Bachelor’s Degrees
Cal Poly Humboldt – Geospatial Science & Technology, B.S. (In-Person)
Overview
This interdisciplinary -year program combines geography, forestry, and environmental science to address global and local challenges using geospatial data and methods. Students can choose between two concentrations: Environmental Science and Management, or Social Science.
Students develop expertise in GIS, remote sensing, and cartography, preparing them for careers in fields like emergency management, environmental planning, and urban development.
A strong emphasis is placed on real-world experience through field work and community engagement.
Curriculum
- Lower Division Core Courses
- Geospatial Concepts
- Introduction to Remote Sensing
- Trigonometry
- Geographic Information Science or GIS for Social Science
- Environmental Methods or Geographic Research and Writing
- Human Geography or Physical Geography
- Elementary Statistics or Introductory Biostatistics
- Upper Division Core Courses
- Cartography
- Geospatial Programming I
- Intermediate Remote Sensing
- Mobile Mapping
- Intermediate Geographic Information Science (GIS)
- Electives Include:
- Database Design
- Web Applications Using Databases
- Advanced Cartography Design Seminar
- Geospatial Programming II
- Cartography Practicum
- Advanced Remote Sensing
- Advanced Geospatial Analysis and Modeling
Learning Outcomes
- Apply geospatial tools to analyze environmental issues and propose solutions.
- Assess human impacts on the environment using geospatial data.
- Collect and analyze geographic data to understand complex environmental problems.
- Evaluate spatial decision-making using critical thinking.
- Communicate environmental information effectively to various audiences.
- Create professional geospatial products (maps, reports, etc.).
Michigan State University – Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science (In Person)
Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science is a 4-year undergraduate program focused on applying technology to understand the Earth’s systems. It combines strong quantitative and technical skills with practical problem-solving. This degree prepares students for careers in spatial technology or further studies in geography-related fields.
Please note: The program is currently on hold and will not be offered from Fall 2024 to Fall 2026.
Curriculum
- Core Courses:
- Introduction to Economic Geography
- Introduction to Human Geography
- Physical Geography
- Introduction to Geographic Information
- Remote Sensing of the Environment
- Geographic Information Systems
- Introduction to Quantitative Methods for Geographers
- Advanced Remote Sensing
- Two of the following courses:
- Cartographic Design and Production
- Thematic Cartography
- Digital Terrain Analysis
- Geoprocessing
- Metropolitan Environments: Urban Forms and Land Uses
- Internship in Geography
Learning Outcomes
- Understand fundamental concepts in economic, human, and physical geography.
- Develop proficiency in geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies.
- Acquire skills in data analysis and quantitative methods applied to geographic data.
- Master cartographic techniques for creating effective maps.
- Gain knowledge of spatial data structures and geoprocessing.
- Develop an understanding of urban geography and spatial patterns.
University of Arizona – Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems Technology (In-Person)
Overview
This 4-year program prepares students for high-demand GIS careers by providing a strong foundation in geospatial technology and its applications. With a focus on practical skills and industry-relevant coursework, graduates are well-equipped to enter the workforce.
The curriculum emphasizes cartography, geovisualization, web and mobile development, and remote sensing. Students gain hands-on experience through project-based learning and a capstone project. The program aligns with industry standards, ensuring graduates are job-ready upon completion.
Curriculum
- Foundational Courses
- GIS Introduction
- Map Science
- Cartographic Design and Production
- Programming I
- Remote Sensing
- Intermediate Courses
- Web and Mobile GIS
- Programming II
- Geovisualization
- Spatial Analysis and Modeling
- Advanced GIS
- Specialized Courses
- Statistical Techniques in Geography
- Applied GIS
- Integrated Geospatial Technologies
- Geographical Applications of Remote Sensing
Learning Outcomes
- Master foundational geospatial concepts, including map science, remote sensing, and GIS.
- Develop strong technical skills in GIS software, programming, and data analysis.
- Apply geospatial knowledge to solve real-world problems and make informed decisions.
- Communicate geospatial information effectively to diverse audiences.
- Prepare for successful careers in the geospatial industry through practical experience.
Master’s Degrees
Michigan State University – MS in Forestry (Hybrid)
Overview
Michigan State University’s Hybrid Online MS in Forestry is designed for non-forestry graduates seeking a career in the field. The program blends online, asynchronous coursework with two nine-day intensive field-based experiences, and can be completed in as little as 12 months.
Students learn about sustainable forest management, considering ecological, economic, and societal factors. Graduates are prepared for careers in forestry, silviculture, forest restoration, consulting, wildfire management, carbon analysis, and forest certification.
