Geospatial Information Science and Technology (GIST)

What is Geographic Information Systems and Technology (GIST)? In a nutshell, GIST is about using mapped data to solve problems and make better decisions.

The list of industry and government applications is limitless: precision farming, archaeological site inventory, transportation and urban planning for sustainability, wildlife tracking, self-driving cars, new business locations to maximize profitability, utility line mapping and maintenance, supply chain and logistics, pollution modeling, crime mapping, military intelligence and operations, disaster prevention and mitigation, renewable energy site selection, forest health, pandemic tracking, emergency services response, oil and gas drilling, local tax assessor maps, surveying, and the list goes on…

The Geography Department offers a wide variety of courses in Geographic Information Systems and Technology (GIST), including GIS, Remote Sensing (RS) and related geospatial technologies such as drones and GPS/GNSS.  Your BS degree in Geography with a GIScience Area of Emphasis will include training with GIScience technologies and prepares your for a wide range of jobs in many industries.   Earn your degree in the classroom or 100% online!

GIScience example

B.S. in Geography with an Area of Emphasis in GIScience

Students specializing in the Geospatial Information Science (GIScience) area of emphasis must complete the Geography Core Requirements and the following GIScience courses.

Geospatial information science Area of Emphasis Courses

  • Note: These courses required in addition to the Geography BS core requirements of GEO423 Cartography and GIS and GEO426 Principles of GIS.
  • GEO 431 Remote Sensing and Photogrammetry (3 credit hours)
  • Technologies: Choose at least six credits from: GEO 110 Basic GIS (1 credit), GEO 111 Air Photos and Satellite lmagery (1 credit), GEO 112 Smartphone GPS (1 credit), GEO 113 Web GIS (1 credit), GEO 433 GPS and Mobile Geospatial Technologies (3 credits), GEO 454 Drones: Remote Sensing & GIS, GEO485-488 Independent Study (GIS/RS topics only; 1-4 credits)
  • Analysis and Applications: Choose a minimum of six credits from: GEO 429 Location Analysis and GIS (4 credits), GEO 430 Environmental Raster Analysis (4 credits), GEO 432 Enterprise GIS (3 credits), GEO434 Flood Hazards and GIS (3 credits), GEO 440 Spatial Statistics and GIS (4 credits), GEO485-488 Independent Study (GIS/RS topics only; 1-4 credits), GEO 490 Internship (1-6 credits)
  • Electives: Choose additional GIScience (GEO) courses to reach a minimum of 21 credit hours beyond the Geography Core Requirements.
Minor and Certificate Programs in GIScience

The Geography Department participates in an Undergraduate Minor in Geospatial Information Science, an Undergraduate Certificate in GIScience and two Graduate Certificates in GIScience.

Please see the Geospatial Information Science web site for more information.

Our latest Geospatial information science technology course features drones for Remote Sensing and GIS.

Geospatial information science courses
  • GEO110 – Basic GIS (1 hr.)
  • GEO111 – Air Photos and Satellite Imagery (1 hr.)
  • GEO112 – Intro to GPS (1 hr.)
  • GEO113 – Web GIS (1 hr.)
  • GEO423/523 – Cartography (3 hrs.)
  • GEO426/526 – Principles of GIS (4 hrs.)
  • GEO427/527 Principles of GIS 2
  • GEO429/529 – Location Analysis and GIS (4 hrs.)
  • GEO430/530 – Environmental Raster Analysis (4 hrs.)
  • GEO431/531 – Remote Sensing and Photogrammetry (3 hrs.)
  • GEO432/532 – Enterprise GIS (3 hrs.)
  • GEO433/533 – GPS and Mobile Geospatial Technologies (3 hrs.)
  • GEO440/540 – Spatial Statistics and GIS (4 hrs.)
  • GEO454/554 – Drones: GIS and Remote Sensing (3 hrs.)
  • GEO480-483 – Special Topics (1-4 hours; can be GIS/RS; see an advisor)
  • GEO485 – Independent Study (1-4 hours; can be GIS/RS; see an advisor)
  • GEO490 – Internship (1-6 hours; can be GIS/RS; see an advisor)
  • GEO499 – Senior Capstone Project (3 hrs.; can be GIS/RS; see an advisor)
  • GEO631 – Advanced GIS Projects (3 hrs.)
  • GEO634 – GIS Programming and Databases (3 hrs.)
  • GEO690 – Internship (can be GIS/RS)
  • Special Topics courses

