GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS)
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BS in Information Systems
GIS Specialization



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Geographic Information System Specialization
BS in Information Systems

The Bachelor of Science in Information Systems, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) specialization program combines the systems analysis and design components of a general Information Systems degree with courses in the exciting and rapidly developing field of Geographic Information Systems. The GIS specialization is suitable not only for students who are interested in GIS as a career, but also for students who want a general degree in information systems but wish to apply the general principles to a specific discipline. Graduates will be able to apply fundamental systems analysis and design concepts and problem-solving strategies to information technology problems. Analyze, design, and implement solutions to business problems. Create and test computer information systems solutions for business problems. Design maps and interpret information from a variety of visual presentations of abstract geographic information.

Courses in the BS in Information Systems / GIS specialization program include:

• Introduction to GIS
• Principles of Cartography
• Intermediate GIS
• Remote Sensing of the Environment
• Introduction to Computer Science
• Information Systems Analysis
• Information Systems Design and Implementation
• Information Systems Project Management
• Advanced Data Systems

FAQs about Geographic Information Systems

1. What is GIS?

A geographic information system (GIS) integrates hardware, software, and data for capturing, managing, analyzing, and displaying all forms of geographically referenced information.

2. Where do I find a GIS job?

Geographic Information Specialists have career opportunities in many industries in the public and private sectors. Public sector jobs are available in defense, urban planning, health/epidemiology, emergency services management, utilities, demographics, environmental, and much more. Private sector jobs are available in real estate development, engineering, environmental science, mining, navigation, agriculture, marketing, energy exploration, etc.

3. What skills are required to be GIS professional?

Employers will typically require a degree in GIS, Geography, Computer Science, or Statistics. If other degrees are related to the employer's field, such as Urban Planning or Civil Engineering, they will accept applicants with those degrees.

Below are skills that are required of all GIS professionals

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY	GEOGRAPHY AND CARTOGRAPHY
Database Design	Map Design
Data Management	Spatial Relationships
User Interface Design	Spatial Analysis
Requirements Definition	2-D and 3-D Presentations
Hardware	Map Projection Systems
Graphics
Image Processing
GIS TECHNOLOGY	OTHER
GIS Software	Coordinate Geometry
Digitizing	Topology
Scanning	Presentation Skills
Data Conversion	Training Skills

4.What kinds of GIS career positions are there?

Here are some common GIS titles...

GIS Technician - Entry level position. Perform routine technical tasks using GIF software. May or may not require a degree, although degrees will give you a competitive edge. May require security clearance. Average salary for a GIS Technician with 1-4 years experience is in the mid $30K.
>> Review a GIS Technician Job Listing Sample

GIS Analyst - Technically oriented but varies greatly in duties and skills required. Responsible for spatial analysis and more senior responsibilities on projects. Generally has 3-7 years experience. Typically holds a bachelor's degree. May require security clearance. A GIS Analyst can earn approximately $45K to over $70K, depending on experience, position, and employer.
>> Review a GIS Analyst Job Listing Sample

GIS Manager - Manage technicians, analysts, and developers. Has 5-10 years experience. Typically holds a master's degree. Experience in GIS or as a manager in a technical field a must. Requires security clearance. A GIS Manager can earn between $40K to over $100K, depending on experience, position, and employer. Experience is a very important factor in determining a manager's salary.
>> Review a GIS Manager Job Listing Sample

GIS Developer - More technical than the work of an Analyst. Hold at least a bachelor's degree in GIS, computer science or equivalent experience. Must be experienced and proficient in computer software development. You develop customized GIS applications to meet the needs of your organization. A GIS Developer can earn between $40K and $95K depending on experience, position, and employer.
>> Review a GIS Developer Job Listing Sample

Please note that salary ranges are vast in GIS because the job descriptions and employers can vary so greatly in this industry. Salary figures have been determined by current GIS job listings and data provided by salary sites such as Indeed.com and Payscale.com.

5. Do I need any kind of certification?

There is not a required certification to get a GIS job. However, there is a GIS Certification offered by the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI), which would allow you to use the "GISP" designation. Candidates for this certification must meet minimum standards for educational achievement, professional experience, and manner in which he or she contributes back to the profession. Candidates must also abide by ethical guidelines. This certification can possibly increase your competitiveness and salary potential, but most of the jobs listings we've seen don't mention this certification as a required or preferred qualification.

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BS in Information Systems (GIS Specialization)
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