GIS (an option within the Spatial Information Technology program) is a computer-based system that connects tabular or text data in a database with spatial data, such as a digital map or image. GIS allows for the compilation of various types of data from multiple sources, analysis of the data, and the display of the results in a graphical-spatial context for rapid comprehension by the audience.
Geospatial Technology has been identified as a high growth industry by the US Department of Labor with market revenues in excess of $30 billion. Geospatial products and specialists are expected to play a large role in homeland security activities. Information gathering needs to protect critical infrastructure have resulted in an enormous increase in the demand for such skills and jobs. (Lorraine Castro, NIMA Human Resources Department, 2003) Increasing demand for readily available, consistent, accurate, complete and current geographic information and the widespread availability and use of advanced technologies offer great job opportunities for people with many different talents and educational backgrounds. (US Geological Survey and US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
The program utilizes Environmental Systems Research Institute's (ESRI) latest GIS software packages. Students who choose this concentration receive training on AutoDesk's AutoCAD software package; extended training in GIS theory, GIS programming, and GIS projects centered on ESRI's ArcGIS and Idrisi image processing software packages. Students also receive training in the theory and use of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) utilizing the college's state of the art receivers and software. Support courses include cartography, remote sensing and digital image processing, database development, and survey methods. General education courses in math, English, science, and social science complete the student's well-rounded education.
A one-year GIS certificate provides an academic option in Spatial Information Technology geared towards recent four-year graduates who wish to acquire technical expertise in GIS or working professionals who could benefit from specialized training in GIS. GIS is a valuable and marketable skill in professions such as agriculture, resource management, epidemiology, real estate, marketing, law enforcement, conservation, forestry, transportation, urban and regional planning, public safety and emergency management.
Upon graduation, students are prepared to apply for the position of GIS technician.
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| Fall Semester | Lec | Lab | Cr | |
| COM119 | Introduction to AutoCAD | 1 | 4 | 3 |
| ENG120 | College Composition | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| FOR211 | Intro to Tree and Shrub Identification | 0 | 2 | 1 |
| GIS112 | Intro to Geographic Information Systems | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| MAT112 | Algebra & Trigonometry I | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| SUR111 | Methods of Surveying | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| Semester Total | 11 | 10 | 16 | |
| Spring Semester | Lec | Lab | Cr | |
| COM214 | Database Development | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| ENG211 | Technical Writing | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| GIS111 | Introduction to Cartography | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| GIS211 | Geographic Information Systems Applications | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| MAT214 | Statistics | 4 | 0 | 4 |
| SIT Department Elective (or permission of advisor) | 2 | 2 | 3 | |
| Semester Total | 15 | 8 | 19 | |
| First Year Total | 35 | |||
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| Fall Semester | Lec | Lab | Cr | |
| ECO111 | Principles of Macroeconomics | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| OR | ||||
| ECO112 | Principles of Microeconomics | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| GIS213 | Remote Sensing and Digital Image Processing | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| GIS214 | Advanced Geographic Information Systems | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| MAT211 | Algebra & Trigonometry II | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| SUR219 | Global Positioning Systems | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| Semester Total | 12 | 6 | 15 | |
| Spring Semester | Lec | Lab | Cr | |
| GIS215 | Geographic Information Systems Project | 0 | 6 | 3 |
| GIS216 | GIS Programming | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| PHY112 | Physics I | 3 | 2 | 4 |
| OR | ||||
| GEO112 | Geology and Soils | 3 | 2 | 4 |
| Humanities Elective | 3 | 0 | 3 | |
| SIT Department Elective | 2 | 2 | 3 | |
| Semester Total | 10 | 12 | 16 | |
| Second Year Total | 31 | |||
| Total for A.S. Degree | 66 | |||