- Topics Covered: Tree biology, forest measurements, forest carbon and climate
change, silviculture, forest ecology, GIS, forest economics, and management.
Curriculum
- Professional Forestry Field Techniques
- Forest Measurements and Inventory
- Tree Biology
- Forest Ecosystem Processes
- Advanced Silviculture
- Applications of GIS to Natural Resources Management
- Natural Resource Policy
- Forest Management Planning
- Human Dimensions of Forest Carbon Management
- Forest Resource Economics
Learning Outcomes
- Master core forestry skills including measurement, inventory, and field techniques.
- Develop a deep understanding of forest ecology, biology, and management practices.
- Gain proficiency in using GIS for data analysis and spatial planning.
- Acquire knowledge of forest economics, policy, and human dimensions.
- Apply learned skills to real-world challenges in forest management.
University of Arizona – Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems Technology (In-Person or Online)
Overview
The University of Arizona offers a leading MS-GIST program focused on preparing students for the evolving geospatial industry. With a strong emphasis on web, mobile, and open-source applications, students gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge software through a curriculum designed to align with industry demands.
The program offers both in-person and online learning options, providing flexibility for students to balance their academic pursuits with personal and professional commitments. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in various sectors including public administration, natural resources, and IT.
Curriculum
- Geographic Information Science
- Remote Sensing Science
- Raster Spatial Analysis
- Vector Spatial Analysis
- GIS Programming and Automation
- WebGIS
- Cartography
- Open Source GIS
Learning Outcomes
- Master GIS software proficiency (ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online).
- Develop expertise in data management, modeling, and visualization.
- Acquire skills in geoprocessing, spatial analysis, and cartography.
- Utilize advanced techniques like LiDAR, drones, and Python programming.
- Create interactive web maps and applications.
Certificate Programs
Bootcamp GIS (Online)
Overview
Bootcamp GIS offers online GIS certificate programs and individual courses. The company provides flexible learning options through partnerships with educational institutions like San Diego State University and Northeastern Illinois University, or through its own brand.
Students select six courses from a curriculum taught by industry experts, with each course consisting of 24 instructional hours accessible online at the student’s convenience. Upon completion of six courses, students can earn an Enterprise GIS Certificate.
Program tiers vary in cost and include features such as instructor interaction, career coaching, and professional networking.
Curriculum
Students pick 6 of the following courses
- GIS Industry
- Add GIS skills to your portfolio
- Apply geospatial web tools to large scale planning
- Leverage GIS for disaster risk reduction
- Support any construction project with GIS
- Design a geospatial workflow for urban growth
- Mapping financial viability for wind farms
- GIS Forecasting of Climate Change
- GIS Data
- Leverage UAV (Drone) Data for Environmental Projects
- Design a Field Collection Workflow
- Build a Dashboard for a COVID-19 Hotline Calling System
- Automate Data Conversion into an AWS GIS Repository
- GIS Developer
- Learn Python / ArcServer to setup a property tax application
- Set up AWS map services for wildfire assessments
- Script A Python Data Science Model To Map Food Insecurity
- Develop interactive maps on a website to report water quality issues
- Build an ArcGIS Hub to promote Environmental Justice
- Build a stadium navigation app with ArcGIS Indoors
- GeoAI
- Create a drought time series in Google Earth Engine
- Develop GeoAI models for precision agriculture
- GIS for Business
- Create commercial real estate development reports using GIS
- Develop a locational strategy to optimize retail markets
- Turn your spatial idea into a successful startup company
- GIS Management
- Marketing and business development for a geospatial company
- Define a GIS framework that supports your strategic plan
- Agile management of a modern GIS program
Learning Outcomes
- Mastered GIS software and tools for data analysis and visualization.
- Apply GIS to address complex real-world challenges through spatial analysis.
- Develop geospatial programming, web mapping, and remote sensing abilities.
- Gain exposure to diverse GIS applications across various industries.
- Develop project management, communication, and collaboration skills.
California State University, Fullerton – GIS Certificate Program (Online)
Overview
This fully online program equips students with GIS skills to solve real-world problems across various industries. Through four project-based courses, learners develop a strong foundation in geography, data analysis, and systems thinking.
Designed for completion in eight months, the program is very flexible and perfectly suited for recent graduates, professionals, career changers, and retirees alike.
Curriculum
- Introduction to GIS
- GIS Data and Formats
- GIS Analysis and Map Design
- GIS Capstone Project
Learning Outcomes
- Define and understand key GIS concepts and the industry’s history.
- Understand the major components of a GIS, including hardware, software, and data.
- Identify the role and functions of a GIS Specialist in both public and private sectors.
- Build and manage a GIS database.
- Use ArcGIS and related applications effectively.
