Geospatial Technology, CTS

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Knowledge of geospatial technology is an increasingly sought-after skill in industries ranging from natural resources to public health. This certificate program teaches skills needed to successfully use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software and other related technologies in a professional setting. This program contains significant hands-on experiences in GIS, Global Positioning System (GPS) mapping, remote sensing, and unmanned aerial mapping systems, as well as individual capstone projects. This certificate complements any major at FVCC and provide an opportunity for working professionals to develop geospatial skills. Upon completion of this program, students will be able to

Use a variety of GIS application programs to create and analyze geospatial data;
Acquire geospatial data from GPS devices, existing Earth observation satellites, and unmanned aerial mapping systems;
Design database structures to store and retrieve data;
Present cartographic results in both print and web formats; and
Implement independent projects to include formulating spatial questions, identifying and acquiring necessary data, developing and implementing appropriate workflows, and summarizing results in both written and map formats.

Fall Semester

GPHY 150 - Introduction to Geospatial Technology and Land Information Credit(s): 2
GPHY 250 - Web GIS Credit(s): 2
GPHY 284 - Introduction to GIS Science and Cartography Credit(s): 4
SRVY 248 - Unmanned Aerial Mapping Systems Credit(s): 2
SRVY 290 - Undergraduate Research: Projects in GIS Credit(s): 2

First Semester Total: 12

Spring Semester

CSCI 127 - Joy and Beauty of Data Credit(s): 4
OR
CSCI 240 - Databases and SQL Credit(s): 3
OR
SRVY 280 - Land Surveying Computers Credit(s): 2 *
GPHY 286 - Advanced GIS Credit(s): 4 *
SRVY 245 - GPS Mapping Credit(s): 2 *
SRVY 275 - Analytic Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing Credit(s): 3 *
SRVY 290 - Undergraduate Research: Projects in GIS Credit(s): 2

Second Semester Total: 13-15

Total Credits: 25-27

*Indicates prerequisite and/or corequisite needed. Check course description.

Program Information

Students employed in a professional setting may be able to satisfy the project requirements of the SRVY 290 credits within their current work responsibilities.
Students in this program are expected to have a basic level of computer proficiency.
Courses in this program include lab fees at approximately $20 per course.

Opportunities after Graduation

The uses of geospatial technology are widespread and diverse. As a result, it is identified by the Department of Labor as a high-growth industry. Geospatial technology is used by anyone in need of understanding spatial relationships including the following professions: forestry, wildlife biology, environmental science, hydrology, planning, public health, criminal justice, homeland security, emergency management, business, and engineering, among many others. The national geospatial technology job market is growing at an annual rate of almost 35 percent (Geospatial Information & Technology Association).

Advising Information:

For more information about this program, contact the FVCC Student Support Center or the Faculty Advisor.

Student Support Center Advisor	Faculty Advisor
Russ Lamson	Tim Eichner, M.S.
LRC 129	RH 155
(406) 756-3885	(406) 756-3898
rlamson@fvcc.edu	teichner@fvcc.edu