GIS Jobs

Water Quality Permit Administrator (Environmental Specialist 1)
Keeping Washington Clean and EvergreenThe Water Quality Program within the Department of Ecology is looking to fill a Water Quality Permit Administrator (Environmental Specialist 1) position. This position is located in our Southwest Region Of...
Mar 24, 2023 7:06pm
Natural Resource Management Technician (AmeriCorps)
Description:Great Basin Institute, in partnership with NPS Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve (CRMO), is recruiting one (2-3) Natural Resource Technicians. The Technicians will work alongside NPS personnel and receive mentorship and t...
Mar 23, 2023 11:13pm
GIS Technician
Information System Specialist 2 – GIS Technician Oregon Department of Transportation Policy, Data & Analysis Division - Geographic Information Services Unit Trans Data/ GIS Unit Salem The role: Our Geographic Information Services Unit prepares ur...
Mar 23, 2023 9:45pm
23-52 Agricultural Water Data Specialist (Data Analyst II)
Only candidates who apply via email to (HR “at” TWDB.texas.gov) with an official State of Texas Application or through the WorkInTexas.com website will be considered for this position. View this position and apply at https://tinyurl.com/2zdmpkjd...
Mar 23, 2023 7:55pm
Plant and Pollinator Project Lead/Wildlife Associate
Description:In partnership with the BLM Elko District Office, GBI is recruiting a Sensitive Plant and Pollinator Project Lead/Wildlife Technician to assist with wildlife, restoration, and natural resources monitoring programs. This individual will su...
Jan 18, 2023 1:02am
Wildlife/Waterfowl Technician (Ruby Lake NWR)
Description:In cooperation with the US Fish and Wildlife Service at Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge, the Great Basin Institute is recruiting one Wildlife/Waterfowl Technician to join our AmeriCorps program. The National Wildlife Refuge System (NWR...
Mar 8, 2023 11:22pm
Nonpoint Source Water Quality and Shellfish Specialist (Environmental Specialist 3)
Keeping Washington Clean and EvergreenThe Water Quality Program within the Department of Ecology is looking to fill a Nonpoint Source Water Quality and Shellfish Specialist (Environmental Specialist 3) position. This position is located in our...
Mar 23, 2023 4:06pm
Geocomputation Research Specialist at EPA
The EPA National Student Services Contract has an immediate opening for a full-time contractor position; Geocomputation Research Specialist with the Office of Research and Development at the EPA facility in Cincinnati, OH.Salary: $37.31 per hour.Tra...
Mar 23, 2023 3:08pm
Administrative Specialist - Engineering and GIS Department
This position will perform advanced skilled administrative support work for the Engineering and GIS Department director and staff. Work is performed under the limited supervision of the Director of Engineering and GIS.Shift: Monday - Friday 8:00 am -...
Mar 23, 2023 1:50pm
Dispersed Education and Interpretation Technician (USFS Mount St. Helens, South)
Description:The Great Basin Institute, in cooperation with the United States Forest Service, specifically Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, managed by Gifford Pinchot National Forest, is recruiting (2) Dispersed Interpretation Technicians ...
Feb 9, 2023 6:46pm
Invasive Plants Survey Technician (USFS Humboldt-Toiyabe, Multiple NV and CA sites)
Description:Invasive plants have been identified as a major threat to the biological diversity and ecological integrity in and near the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest (HTNF). Invasive plants displace native plants; reduce the forest’s capacity fo...
Jan 30, 2023 2:00am
Botany Field Team Technician
Description:The Great Basin Institute, in cooperation with the National Park Service and Capitol Reef National Park, is recruiting a Botany Technician to join the AmeriCorps program. The Botany Technician will support the Capitol Reef National Park D...
Dec 22, 2022 6:43am
Geographic Information System (GIS) Analyst (Req ID 4347)
