Objective: 
To study the principles and applications of the three components of geospatial information science: namely geographic information system, remote sensing and global positioning system.

Required Courses

Minor: A minimum grade of “C” in GIS 208, GIS 301, GIS 316, GIS 411, GIS 416 and

GIS 401  

Course Descriptions

Listed courses may not be taught every semester or every year. The department head and departmental advisors have information about projected course offerings for a semester/year.

GIS 208          AERIAL PHOTO INTERPRETATION AND MAP READING. (3).  Covers fundamental principles of aerial photo interpretation and the application of aerial photographs in various fields. It also addresses basic principles of map making and topographic map reading skills. . Two hours lecture and one two-hour laboratory.

GIS 301          INTRODUCTION TO GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM. (2). Designed to introduce students to Global Positioning System (GPS) technology.  Lectures will address geodesy, satellite orbits, data transmission, data collection and processing.  Laboratory exercises will provide familiarity with the operation of GPS receivers.

GIS 316          FUNDAMENTALS OF GIS. (3). Examines basic technical and analytical methods related to spatial databases, and geographic analysis between real world issues and digital relationships. Lectures will cover data sources and collection, analysis methods and computer technology. Two hours lecture and one two-hour laboratory. Prerequisite: GIS 208 and junior/senior standing or instructor's written permission.

GIS 401          COMPUTER ASSISTED CARTOGRAPHY. (3). This course is designed to teach the fundamentals of computer cartography to students who may have no background in computer science or cartography. Students will be introduced to a range of cartographic, GIS and mapping software. Two hours lecture and one two-hour laboratory. Prerequisite: GIS 208.

GIS 411          FUNDAMENTALS OF REMOTE SENSING.  (3). Covers basic concepts of remote sensing including electromagnetic radiation, sensors, platforms, and satellite systems. It also focuses on digital image processing techniques and application of satellite imagery to various disciplines. Prerequisite: GIS 208 and junior/senior standing or written permission of instructor.  Two hours lecture and one two-hour laboratory.

GIS 416          GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS APPLICATIONS. (4).

GIS applications course will examine advanced technical and analytical methods related to spatial databases and geographic objects.   Coordinate systems vector/raster structures, modeling and other items related to GIS projects will be covered. Three hours lecture and one two-hour laboratory. Prerequisite: GIS 316.