GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Certificate

Coordinator: Kimberly Hannula
Email: hannula_k@fortlewis.edu

Professor: William (Scott) White
Assistant Professor: Jonathan Harvey

The certificate programs consist of a specified set of academic courses that focus on a specific topic, representing a coherent and relatively free standing body of knowledge. Successful completion of a certificate signifies the achievement of competence in the specified domain and is recognized by the awarding of a certificate (an official document) from the sponsoring department or program. Completion of certificate programs approved by the College will also be noted on the official student transcript.

What is GIS?
A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a digital map database and set of software programs that include an integrated set of tools for storing, querying, analyzing, and displaying georeferenced information. GIS merges theoretical and practical aspects of spatial analysis across many different disciplines, such as environmental biology, geology, archeology, agriculture, computer-aided drafting (CAD) and engineering, computer science, business administration, and, of course, geography. A GIS is used to build cartographic databases, create attributes for map information, and analyze and visualize complex spatial relationships in the mapped information. Students enrolled in the GIS Certificate Program take courses in which they gain valuable experience using industry-standard GIS software, such as Esri’s ArcGIS, as well as familiarity with various modern field mapping procedures using Global Positioning System (GPS) units. Surveying, remote sensing, and programming and web mapping courses provide additional fundamental skills related to GIS. Completion of the GIS Certificate will provide the student with skills and experience that are in high demand in today’s workplace.

Software and Hardware
Fort Lewis College has a site license for Esri’s ArcGIS Desktop and ArcGIS Pro software, as well as an ArcGIS Online organizational account. The desktop software is available on all Windows-based computer labs on campus. In addition to modern Windows 10 computers, students gain experience using tools such as Garmin and Trimble GPS units for surveying and mapping.

Careers in GIS
GIS skills are in very high demand in many different fields. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment of professional mapmakers, GIS analysts and cartographers, and photogrammetrists is projected to grow 29% from 2014-2024, much faster than average for all other occupations. At Fort Lewis College, the GIS Certificate aligns closely with the subjects of environmental studies, geology, biology, public health, archeology, engineering, business administration, and of course, geography.

The Fort Lewis College GIS Certificate Program

Students who are seeking the GIS Certificate should declare their intention using Change or Declaration form. At the same time, they should discuss their academic plans with the coordinator of the GIS Certificate Program. Final outcomes include a printed certificate, and a statement on the student’s official college transcript indicating the date of completion of the GIS Certificate.

For more information, students should contact the GIS Certificate Program Coordinator, Dr. Scott White and visit the Certificate’s website. Click here for more information.

Requirements for Certificate Students

A minimum “C” grade must be earned in each course applied toward the certificate program.
All coursework must be in graded courses. Pass/fail work will not be accepted toward certificate requirements.
At least 50% of the coursework toward the certificate must be earned at Fort Lewis College.
Students must matriculated through the Office of Admission as a credential seeking student.
Certificate coursework may also be applied in fulfillment of requirements for departmental majors or minors.
Courses taken prior to admission to the certificate program can be counted toward the certificate only with the program director’s specific approval.
Certificates will not be awarded to individuals who have completed all of the coursework prior to admission to the certificate program.