Job OverviewSystem (GIS) experience relating to geographic analysis of Army defined parameters and/or other factors, image processing, interpretation and application of geographic data digitizing, editing and integration and presentation. The Analys...
Mar 21, 2023 9:28pm
Mapping/Drafting Associate
About the RoleMaintains and updates KUB’s utility records, mapping and asset management system usingESRI, GPS and AutoCAD software. Responsible for using KUB’s engineering IT systems to keepfield assets accurately mapped and create As-Built drawi...
Mar 21, 2023 5:23pm
Hydrogeologist (Natural Resource Specialist 5 - Hydrogeologist)
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality strives to build and sustain an inclusive environment that embraces and values diversity. Employees at all levels of the agency work together to foster fairness, equity, inclusion, and belonging. We are ...
Mar 21, 2023 4:49pm
Remedial Action Hydrogeologist (Natural Resource Specialist 4 - Hydrogeologist)
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality strives to build and sustain an inclusive environment that embraces and values diversity. Employees at all levels of the agency work together to foster fairness, equity, inclusion, and belonging. We are ...
Mar 21, 2023 3:52pm
23-48 Geographic Information Specialist II
Only candidates who apply via email to (HR “at” TWDB.texas.gov) with an official State of Texas Application or through the WorkInTexas.com website will be considered for this position. View this position and apply at https://tinyurl.com/2hs5a88m...
Mar 21, 2023 2:46pm
Human Geography Linguist
Human Geography Linguists apply expertise in geography, foreign languages, and linguistics to analyze foreign language sources and to develop policy recommendations for the standardization of foreign geographic names. They monitor and conduct foreign...
Mar 21, 2023 12:43pm
Air Quality IT Application Developer Journey
Keeping Washington Clean and EvergreenThe Air Quality Program (AQP) within the Department of Ecology is looking to fill an IT Application Developer (Journey Level) position. This position is located in our Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA. U...
Mar 20, 2023 6:02pm
Human Geography Linguist
Human Geography Linguists apply expertise in geography, foreign languages, and linguistics to analyze foreign language sources and to develop policy recommendations for the standardization of foreign geographic names. They monitor and conduct foreign...
Mar 20, 2023 5:11pm
West Michigan Crew Leader
Who We Are: The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a...
Mar 20, 2023 2:25pm
West Michigan Crew Member
Become a force for nature and a healthy planet by joining the Michigan team! Who We Are: The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the...
Mar 20, 2023 2:17pm
Environmental Program Coordinator
Applicants Please Read:This position will be located at Reicher Ranch, 3621 South FM 620, Austin, TX 78738.This is a remote facility with no access to rideshare options for travel. Once at the site, the candidate may travel on City business regular...
Mar 20, 2023 1:16pm
GIS Application Developer - Journey
Keeping Washington Clean and EvergreenDo you enjoy working with a high performing team, constantly challenging yourself, and learning new things? Do you enjoy staying busy and taking on a variety of duties? Do you want to work in a place that truly v...
Mar 17, 2023 5:13pm
Geocomputation Research for Doctoral Candidate
The EPA National Student Services Contract has an immediate opening for a full-time contractor position; Geocomputation Research with the Office of Research and Development at the EPA facility in Cincinnati, OH.Salary: $37.31 per hour.Travel: Occasio...
Mar 16, 2023 5:28pm
Data Analyst - Job ID 63976
Make a difference in the lives of Minnesotans.The work you’ll do is more than just a job. Join the talented, engaged and inclusive workforce dedicated to creating a better Minnesota.Job SummaryAs a Data Analyst at the Minnesota Pollution Control Ag...
Mar 15, 2023 7:13pm
Geographic Information System Specialist
