Online Applied Geospatial Technologies Certificate
The online Certificate in Applied Geospatial Technologies is designed for anyone looking for credentials to help them build or grow a career in geographic mapping and analysis.
Offered by the College of Arts & Sciences at the University of Louisville, this program is designed to teach students how to apply techniques of geographic information science (GIS) and collect, view, manipulate and analyze digital geographic data for a deeper understanding of the world around us. Through an introduction to GIS and hands-on experience using ArcGIS software, you will learn how to connect data sets to landscapes and communities, and provide insights about real-world environmental conditions and social problems.
Complete the certificate on your own time through fully online classes.
Learn MoreTake only 5 courses to earn your certificate.
Learn MoreThis online program can be finished in just under a year!
What exactly is geospatial tech?
Read more about the technology and what our online certificate could mean for your future.
READ MORE: New Online Geospatial Tech Certificate Could Be Your Map to More
Highlights
- Acquire skills in computing, problem-solving and project management that will be of use throughout your professional career in the applied geospatial technologies field.
- Discover state-of-the-art methods and techniques within the field.
- Learn from expert faculty who are actively advancing the field through research in Environmental Remote Sensing, GIS, Spatial Analysis and Modeling.
- Join a reputable program from a nationally-recognized metropolitan research university.
- Connect and network with professionals across the industry.
- Take advantage of 100% online courses and 24/7 class access.
- Get a jumpstart on a bachelor’s degree—all credits earned in this program can be applied toward a bachelor’s degree from the Department of Geography and Geosciences at the University of Louisville.
Outcomes
The Certificate in Applied Geospatial Technologies is relevant in a wide range of fields including but not limited to:
- Business economics
- Defense industry
- Environmental resource management
- Landscape architecture
- Law enforcement
- Local government
- Political science
- Public health
- Surveying and cartography
- Urban planning
| Preferred Application Deadline | Term | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| August 1 | Fall | August |
| December 1 | Spring | January |
| April 1 | Summer | May/June |
Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The preferred deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. We review applications as they become complete, and admit students for a specific term up to the day classes start. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.
Steps to Apply
- Complete non-degree student application (select "continuing studies")
- Submit $25 non-refundable application fee
- Submit ACT score or college transcripts (as applicable)
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma from an accredited institution (GED or equivalent accepted by petition)
- Minimum high school GPA of 2.5
- Completion of pre-college curriculum
- Composite ACT score of 20 or higher
For more information on the admission and application process, please contact our Online Learning Enrollment Counselor at 800.871.8635 or by email at online@louisville.edu.
The online Certificate in Applied Geospatial Technologies is a 15 credit hour program that requires 6 credit hours in core courses and 9 credit hours in electives. Students must complete required courses for the certificate with a GPA of 2.75 or above.
Core Courses
| Course List | Hours |
|---|---|
| GEOG 350 Introduction to Mapping and Geospatial Technologies | 3 |
| GEOG 558 Introduction to GIS | 3 |
| Total | 6 |
Elective Courses
| Course [choose 3] | Hours |
|---|---|
| GEOG 355 Introduction to Remote Sensing | 3 |
| GEOG 356 Introduction to Spatial Statistics | 3 |
| GEOG 385 Introduction to Programming for GIS and Spatial Data Analysis | 3 |
| GEOG 531 GIS and Urban Demographic Analysis | 3 |
| GEOS 571 GIS and Water Resources | 3 |
| GEOG 590 Spatial and Non-Spatial Database Management | 3 |
Course Descriptions
GEOG 350 Introduction to Mapping and Geospatial Technologies
Introduction to the concepts and methods of map construction and visualization, including scale, location, projection, design, symbolism and compilation. Students will explore these concepts and methods through the use of geospatial technologies.
GEOG 558 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
Introduction to geographic information systems using ArcGIS software, management of relational databases, and manipulation and graphical output of digital geo-spatial data.
GEOG 355 Introduction to Remote Sensing
This course provides an introduction to the theory and application of remote sensing data with weekly lab reports for hands-on-experience in the acquisition and utilization of remotely-sensed data in geographical/environmental research.
GEOG 356 Introduction to Spatial Statistics
Introduction to multivariate statistical analyses and spatial statistics, i.e. statistical methods that use space and spatial relationships directly in their mathematical computations.
GEOG 385 Introduction to Programming for GIS and Spatial Data Analysis
There are two primary goals for this course. First, students will learn introductory computer programming concepts and features. Students will deconstruct examples from a variety of programming and scripting languages (primarily Python, R, VBA, and IDL), learning how to identify common logic, flow control and syntactic features. Students will learn the purpose of these structures and how to start using the programming and scripting environments of common statistics, geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing (RS) platforms.
GEOG 531 GIS and Urban Demographic Analysis
Demographic analysis through the use of GIS technology. Emphasis placed on metropolitan area characteristics including population change, segregation, ethnic settlement, social and economic stratification and commuting.
GEOS 571 GIS and Water Resources
A study of the application of Geographic Information Science techniques in water resources research and management including: digital mapping of water resources, watershed delineation and modeling atmospheric, surface and groundwater processes.
GEOG 590 Spatial and Non-Spatial Database Management
Provides students with "hands-on" experience in development, management and integration of spatial and non-spatial databases, using GIS and database management software.