- Complete a capstone project demonstrating their GIS skills.
Cal Poly Humboldt – Geospatial Certificate Programs (Online or In-Person)
The university offers two Geospatial Certificate programs to cater to different skill levels and learning preferences.
The Basic Geospatial Certificate is an online program designed for individuals seeking a foundational understanding of GIS, remote sensing, and cartography. This flexible program allows students to balance work and studies while gaining valuable skills applicable across various industries.
The Advanced Geospatial Certificate is an in-person program building upon the foundational knowledge. It offers a deeper dive into advanced geospatial techniques and tools, preparing students for specialized roles within the field.
Both programs aim to equip students with the skills necessary to address complex global and local challenges using geospatial technologies.
Curriculum
- Basic Geospatial Certificate
- Geospatial Concepts
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Intermediate GIS
- Introduction to Remote Sensing
- Cartography
- Advanced Geospatial Certificate
- Intermediate Remote Sensing
- Mobile Mapping
- Cartography Practicum
- Electives Include:
- Advanced Cartography Design Seminar
- Advanced Geospatial Analysis and Modeling
- Advanced Geospatial Analysis and Modeling
- Geospatial Programming
Learning Outcomes
- Develop a strong understanding of geospatial concepts including scale, coordinates, geodesy, and projections.
- Master traditional land surveying techniques and modern GPS technology.
- Gain proficiency in remote sensing and image interpretation.
- Develop expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and cartography.
- Combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills through laboratory exercises.
Coursera – University of California, Davis: Geographic Information Systems (Online)
Overview
The Coursera GIS Specialization, developed in partnership with Esri, offers an introductory curriculum in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Designed for beginners, the program covers GIS fundamentals, data analysis, and ArcGIS Pro software.
Participants engage in applied learning through projects embedded within each course. Upon completion, learners undertake a capstone project to create a GIS portfolio piece.
The specialization is self-paced and available for continuous enrollment, with an estimated completion time of 4-6 months.
Curriculum
- Fundamentals of GIS
- GIS Data Formats, Design and Quality
- Geospatial Analysis with ArcGIS
- GIS Applications Across Industries
Learning Outcomes
- Spatial Analysis
- Data Management
- Data Visualization
- Geoprocessing Analysis
- Use of ArcGIS and ArcGIS Pro
Coursera – University of Toronto: GIS, Mapping, and Spatial Analysis (Online)
Overview
This beginner-level specialization introduces the fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Developed in partnership with Esri, the world’s leading GIS software company, the program emphasizes practical skills.
Learners will gain experience in data creation, sourcing, and analysis, as well as map design and spatial analysis. A capstone project allows for the application of learned skills through portfolio development or a single in-depth project.
The specialization enrolls year-round, is self-paced, and can be completed in 3-6 months.
Please note: While designed for use with ArcMap, this software is no longer supported by Esri. Students will need to source their own GIS software.
Curriculum
- Introduction to GIS Mapping
- GIS Data Acquisition and Map Design
- Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS
- GIS, Mapping, and Spatial Analysis Capstone
Learning Outcomes
- GIS Software (ArcGIS)
- Data Visualization
- Spatial Data Analysis
- Data Management
Michigan State University – Professional GIS Certificate (Online)
Overview
This online certificate program is designed to enhance the GIS skills of working professionals. Through four seven-week courses, participants gain hands-on experience with ArcGIS Pro and apply GIS analysis to real-world scenarios. The program’s flexible format allows for completion in two semesters or less.
Covering topics such as geographic information, GPS, map design, aerial imagery, geospatial analysis, ethics, data analytics, and Python, the program provides a comprehensive understanding of GIS technology.
Curriculum
- Introduction to Geospatial Technology (IGT)
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Remote Sensing (RS)
- Cartography (CART)
Learning Outcomes
- Create maps to communicate geographic information.
- Interpret aerial and satellite images.
- Use cutting-edge GIS software.
- Apply GIS analysis to real-world situations.
Michigan State University – Professional Geospatial Data Analytics & Visualization Certificate (Online)
Overview
This program has a similar structure to the GIS Certificate above, with a focus on data analytics and visualization within the geospatial field.
Students learn to extract insights from geographic data using advanced techniques. The curriculum covers topics such as data analytics, spatial statistics, and data visualization.
The program consists of four seven-week online courses and is accessible to a wide audience, including professionals, students, and international learners, providing plenty of flexibility with its online format and accessible software options.
Curriculum
- Cartography
- Geovisualization
- Python & ArcPy Geoprocessing
- Spatial Statistics
Learning Outcomes
- Create effective maps and geo visualizations.
- Use ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online for a variety of applications.