Information about Bishop California and the surrounding area can be found at Bishop California.This is a temporary appointment. Appointment to this position will not convey permanent status and will be for a period not-to-exceed 1039 hours (6 month...
Mar 15, 2023 1:20am
Consulting Utility Forester | Roseburg, OR
We empower the best people to help sustain our world. 100% employee-owned. Independence guaranteed.Company:ACRT, Inc.ACRT is currently seeking energetic experienced professionals who enjoy working outdoors! Our Consulting Utility Forester position is...
Mar 13, 2023 9:01pm
Associate Biologist-Field Coordinator - (1152)
Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium-size consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada, is looking for a regular, full-time Associate Biologist – Field Coordinator to manage work in the Southern Great P...
Mar 13, 2023 7:11pm
Environmental Technician I - (Dam Safety Program) - Temporary
Location:      Montpelier based with field work throughout VermontDuration:      Temporary appointment, Full-time May 2023 through August 2023 with possibility of part-time work in Fall 2023.  The Dam Safety Program of the Department of...
Mar 10, 2023 8:48pm
Engineer - Conservation District
Application RequirementsNorthampton County will require all newly hired employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before beginning employment with the County. This policy applies to all new hires who receive an offer of employment on or after...
Mar 10, 2023 4:41pm
Associate Biologist-Field Coordinator - (1148)
Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium-size consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada, is looking for a regular, full-time Associate Biologist – Field Coordinator to join our Bismarck, North Dakota, te...
Mar 9, 2023 5:01pm
Pre-Doctoral - Geocomputation Data Scientist
The EPA National Student Services Contract has an immediate opening for a full-time contractor position; Geocomputation Data Scientist with the Office of Research and Development at the EPA facility in Cincinnati, OH.Salary: $37.31 per hour.Travel: O...
Mar 9, 2023 2:15pm
Assistant Planner (Planner I)
1.            POSITION TITLE:         Assistant Planner (Planner I)  2.            DEPARTMENT:               Planning and Development 3.            PAY GRADE:               ...
Mar 8, 2023 9:12pm
Mechanical Engineer (Req 3987)
Job OverviewProvide engineering support in the design, construction, and maintenance for facilities at the NASA Johnson Space Center, White Sands Test Facility site, Las Cruces, NM. The Mechanical Engineer is responsible to lead and prepare engineeri...
Mar 8, 2023 7:47pm
Defense Related Uranium Mines (DRUM) Field Team Lead
About CompanyRSI EnTech (RSI) has provided services to major federal clients and Fortune 500 engineering and construction companies since 1996. RSI EnTech has more than two decades of experience in complex, highly regulated markets providing environm...
Mar 7, 2023 2:59pm
22-85 TexMesonet Field Technician (Hydrologist I-II)
Only candidates who apply via email to (HR “at” TWDB.texas.gov) with an official State of Texas Application or through the WorkInTexas.com website will be considered for this position. View this position and apply at  https://tinyurl.com/2f4bh2...
Mar 3, 2023 4:51pm
Water Research GIS Support
Apply Now! Applications Reviewed Daily.The EPA National Student Services Contract has an immediate opening for a full-time contractor position; Water Research GIS Support with the Office of Research and Development at the EPA facility in Research T...
Mar 3, 2023 2:37pm
Ecological Restoration Designer/Water Resources Engineer I
RES is currently accepting applications for an Ecological Restoration Designer/Water Resources Engineer I, based out of our Warrenton, VA office. The mission: Join a growing, multi-disciplinary team of ecosystem restoration designers and water r...
Mar 3, 2023 2:14pm
Water Resources Engineer - Ecological Restoration Design
RES is currently accepting applications for a Stream Restoration Designer (Water Resources Engineer) with 2-5yrs experience, based out of our Warrenton, VA office. The mission: Join a growing, multi-disciplinary team of restoration designers and...
