About this Program

The certificate in geographic information science (GISci) provides a program for students and professionals pursuing careers in geographic information systems (GIS) and related spatial technologies (remote sensing, global positioning systems, cartography, and spatial data handling and analysis). Awarded upon completion of the requirements, the certificate is an affidavit of academic proficiency and is administered by the Department of Political Science and Geography.

Program Highlights

  • The GISCience certificate complements many undergraduate majors and provides a foundation in the theory and hands-on skills using GIS and its associated technology.

  • The program goes beyond desktop GIS software and data to include satellite and other remotely sensed imagery, manipulating data for online analysis and sharing or collecting using field or mobile web applications. Students earning the GISci Certificate are able to work across diverse computing platforms and to analyze spatial Big Data.

AT A GLANCE
Degree Level
Undergraduate
Degree Earned
Undergraduate Certificate
Delivery Modes
On-Campus

Careers

Check out these ideas from ODU's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Cartographers and Photogrammetrists

$67,390 Median Salary

Collect, analyze, and interpret geographic information provided by geodetic surveys, aerial photographs, and satellite data. Research, study, and prepare maps and other spatial data in digital or graphic form for legal, social, political, educational, and design purposes. May work with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). May design and evaluate algorithms, data structures, and user interfaces for GIS and mapping systems.

Geographic Information Systems Technicians

$91,080 Median Salary

Assist scientists, technologists, or related professionals in building, maintaining, modifying, or using geographic information systems (GIS) databases. May also perform some custom application development or provide user support.

Web Developers

$74,110 Median Salary

Design, create, and modify Web sites. Analyze user needs to implement Web site content, graphics, performance, and capacity. May integrate Web sites with other computer applications. May convert written, graphic, audio, and video components to compatible Web formats by using software designed to facilitate the creation of Web and multimedia content.

Geospatial Information Scientists and Technologists

$91,080 Median Salary

Research or develop geospatial technologies. May produce databases, perform applications programming, or coordinate projects. May specialize in areas such as agriculture, mining, health care, retail trade, urban planning, or military intelligence.

Alumni Careers

Esri
Tetratech
VDOT
Dominion Energy
Booz Allen Hamilton
Federal Civil Service

Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for Geographic Information Science at ODU?
Students entering the Undergraduate Certificate program in Geographic Information Science should meet the minimum university admission requirements Undergraduate Admission.

Transfer

At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...

Cost

Estimated rates for the 2024-25 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Active Duty Military Rate
Cost Per-Credit $250
Virginia Resident
Cost Per-Credit $408
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Cost Per-Credit $439
Non-Resident
Cost Per-Credit $1,109

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial Aid.

Internships

Many students work professionally in careers and pursue the graduate certificate part-time or alongside another graduate degree program. Some students work as research assistants for professors or as paid interns with local government, NASA, or private industry.

Contact

GIS Certificate Program Coordinator

7035 BATTEN ARTS & LETTERS
NORFOLK, 23529