Geographic Information Science (BA or BS)

Program Overview

The Geographic Information Science program at the University of Connecticut provides students with the skills and knowledge to analyze and interpret spatial data using geospatial technologies. Students can choose between a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree, with the BS focusing on natural science and engineering careers and the BA focusing on spatial analysis for social issues. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and prepares graduates for high-demand careers in fields such as geospatial analysis, environmental consulting, and urban planning.

Program Outline

Objectives:

The program aims to provide students with:

• Spatial thinking skills: Analyzing and interpreting spatial data to solve problems.
• Geospatial technology expertise: Mastering tools like GISystems, remote sensing, GPS, and spatial statistics for mapping and analyzing Earth and human societies.
• Career preparation: Equipping graduates for diverse job opportunities in the public and private sectors, with a focus on data-driven decision-making.

Program Description:

Students can choose between a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree. The BS route requires biology, chemistry, physics, and calculus, focusing on natural science and engineering careers. The BA route omits these subjects, focusing on spatial analysis for social issues.

Outline:

Structure:

The program requires at least 26 credits of 2000-level or higher courses in the Department of Geography.

Course Schedule:

• Recommended preparation: GEOG 1010 "New Digital Worlds of Geographic Information Science" and GEOG 1302 "GIS Modeling of Environmental Change."
• Required Core Courses:
• GEOG 2505 "Applications of Geographic Information Systems" (3 credits)
• GEOG 3510 "Cartographic Techniques" (3 credits)
• GEOG 3530 "Introduction to GeoComputing" (3 credits)
• One or three credits of any GEOG W course at the 2000 level or above.
• Electives:
• 12 credits from the list of GIScience courses (at least 6 credits must be 4000-level)
• Alternatively, 12 credits from related courses in other departments with advisor approval.
• Examples: Remote sensing courses, computer science and engineering courses, math and statistics courses, social science courses, natural science courses, economics courses.
• Up to 6 credits of internship or independent study may be counted towards the electives.

Careers:

Potential career paths:

• Geospatial analyst
• GIS technician
• Cartographer
• Environmental consultant
• Urban planner
• Transportation planner
• Public health specialist
• Market researcher
• Data scientist

Opportunities:

• Employment in diverse sectors, including government agencies, private companies, non-profit organizations, and research institutions.
• Opportunities to work on projects with real-world impact, addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges.

Outcomes:

• Graduates are prepared for employment in high-demand fields with competitive salaries.
• The program equips students with the skills and knowledge to pursue further studies in related fields.

Other:

• The program emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory exercises, field trips, and internships.
• Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and software.
• The program offers opportunities for independent research and collaboration with faculty.