CGS Geospatial Artificial Intelligence and Big Data Analytics
Program Overview
The University at Albany's 15-credit Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) equips professionals and graduate students with technical skills in GIS applications and spatial analysis. The program covers statistical methods, GIS principles, remote sensing, advanced cartography, and real-world problem-solving. Graduates are prepared for careers in environmental consulting, urban planning, natural resource management, and other fields requiring geographic data analysis.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The University at Albany offers a 15-credit Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This program is designed to provide working professionals and graduate students with valuable technical training in problem-solving GIS applications and methods of spatial analysis.
Objectives:
- Participants will gain proficiency in cartography, GIS, remote sensing, and statistical analysis.
- Participants will gain knowledge in the applications of these methods in various fields, including environmental, urban, and land use analysis; planning; and resource applications.
- Qualified students are encouraged to participate in advanced internships and practical experiences.
Program Description:
The GIS certificate program provides hands-on experience with geospatial technologies and associated artificial intelligence techniques and big data analysis. The five-course curriculum covers:
- Responding to urban emergencies
- Tracking environmental change
- Predicting natural disasters
- Identifying emerging social issues
- Studying socioeconomic and market trends
Supplemental Degree Program:
This certification can be added as a supplemental degree through the MyUAlbany portal for students enrolled in specific UAlbany programs, including:
- Anthropology MA, PhD
- Atmospheric Science MS, PhD
- Criminal Justice MA, PhD
- Environmental Health Sciences MS, PhD
- Epidemiology MS, PhD
- Information Science MS, PhD
- Public Health MPH, DrPH
- Sociology MA, PhD
Outline:
Program Content:
Structure:
The program consists of five graduate-level courses, each requiring 3 credits. Students can complete the program in one year of full-time study or two years of part-time study.
Course Schedule:
The program offers courses in the fall and spring semesters.
Individual Modules:
- Statistical Methods:
- Introduction to statistical analysis concepts
- Descriptive statistics
- Inferential statistics
- Hypothesis testing
- Regression analysis
- Introduction to GIS concepts and principles
- Data collection methods
- Spatial analysis techniques
- GIS software applications
- Cartographic principles
- Remote Sensing II:
- Advanced remote sensing techniques
- Image interpretation
- Land cover classification
- Change detection
- Hyperspectral remote sensing
- Advanced Cartography:
- Advanced cartographic methods
- Thematic map design
- Geographic visualization
- Cartographic production techniques
- Seminar in Geographic Information Systems:
- Applying GIS to real-world problems
- Project management
- Communication and presentation skills
Assessment: The program uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
- Exams
- Assignments
- Projects
- Presentations The specific assessment criteria for each course are determined by the instructor.
Teaching: The program is taught by experienced faculty with expertise in GIS, remote sensing, and spatial analysis. The teaching methods include:
- Lectures
- Hands-on labs
- Group discussions
- Independent research The program also utilizes a variety of software applications, including ArcGIS, ERDAS Imagine, and ENVI.
Careers: Graduates of the program will be prepared for careers in various fields, including:
- Environmental consulting
- Urban planning
- Natural resource management
- Public health
- Market research
- Geographic data analysis
Other:
Admission Requirements:
- Applicants must have a bachelor's degree in a related field.
- Applicants must demonstrate their interest in using geographic data to support their academic or professional work.
Overview:
University at Albany, also known as the University at Albany - State University of New York, is a public research university located in Albany, New York. It is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system and has a long history, having been established in 1844. The university is known for its diverse academic programs, strong research focus, and commitment to public engagement.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Provides guidance and support to students in choosing courses, planning their academic careers, and navigating university resources.Libraries:
Offers access to a vast collection of books, journals, databases, and other research materials.Career Services:
Assists students in exploring career options, developing job search skills, and connecting with potential employers.Student Life:
Provides opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, organizations, and social events.Residential Life:
Offers on-campus housing options for students, fostering a sense of community and providing support services.Dining:
Provides a variety of dining options on campus, catering to different dietary needs and preferences.Athletics:
Offers a variety of intercollegiate sports programs for students to participate in or cheer for.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at University at Albany can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, organizations, and social events. The campus is located in a city setting, providing easy access to cultural attractions, entertainment venues, and dining options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Diverse Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, allowing students to pursue their interests and career goals.Strong Research Focus:
The university is a leading research institution, providing students with opportunities to engage in research projects and collaborate with faculty experts.Commitment to Public Engagement:
The university is deeply committed to serving the community and addressing societal challenges through research, outreach, and public service initiatives.Faculty Access:
The university has a low student-faculty ratio, ensuring that students have ample opportunities to interact with and learn from their professors.Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
Over 50 undergraduate majors across various disciplines, including the arts, sciences, humanities, social sciences, business, education, and engineering.Graduate Programs:
A wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees, in fields such as business, education, public health, criminal justice, and the sciences.Online Learning:
Offers a variety of online courses and programs for students who prefer flexible learning options.Other:
The university has a strong alumni network, with over 195,000 alumni who support the university and its students. The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, focusing on areas such as nanotechnology, public health, and environmental science.
Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students:
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in a relevant field, such as geography, environmental science, urban planning, or computer science.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Completion of introductory coursework in statistics, GIS, and remote sensing.
International Overseas Students:
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in a relevant field, such as geography, environmental science, urban planning, or computer science.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Completion of introductory coursework in statistics, GIS, and remote sensing.
- Proficiency in English language.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- International students whose native language is not English must demonstrate proficiency through one of the following tests:
- TOEFL: Minimum score of 80
- IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.5, with no individual band score lower than 6.0
