A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a computer system for capturing, storing, checking, and displaying data related to positions on Earth’s surface.

Every time we use navigation on our smartphones, look up the nearest restaurant, or decide where to vacation to, we are using GIS. Today, GIS is used in every sector of the economy, from agricultural production, to manufacturing, to urban planning, to retail location, to gathering census data, to space exploration.

The study of geography is about more than just memorizing places on a map. Students will develop the necessary background and expertise in geography and GIS to solve problems associated with globalization and the changing world.

Program Objectives:

Hands-on skills: Understanding of spatial patterns and the geographic tools used to visualize them, including computer-based cartography, remote sensing, GIS, and global positioning systems (GPS).

Critical thinking and problem solving: Understanding the complexity of our world, appreciating the diversity of cultures that exists across continents, and discerning human-environmental relationships.

“Geographic information technology is one of the three most important emerging and evolving fields. Job opportunities are growing and diversifying as geospatial technologies prove their value in more areas.”

U.S. Department of Labor