Geographic Information Science Graduate Certificate
Map your place in the world.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) works with one of the world’s most valuable resources: data. Whether you’re seeking to expand your background in GIS or are completely new to the field, GIS is a relevant science that touches practically everything in our world. Hundreds of thousands of organizations in virtually every field — education, public health, natural resources, manufacturing, public safety, sustainability — use GIS to create, manage, and analyze maps. GIS connects people, locations, and data to improve communication, visualize and share information, collaborate, and solve complex problems worldwide. It makes the world better. And that world will never be the same because of you.
Learn how to apply GIS software, principles, and technologies:
- •SQL
- •Python
- •GPS
- •Cartographic design
- •Data integrity and usability
- •Workflow design strategies
- •Spatial and tabular data
- •Geodatabase design and development
After successfully completing Saint Mary’s GIS certificate program, you’ll be better prepared with the skills and professional know-how to pursue certification requirements from the GIS Certification Institute, the internationally-recognized certification program leading to GISP® (Certified GIS Professional) recognition.
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Program Highlights
The GIS program provides a unique perspective of technology and data visualization, leading to better insight and decision-making. In 12 months, you’ll gain skills to pursue professional certification from the GIS Certification Institute. Plus, get experience with GeoSpatial Services (GSS) and share your achievements on LinkedIn and digital media.
Program Features
What Makes it Special
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Complete this program in as little as one year -
Software provided
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Leveraged credentials for the GISP endorsement
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Optional paid applied learning experiences through GeoSpatial Services
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Apply credits toward our M.S. in Data Intelligence and GeoAnalytics program
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Digital badges offered
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Robust alumni network and professional social networking connections
What You'll Learn
What You'll Learn
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Analyze geospatial data
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Demonstrate proficiency in data collection and database administration
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Develop custom workflows and scripts for visualization and analytics
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Engage in complex critical thinking
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Best practices of integrated technology
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Ethical implications of data handling and decision-making
Hands-On Experience with GeoSpatial Services
The GIS program offers an optional paid experience with GeoSpatial Services (GSS). This unique on-campus project center at Saint Mary’s is nationally recognized with clients such as the Biden administration, British Petroleum, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the National Park Service. GSS currently has 35 full time professional staff and employs over 40 students. More than 500 Saint Mary’s students have worked with GSS over the past 15 years, conducting mapping and spatial analysis for projects from Alaska to the deserts of New Mexico. This is your opportunity to work alongside GIS professionals and partners on real-world projects to learn program development, data design and application, and data visualization.
Share Your Success
Share your achievements with your professional network and social connections using our digital badging. The badges for the GIS graduate-level certificate showcase your accomplishments for completing courses in this program, and the value of your relevant skills and professional knowledge.
Career Outlook
Around the world, everyone from farmers and business owners to government agencies and health professionals depends on spatial data and GIS technology. GIS analysts earned a median annual wage of $83,680 in 2020. The top 10% in the field earned more than $172,490 in the same year.1
1. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Geoscientists at
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/geoscientists.htm (Visited May 2, 2022)