Mar 3, 2023 2:12pm
AOT Technician IV - Stormwater
The Agency of Transportation (AOT) is seeking two (2) AOT Technical Apprentices. These positions will support work efforts noted under our Federal Highway Work Program and assist in maintaining compliance with Federal Clean Water Act NPDES Permits. ...
Mar 2, 2023 1:58pm
Graduate roadway engineer
n exciting opportunity at Mott MacDonald waits for graduate/entry-level transportation professionals in Atlanta, GA. We’re known for delivering projects in water, energy, transport, built environment, and advisory. Our South-Central team supports s...
Mar 2, 2023 12:57am
Assistant Research Scientist - Geocomputation Data
The EPA National Student Services Contract has an immediate opening for a full-time contractor position; Assistant Research Scientist - Geocomputation Data with the Office of Research and Development at the EPA facility in Cincinnati, OH.Salary: $37...
Mar 1, 2023 9:10pm
Senior Floodplain Management Planner (Environmental Planner 4)
Keeping Washington Clean and EvergreenThe Shorelands & Environmental Assistance (SEA) program within the Department of Ecology is looking to fill a Senior Floodplain Management Planner (Environmental Planner 4) position. This position can be loca...
Mar 1, 2023 4:02pm
Library Services Supervisor, Science & Engineering Libraries
Library Services Supervisor, Science & Engineering Libraries Applications must be submitted by clicking the Apply Externally Button at the top of this page or by clicking on this link > https://bit.ly/3YOsuPi Applications submitted directly through...
Feb 17, 2023 5:59pm
Natural Resources - Biologist Staff Professional
Position: Natural Resources - Biologist Staff ProfessionalRequisition Number: 2023-1710-03S&ME is a leading, multi-disciplined professional services firm comprised of dedicated and proud employee-owners tenaciously working together to solve highly co...
Feb 15, 2023 1:17am
Hancock Towpath Crew Leader
Conservation Begins HereThe Student Conservation Association (SCA), Americas #1 conservation service organization seeks qualified applicants to lead, educate, and inspire young adult members (18+) for the 2023 C&O Canal Program. Work as a leader to h...
Feb 14, 2023 3:25pm
Potomac Towpath Crew Leader
Conservation Begins Here®The Student Conservation Association (SCA), America’s #1 conservation service organization seeks qualified applicants to lead, educate, and inspire young adult members (18+) for the 2023 C&O Canal Program. Work as a leader...
Feb 14, 2023 2:59pm
GIS Analyst
Job Summary:FOCUS Broadband is seeking a GIS Analyst for our Outside Plant Engineering/GIS department. This position will assist in FOCUS Broadband’s communications infrastructure, including integrated customer and operations data in a fast-paced, ...
Feb 13, 2023 7:49pm
Assistant Electrical Engineer - Networks, Integration & Automation (Kansas City)
You will have the opportunity at Burns & McDonnell to build your own success story, both personally and professionally. You will be empowered to build your career with a company that supports the creation of infrastructure for the largest and most co...
Feb 10, 2023 8:51pm
Geographic Information System Technician (JN23-09DP)
The Town of Collierville is hiring a GIS (Geographic Information System) Technician to join our Development Department! If you are looking for an exciting opportunity to make a difference in your community, look no further!About The TownThe Town of C...
Feb 7, 2023 5:17pm
Programmer Analyst II - Hybrid
Applicants must apply online via www.allete.com/careers.This position may be considered for a hybrid work arrangement based on ALLETE’s needs. A Hybrid work arrangement means the employees position will be a blend of work performed both in-person a...
Feb 6, 2023 8:07pm
23-41 Groundwater Scientist (Geoscientist II-IV/Geologic Specialist II/Hydrologist II-IV)
Only candidates who apply via email to (HR “at” TWDB.texas.gov) with an official State of Texas Application or through the WorkInTexas.com website will be considered for this position. View this position and apply at https://tinyurl.com/2fraz9hm...
