The Associate of Science (A.S.) degree in Geographic Information Science (GIS) program teaches students the theory and applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). GIS is used to capture, manage, analyze, and display spatial information. For example, GIS is used to find out the direction and location for traveling, such as Google Map, Google Earth, and global positioning system (GPS).
Careers
The program will prepare you for entry-level positions in the GIS field. Many businesses, local governments, and scientific organizations currently utilize GIS to enhance their productivity and increase their ability to compete in the marketplace.
Some job titles in GIS are GIS Technician, GIS Developer, GIS System Engineer, GIS Map Drafter, GIS Specialist and GIS Programmer
Transfer Options
The curriculum also facilitates transfer to a senior college, such as Hunter College, with 60 credits towards the Bachelors of Arts (B.A.) degree in Geography with a concentration in GIS. The program offers internship opportunities in a variety of sectors utilizing GIS and prepares them for the careers
Academic Program Maps
- Geographic Information Science Program 2 Year Plan (2018-2019)
- Geographic Information Science Program 3 Year Plan (2018-2019)
Required Common Core
| English Composition | 6 |
| Mathematical and Quantitative Reasoning1 | 3 |
| Life and Physical Sciences2 | 3 |
| TOTAL REQUIRED COMMON CORE | 12 |
Flexible Core3
| Creative Expression | 6 |
| Individual and Society | 3 |
| Scientific World4 | 3 |
| U.S. Experience in Its Diversity | 3 |
| World Cultures and Global Issues | 3 |
| TOTAL FLEXIBLE COMMON CORE | 18 |
| TOTAL COMMON CORE | 30 |
Program Curriculum
- This course introduces the design, implementation, testing, and manipulation of database management systems. The design techniques include conceptual data modeling, entity relational modeling and normalization techniques. The databases are then implemented using structured query languages. Testing strategies verify data integrity, security, and privacy. Manipulation activities include insert, update, and delete operations.
Prerequisite: CSC 110 or department approval.
Course Syllabus - This course introduces students to environmental studies with a focus on policy and management of resources. The course will examine issues pertaining to sustaining our resource base (biodiversity, food, soil, water, and energy) and how humans have impacted these key elements of the natural system. The goals of the course are to introduce students to the trends in human impact and management of the natural environment and provide a background to debates on sustainability and conservation.
Prerequisite: GEO 100
Course Syllabus - This course introduces the means by which geographers analyze the world to better understand geography and geographical processes. It teaches the students various methods for interpreting and analyzing spatial data including cartography, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, spatial statistics and survey research.
- This course focuses on the basic principles and operation of geographic information systems (GIS). Students will study how to use computerized systems for the capture, storage, management, analysis and display of geographically referenced data and their attributes. Professional GIS software packages will be used in lab exercises to provide students with hands-on experience. Prerequisite: GIS 201 or departmental approval
- This is an advanced course on Geographic Information Science that builds upon the concepts covered in GIS 261. It starts with review of the principles and operation of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Then, it discusses the topics including geoprocessing, 3-D GIS, geostatistics, map design, map label, and map annotation. Laboratory exercises provide hands-on experience with professional GIS software. The basic programming concepts and skills in GIS application are covered. Students implement a major GIS project for a real world geography issue, which includes processes of system requirement, design, architecture, implementation, and installation. Prerequisite: [GIS 261 and CIS 395 and CSC 110] or departmental approval
- This course covers statistical concepts and techniques with applications. Topics include probability, random variables, the binomial distribution, the hyper-geometric distribution, measures of central tendency, the normal distribution, precision and confidence intervals, sample design and computer projects.
Prerequisite: MAT 206 or MAT 206.5
Course Syllabus - This course analyzes the relationships between economic and social factors, and the delivery of health care services in urban communities. Attention is given to community needs related to HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, mortality rates, prevention, and education. Guest lecturers and workshops are presented. Prerequisite: SOC 100 or ANT 100
Note:
1. Students are required to take MAT 206.
2. Students are required to take GLY 210.
3. No more than two courses in any discipline or interdisciplinary field can be used to satisfy Flexible Core requirements.
4. Students are required to take CSC 110.
5. These credits can be satisfied by taking STEM variants in the Common Core.
