B.A.A.S. Geographic Information Systems
Overview
The Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a hands-on, student-focused program that is designed to inspire, captivate, and prepare you for your future career in any related field or industry. Geographic Information Systems are computer-based systems used for recording, storing, analyzing, and displaying spatial/geographic data. GIS show a myriad of different types of data and display spatial statistics in order to draw specified conclusions. In essence, GIS is storytelling by way of geography instead of books.
Every time we use navigation on our smartphones, look up the nearest restaurant, or decide where to vacation to, we are using GIS. Geographic information systems are used to track climate changes, wildlife migration patterns, shopping and consumer habits, oil and gas exploration, infectious disease outbreaks, just to name a few. These systems are used in every sector of the economy and in almost every discipline.
Designed With You in Mind
This degree program caters to the needs of nontraditional students with existing military, technical or vocational education credits in some aspects of GIS, who are seeking for individualized academic degrees in GIS.
Program Objectives
- Critical Thinking: Students will be able to identify, and spatially conceptualize a problem, and logically argue for the use of geospatial techniques in addressing the problem.
- Technology: Students will demonstrate skill in the use of GIS related software and related research databases and equipment.
- Data Analysis: Students will demonstrate skill in using standard GIS data analysis techniques.
- Research Skills: Students will demonstrate skill in using basic GIS research methodologies.
Jump Right In
The U.S. Department of Labor identified GIS as one of the three most important emerging and evolving fields over the next ten years. The Tarleton GIS program will teach skills that are needed across various disciplines and job markets. Graduating with a degree in GIS will give you a tremendous advantage in today’s competitive job market.
Estimated Completion
120 credit hours (4 years)
Application Process
Cost
Locations Available
Department
College
Plan Your Future
Students who graduate with a degree in GIS have almost unlimited options in terms of where they want to work and in what field. Students with GIS degrees work in the fields such as:
Medical geography/GIS
Real estate investment
Location factor analyst
Oil and gas
Intelligence agencies
Wildlife services
Hydrology
Urban development and city planning
Career Services offers students a wide variety of professional development opportunities that can translate into careers. A few of these programs include:
Career counseling and My Plan
DEI - Delta Epsilon Iota, Career Services Honor Society
Handshake
Mock interviews
Resume assistance
And much more!
Students who excel at GIS are sought out by employers for:
Internships within the local, state, and federal government
Oil and gas industry internships and/or employment
Non-governmental organization positions
Real estate development
Students who are interested should work with their academic advisor to find the correct intern position.
Coursework Highlights
| Class | Number | Class Name |
|---|---|---|
| GEOG | 3312 | Economic Geography |
| BCIS | 3333 | C# Programming |
| GEOG | 3352 | Introduction to Crime Mapping |
| BCIS | 4301 | Database Theory and Practice |
| GEOG | 4450 | Advanced Geographic Information Systems |
| GEOG | 4451 | Applied Remote Sensing |
Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)
- Flexible Learning Options: We offer online and hybrid formats on our Stephenville, Waco and Ft Worth campuses to accommodate your busy schedule.
- Reduced Time to Completion: By leveraging your existing knowledge and skills, you will be able to complete your degree faster and at a lower cost.
- Experienced Faculty: Our instructors are industry professionals who understand the value of real-world experience and can help you connect your learning to your career goals.
- Scholarships: Discover our Career Enrichment Scholarship for a steady, affordable education. The Fixed-Price Degree Scholarship keeps costs constant, covering the difference to ensure your cost will be, at most, $200 per credit hour for five years after you start your degree. Secure your education with confidence.
Accreditations
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What Bachelor’s Degrees are Related to GIS?
Not what you were looking for? Tarleton State University offers over 100 different degrees and certifications that may be of interest to you, including: