GIS/Planning Option

The GIS (Geographic Information Science)/Planning Option in the Department of Earth Sciences is designed to offer students a mix of technical skills and academic training that prepares them for careers in local, state, and federal planning as well as opportunities in private consulting firms that are involved in the planning process. The GIS/Planning Option recognizes the growing importance of Geographic Information Systems and Science in our society and how these analytic tools are applied in a wide variety of settings. The GIS/Planning Option 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. Students are prepared as map makers (cartographers) spatial analysts, and planners. The Department of Earth Sciences has connections with various local, state, and federal planning agencies within Montana and throughout the West. As part of their training, students may also be able to take advantage of internship opportunities as a way to further prepare for a wide variety of professional careers within the fields of planning and resource management. The optimal degree for employment and advancement in the in GIS/Planning area is the Master's Degree, and this undergraduate option is an excellent preparatory degree for graduate study. Some students interested in college teaching or advanced research may require a Ph.D. degree.

At the Freshman and Sophomore level, students take introductory courses in physical and human geography, GIS and cartography, statistics, intermediate technical writing, and computer aided design (CAD).  In addition, courses in economics and political science lay the foundation for understanding the broader context of the planning process. As juniors and seniors, students complete an advanced 2-course sequence in GIS/Spatial Analysis (GPHY 384/GPHY 484R) and take skills-related coursework in Remote Sensing and in GPS technologies.  Focused electives include courses in geographical planning, urban and economic geography, tourism and recreational planning, and in the politics of development.  Students also complete basic coursework in soils, geomorphology and weather and climate because these variables are critical in the planning process. Additional electives are available in advanced classes in geography, earth science, ecology, natural resources, water resources, and statistics allow students to specialize in areas of particular interest and develop their own emphases in subjects related to the geospatial sciences and the planning process.  All students take the GIS Capstone course (GPHY 484R) which emphasizes independent study in the geospatial sciences through a semester project.

Courses Required in Department

Note: A minimum of 120 credits is required for graduation; 42 of these credits must be in courses numbered 300 or above.