Geographic Information Systems Certificate

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Geographic Information Systems study geospatial phenomena using concepts, techniques, tools, and data associated with georeferenced information, remote sensing, data visualization, global positioning systems, and spatial analysis.  Over the last few decades, these theories and technologies have gained prominence in geography and are revolutionizing methods in associated fields of research including the environmental, health, social, behavioral, and biophysical sciences, as well as the operations of municipal organizations, business, industry, government, and nonprofit organizations.  Students earning a GISC will be highly educated graduates who can use geospatial technologies and data analysis techniques to anticipate and respond effectively to challenges and solve complex problems.  They will be able to apply their geospatial education to anticipate uncertainties, solve complex problems, and respond effectively to challenges with confidence and reasoned judgment.

At the completion of the certificate program, a student should be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental concepts and practices of GIS and advances in Geospatial Information Science and Technology (GIST).

• Apply GIS analyses to geospatial problems and research questions.

• Demonstrate proficiency in the use of GIS tools to create maps and other geospatial products that are designed–for–purpose and effectively convey information.

• Apply basic geovisualization concepts such as color theory, symbolization, and map design to enable analyses of problems with a geospatial component.

• Gather and process original data using a Global Positioning System (GPS) and demonstrate proficiency in theory and application of different referencing methods.

• Demonstrate organizational skills in spatial data and project management.

• Demonstrate confidence in undertaking new analyses using GIS and troubleshoot problems in GIS.

• Apply modeling, mathematical concepts, and statistical methods to the analysis of complex geospatial problems in a variety of professional settings.

 

Program Notes

• Students who have successfully completed GEV 4700 at Villanova University or at an equivalent course at another institution (after review by the GISC Program Coordinator) will have the requirement for GEV 7040 waived in place of an additional 4 credits of electives. Students who have substantial professional experience with GIS will be interviewed by the GISC Program Coordinator and will, at the Program Coordinator’s discretion, likewise have the requirement for GEV 7040 waived in place for elective credits.

• Students enrolled in the MSES program may count courses completed as part of their MS degree towards the GISC.

• Students will complete the 0-credit GEV 9003 GIS Portfolio course in their final semester, which entails the development and presentation of a portfolio of work completed during the GISC program.

Required Courses

8 credits

Course
Title
Credits
Sub-Total Credits
8

Elective Courses

6 credits

Course
Title
Credits
Sub-Total Credits
25
Total Credits:
14

 

Disclaimer:
In order that programs offered by Villanova University reflect current advances and additions to knowledge and upgraded professional requirements, Villanova University reserves the right to change programs and requirements without prior notice. Students generally are bound to the requirements in effect and published on the world wide web for the year in which their class begins its first year of study. Special requirements may be in effect for students who have left the University and are being readmitted. Students are advised to check with the web catalog or with their college offices regarding changes that may affect them. Additional academic information may be obtained from the various college offices and the web sites listed for the particular policies, programs and services found in this catalog.

Overview

Program

Environmental Science

Type

Graduate Certificate