Geographic Information Systems

Degree

Minor in Geographic Information Systems
College of Arts and Sciences (CAS)
School of Marine and Environmental Programs

Contact

Noah Perlut, Ph.D.
Assistant Academic Director, School of Marine and Environmental Programs
nperlut@une.edu

Minor Description

Geospatial Technology is a growing field, involving geographic information systems (GIS), global positioning systems (GPS), internet mapping technologies, and remote sensing. In the GIS minor you learn about these tools and get hands-on experience using them in an internship. GIS has applications related to health care, ecology and conservation, marine science, engineering, business, urban planning, sociology, politics and more. A GIS minor gives you practical skills that current employers are seeking and will significantly enhance your ability to gain employment because you become competent in skills that have application to many dynamic fields. With GIS, you can track the spread of disease, find optimal sites to locate a new business, map endangered plant and animal habitat, find the best site for solar panels, or analyze growth patterns of cities.

Curricular Requirements

A student with a major in the School of Marine and Environmental Programs or another program may minor in Geographic Information Systems with the approval of the Academic Director. A minimum of eighteen (18) hours of approved course credit in the following courses is required:

Program Required CoursesCredits
GIS 161 – GIS I: Fundamentals of Geospatial Science and Technology3
GIS 162 – GIS II: Application of Geospatial Science and Technology3
GIS 224/224L – Remote Sensing/Remote Sensing w/Lab4
GIS 364/364L – Spatial Analysis/Spatial Analysis w/Lab4
GIS 495 – GIS Internship or GIS 410 – GIS ResearchVariable
Minimum Total Required Credits18

Learning Outcomes

  • Comprehend fundamental concepts and practices of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and advances in Geospatial Information Science and Technology (GIS&T).
  • Apply basic graphic and data visualization concepts such as color theory, symbolization, and use of white space.
  • Demonstrate organizational skills in file and database management.
  • Give examples of interdisciplinary applications of Geospatial Information Science and Technology.
  • Apply GIS analysis to address geospatial problems and/or research questions.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in the use of GIS tools to create maps that are fit-for-purpose and effectively convey the information they are intended to.
  • Effectively communicate and present project results in oral, written, and graphic forms.
  • Demonstrate confidence in undertaking new (unfamiliar) analysis using GIS, troubleshoot problems in GIS, and seek help from software/website help menus and the GIS community to solve problems.
  • Apply mathematical concepts, including statistical methods, to data to be used in geospatial analysis.
  • Gather and process original data using a Global Positioning System (GPS) or other Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS).

Transfer Credit

Courses completed at another accredited college can be transferred to this degree program. Transferred courses must be reasonably close in scope and content to the required courses offered at 51С»Æ³µin order to count as exact equivalents. Otherwise, they may transfer as general electives.

All courses completed must be no older than five (5) years. Other restrictions apply.

See Undergraduate Admissions for more information.

Admissions

See Undergraduate Admissions for more information.

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

Notice and Responsibilities Regarding this Catalog

This catalog outlines the academic programs, degree criteria, policies, and events of the University of 51С»Æ³µ for the 2024–2025 academic year and serves as the official guide for academic and program requirements for students enrolling at the University during the Summer of 2024, Fall 2024, and Spring 2025 semesters.

The information provided is accurate as of its publication date on April 26, 2024.
The University of 51С»Æ³µ reserves the right to modify its programs, calendar, or academic schedule as deemed necessary or beneficial. This includes alterations to course content, class rescheduling, cancellations, or any other academic adjustments. Changes will be communicated as promptly as possible.

While students may receive guidance from academic advisors or program directors, they remain responsible for fulfilling the requirements outlined in the catalog relevant to their enrollment year and for staying informed about any updates to policies, provisions, or requirements.