- Use Python scripting language to automate GIS tasks in ArcGIS Pro.
- Manipulate GIS data using scripts.
- Use spatial tools to understand diverse geospatial processes.
Okanagan College – Advanced GIS Certificate (Online)
Overview
This part-time, online GIS program offers a comprehensive foundation in geographic information systems. Designed for flexibility, the program requires approximately 10 hours of coursework per week and is delivered in an asynchronous, instructor-led format.
Students will learn to create, edit, and manage GIS data, as well as develop project management skills. The curriculum covers both theoretical concepts and practical applications, including data collection, GIS analysis, and advanced topics like 3D data and network datasets.
Through hands-on projects, students gain real-world experience preparing them for careers in consulting, government, mining, and other industries.
Curriculum
- GIS Data
- GPS
- GIS Analysis & Automation
- Relational Databases
- Raster Analysis
- 3D Modeling
- Geometric Networks
- Linear Referencing
- Temporal Data & Animation
- Map Books
- Directed Project
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate proficiency in GIS software and data management.
- Successfully complete GIS projects from inception to completion.
- Utilize GIS tools to analyze spatial patterns and relationships.
- Apply advanced GIS concepts such as 3D modeling, network analysis, and temporal data analysis.
- Incorporate GPS data into GIS projects for data collection and analysis.
- Relate GIS to other disciplines such as database management and project management.
Penn State University – Geographic Information Systems Postbaccalaureate Certificate (Online)
Overview
This program provides students with the opportunity to earn a GIS certificate entirely online and can be completed in as little as 9 months. Two tracks cater to different experience levels: foundational for beginners and experienced professionals.
Courses offer hands-on experience with current GIS industry tools, while the curriculum covers data analysis, database design, and ethical considerations in geospatial technology.
Graduates of this globally recognized program join a network of alumni working in over 150 geospatial organizations worldwide. Career services include job search assistance, internship opportunities, and counseling.
Curriculum
- Core Courses:
- Geographic Information in a Changing World: Introduction to GIScience (3 credits)
- Additional courses in cartography, remote sensing, and GIS programming (9 credits)
- Electives:
- Open web mapping
- Advanced Python programming
- Spatial data science
- Emerging trends in remote sensing
- Location intelligence for business
Learning Outcomes
- Gain hands-on experience with desktop GIS software.
- Design and maintain database systems.
- Understand and address ethical issues in the GIS field.
- Explore the impact and trajectory of the Geospatial Revolution.
University of Arizona – Professional Certificate in Geographic Information Systems Technology (In-Person or Online)
Overview
The University of Arizona offers a Professional Geographic Information Systems Technology (P-GIST) certificate designed to equip professionals with advanced geospatial skills.
This program requires students to have completed nine credits of graduate-level GIST coursework, enhancing their ability to solve complex problems using geospatial technologies.
Curriculum
- Graduate Courses Include:
- Geographic Information Science
- Remote Sensing Science
- Raster Spatial Analysis
- Vector Spatial Analysis
- Geographic Information Systems Programming and Automation
- WebGIS
- Cartography
- Open Source GIS
Learning Outcomes
- Develop a strong theoretical foundation in Geographic Information Science.
- Gain expertise in utilizing advanced geospatial tools and software.
- Apply GIS knowledge to address challenges in various sectors.
- Combine GIS skills with management principles for effective decision-making.
- Develop a broad understanding of GIS applications through diverse coursework.
University of Wisconsin–Madison – GIS Fundamentals Capstone Certificate (Online)
Program Overview
This GIS Fundamentals capstone certificate program is designed for beginners in cartography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). You’ll learn the in-demand skills for a successful GIS career through three online courses covering mapping, spatial analysis, and geocomputing.
The program offers flexible scheduling, allowing you to complete it in as little as one semester (15 weeks) plus you have the opportunity to build your professional network through program events and connect with the university’s alumni network. You can start your GIS journey anytime as applications are accepted for Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters.
Curriculum
- Introduction to Cartography
- Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
- Introduction to Geocomputing
Learning Outcomes
- Cartography: Design and develop effective maps.
- Spatial Analysis: Gather, analyze, process, and manage geographic and spatial data.
- GIS Programming: Develop skills in tools like Esri ArcPro, QGIS, and Python.
Brad Crisp is the CEO at Maptive.com, based in Denver, CO and born in San Francisco, CA. He has extensive experience in Business Mapping, GIS, Data Visualization, Mapping Data Analytics and all forms of software development. His career includes Software Development and Venture Capital dating back to 1998 at businesses like Maptive, GlobalMojo (now Giving Assistant), KPG Ventures, Loopnet, NextCard, and Banking.
Call Us: 
