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
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The GISCience certificate complements many undergraduate majors and provides a foundation in the theory and hands-on skills using GIS and its associated technology.
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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.
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.
Geospatial Information Scientists and Technologists
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.
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
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.
Web Developers
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.
Geographic Information Systems Technicians
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.
Alumni Careers
Requirements
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...
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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.
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.
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