Minor in Geographic Information Science (Non-Teaching)
The GIS (Geographic Information Science) Minor in the Department of Earth Sciences recognizes the growing importance of Geographic Information Systems and Science in our society and how these analytic tools are used in a wide variety of disciplines. The GIS Minor takes advantage of excellent GIS facilities, lab space, expertise, and software available on campus and allows students to learn in an active hands-on environment. The GIS Minor is rooted in a core of 5 courses that include concepts in cartography, spatial data principles, spatial data modeling, spatial analysis/synthesis/modeling, GPS mapping, and remote sensing. Focused electives allow students to explore topics in related disciplines including statistics, surveying, and computer aided design.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Understand the principles and concepts of GIS, including geospatial data models, coordinate systems, and map projections. Demonstrate proficiency in using GIS software for geospatial data analysis and visualization.
- Develop skills in applying geospatial analysis techniques to solve real-world problems. Learn to use GIS tools for querying, geospatial statistics, and geoprocessing to interpret and analyze geographic data.
- Acquire knowledge in methods of collecting, storing, and managing geospatial data. Understand the processes of data creation, including GPS data collection, remote sensing, and digitization of maps and images.
- Explore the applications of GIS across different disciplines in the Earth Sciences. Understand how GIS is used for hypothesis-testing, decision-making, and policy development in these fields.
- Demonstrate proficiency in emerging GIS fields, such as web-based GIS, mobile GIS, and geospatial big data analytics. Develop an understanding of how these advancements are shaping the future of geographic information science and technology.
- Develop skills in collecting geospatial data and assessing remotely-sensed geospatial data.
| GPHY 284 | Intro to GIS Science & Cartog | 3 |
| GPHY 384 | Adv GIS and Spatial Analysis | 3 |
| GPHY 484R | Applied GIS & Spatial Analysis | 3 |
| GPHY 357 | GPS Fund/App in Mapping | 3 |
| Take ONE of the following: | 3 | |
| Remote Sensing | ||
| Applied Remote Sensing | ||
| Take ONE of the following: | 3 or 6 | |
| Intermediate Statistics with Introduction to Statistical Computing | ||
| Statistics for Scientists and Engineers and Introduction to Statistics | ||
| Take TWO or THREE of the following: | 4 or 5 | |
| Intro to Surveying for Engineers | ||
| Statistical Computing and Graphical Analysis | ||
| Sampling | ||
| Data Curation for a Data-Driven World | ||
| Ethics and Privacy in the Age of Big Data | ||
| Database Systems | ||
| Analytic Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing | ||
| Independent Study | ||
| Total Credits | 22 or 23 | |
Available for all Earth Science majors except those taking the GIS/Planning Option in the BS in Earth Science.
Note: A C- minimum is required in all curriculum courses to graduate by Regents' policy. This includes electives in the curriculum.