Jan 25, 2023 10:49pm
Senior Botanist / Wetland Ecologist / Permitting Manager
H. T. Harvey & Associates, an ecological consulting firm with four offices in Northern California and one in Hawaii, is looking for an experienced senior botanist and/or wetlands ecologist with a background in wetland delineation and experience in re...
Jan 19, 2023 5:39pm
23-40 Flood Outreach Specialist (Program Specialist II-IV)
Only candidates who apply via email to (HR “at” TWDB.texas.gov) with an official State of Texas Application or through the WorkInTexas.com website will be considered for this position. View this position and apply at https://tinyurl.com/2jtxvxsb ...
Jan 18, 2023 10:29pm
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialist
Application RequirementsNorthampton County will require all newly hired employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before beginning employment with the County. This policy applies to all new hires who receive an offer of employment on or after...
Jan 12, 2023 7:49pm
GIS Specialist (Entry-Level)
GIS Specialist (Entry-Level)Cosmos Technologies Inc. – Pittsburgh and Harrisburg, PACosmos Technologies, Inc. is seeking to fill the position of an entry-level GIS Specialist for several projects in the Pittsburgh and Harrisburg areas.Duties and Re...
Jan 10, 2023 9:20pm
Conservation Seasonal
Opportunity: The Community Forestry & Conservation department is seeking a Conservation Seasonal employee. The Conservation seasonal employee will assist in efforts to manage natural areas including pest assessments, invasive species control, and ge...
Jan 10, 2023 3:40pm
Conservation Fellow - AmeriCorps
GAIN PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE AND EXPLORE CAREERS IN NATURAL RESOURCES!MCC’s Conservation Fellow (CF) program makes a measurable difference in conservation efforts while strengthening the experience of young adults. CFs serve a five-month term of se...
Dec 20, 2022 5:42pm
23-27 Python Web Programmer (Programmer III-IV)
Only candidates who apply via email to (HR “at” TWDB.texas.gov) with an official State of Texas Application or through the WorkInTexas.com website will be considered for this position. View this position and apply at https://tinyurl.com/2qar797x...
Dec 19, 2022 8:31pm
GIS Specialist
DLZ Corporation currently has a GIS Specialist opportunity in Detroit and Waterford, MI. We are looking for a highly talented and motivated individual to provide GIS, application and programming assistance to our engineers and clients for various mu...
Dec 12, 2022 4:08pm
Distribution Field Technician 1 - FT - Marietta, Georgia
This is the first level of the field technician positions. This position may be a training slot for a Designer and/or CAD position within the organization. Desired qualifications for this incumbent include being well organized in actions and written...
Jul 12, 2022 4:11pm
GIS Developer
 Responsibilities :Writing and debugging ESRI GIS code using Python, Java or .net TechnologiesTroubleshooting ESRI GIS software issuesWorking closely with developers/Technical Lead to improve product’s functionalityContribute to all stages of soft...
Oct 17, 2022 8:56pm
Conservation Crew Member - Young Adult
POSITION: AmeriCorps Crew Member, SeasonalLOCATION(s): Eugene, OR; Lake Wenatchee, WA; Boise, ID, but camping throughout the Pacific NorthwestDATES: Various, starting in February 2023 with many positions starting in March, May, June, and Septemb...
Oct 7, 2022 4:57pm
Software Engineer
Type: Full-TimeLocation: Stennis Space Center, MSPosition Description:Radiance Technologies is an employee-owned company with benefits that are unmatched by most companies in the Gulf Coast area. Employee ownership, generous 401K and profit sharing, ...
Sep 29, 2022 3:17pm
Programmer / Analyst III
Programmer / Analyst III SALARY: $6,521 – $7,870/monthRECRUITMENT IS OPEN UNTIL FILLED OR UNTIL A SUFFICIENT NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED. Recruitment may close at any time. POSITION DESCRIPTIONThe City of Fresno is currently recrui...
Dec 31, 2021 9:34pm

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