Geographic Information Science, Certificate

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  3. Geographic Information Science, Certificate (Stand-Alone Certificate)

Learn to use technology with geographic information science to help companies innovate and navigate the world.

Program Description

Geographic information scientists do more than create maps; they uncover patterns, relationships and insights that help us better understand the world and how people interact within it. By combining elements of computer science, statistics and geography, GIS professionals are equipped to answer complex questions about what is happening, where it's occurring, why it matters, and how to respond.

The certificate program in geographic information science combines geospatial tools, spatial reasoning and practical analysis to solve real-world problems. Students work in multiple GIS platforms as they build a strong foundation in spatial analysis, geovisualization, remote sensing, cartography and spatial modeling. The curriculum balances technical training with conceptual insight, helping students understand not just how to work with geographic data, but how to analyze, interpret it and communicate their findings to others.

This program prepares students to apply GIS tools and spatial reasoning to pressing challenges such as climate change, population dynamics, public health, and sustainable urban development. Through applied coursework and class projects, students learn how to collect, manage, analyze, and interpret spatial data, turning raw information into actionable insights.




At a Glance: program details

Certificate Map

  • Location:
    Tempe campus,
    or
    online
  • Additional Program Fee: No
  • Second Language Requirement: No

Program Requirements

Enrollment Requirements

ASU degree-seeking students
The BS program in geographic information science is incompatible with this certificate program.

Nondegree-seeking students
This certificate is available through the Pathways for the Future program. Applicants without a bachelor's degree are eligible to apply for, and receive, this certificate through the Pathways for the Futures program. Applicants who already hold a bachelor's degree should apply to ASU and this certificate program as a nondegree-seeking graduate student.


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Career Outlook

Geographic information science is one of the fastest-growing segments of the economy, and employment possibilities can be found across the private sector and in many government agencies at the local, state and national levels.

Graduates who have paired this geographic information science certificate with their degree program have added knowledge, skills and abilities in these highly desirable areas:

  • analysis
  • computer programming
  • problem-solving
  • statistics

Designed to complement any undergraduate major, the certificate program supports graduates pursuing work fields such as:

  • business
  • computer science
  • environmental science
  • health care
  • nonprofit organizations
  • real estate
  • retail
  • transportation
  • urban planning
  • utilities
  • visual arts

Example Careers

Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions.

Cartographers and Photogrammetrists

  • Growth: 6.4%
  • Median Salary*: 78380
  Bright Outlook

Environmental Restoration Planners

  • Growth: 4.4%
  • Median Salary*: 80060

Geographers

  • Growth: -3.1%
  • Median Salary*: 97200

Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians

  • Growth: 8.2%
  • Median Salary*: 108970
  Bright Outlook

Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers

  • Growth: 3.2%
  • Median Salary*: 99240

Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists

  • Growth: 0.6%
  • Median Salary*: 117960

Traffic Technicians

  • Growth: 3.7%
  • Median Salary*: 58480

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Bright OutlookBright Outlook | Green Occupation Green Occupation

Attend Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program description and request more information.

Learn about online options

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

  • [email protected]
  • 480/965-7533


Concurrent degree programs are specially designed academic programs which provide high-achieving undergraduate students the opportunity to complete two distinct but complementary bachelor degrees at the same time. Students must meet minimum admissions standards for both programs and be accepted individually by both colleges offering the concurrent program.
Students pursuing concurrent degrees earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. ASU offers students two ways to earn concurrent degrees: by choosing a predetermined combination or creating their own combination. Predetermined combinations have a single admissions application and one easy to follow major map. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor. Either way, concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests.
Accelerated bachelor's and master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving undergraduate students who want the opportunity to combine undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.
ASU students may accelerate their studies by earning a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in as little as five years (for some programs) or by earning a bachelor’s degree in 2.5 or 3 years.

Accelerated bachelor's and master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving undergraduate students who want the opportunity to combine undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master’s degree. These programs, featuring the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty, allow students to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years.

Accelerated bachelor’s degree programs allow students to choose either a 2.5- or a 3-year path while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students can opt to fast-track their studies after acceptance into a participating program by connecting with their academic advisor.
This is only the first required math course. This program may contain additional math courses; See Major Map for details.
The level of intensity represents a measure of the number and academic rigor of math courses required.
The level of intensity represents a measure of the number and academic rigor of math courses required. Courses included in the General level: MAT 142
The level of intensity represents a measure of the number and academic rigor of math courses required. Courses included in the Moderate level: MAT 117, MAT 119, MAT 170, MAT 210, SOS 101, CPI 200
The level of intensity represents a measure of the number and academic rigor of math courses required. Courses included in the Substantial level: MAT 251, MAT 265. MAT 266, MAT 267, MAT 270, MAT 271, MAT 272, MAT 274, MAT 275
To add a minor, please consult with the academic advisor for your major.
To add a certificate, please consult with the academic advisor for your major.
A rolling deadline means that applications will continue to be reviewed on a regular basis until the semester begins. International students should be mindful of visa deadlines to ensure there is time to produce necessary visa documents. Applicants are encouraged to complete and submit application materials as soon as possible for consideration.
A final deadline means that all applications and application materials must be received by Graduate Admissions by the deadline date. Applications that are incomplete may not be considered after the final deadline. Applications that are submitted past the final deadline may not be considered.
A priority deadline means that applications submitted and completed before the priority deadline will receive priority consideration. Applications submitted after the priority deadlines will be reviewed in the order in which they were completed and on a space available basis. An application is complete after all materials are received by Graduate Admissions.
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