Geographic Information Science ,Certificate
Data Science, GIS, GPS, Mapping, Remote Sensing, SPATIAL, statistics
Learn to use technology with geographic information science to help companies innovate and navigate the world.
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, you 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. You work in multiple GIS platforms as you build a strong foundation in spatial analysis, geovisualization, remote sensing, cartography and spatial modeling. The curriculum balances technical training with conceptual insight, helping you understand not just how to work with geographic data, but how to analyze, interpret it and communicate your findings to others.
This program prepares you 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, you learn how to collect, manage, analyze, and interpret spatial data, turning raw information into actionable insights.
- College/school:
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Location: Tempe or Online
This video provides an overview of the Geographic Information Science degree program at ASU.
2026-2027 Catalog Year
| Requirement | Minimum Grade | Credit Hours |
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| Requirement | Minimum Grade | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
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The certificate requires 20 credit hours, of which 13 credit hours must be upper division. A minimum of six upper-division credit hours must be taken from The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. When selecting courses, the college offering the course can be identified by viewing the course details in Class Search. Only courses completed with a grade of "C" (2.00 on a scale of 4.00) or better can be used to satisfy certificate requirements. |
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GIS 205 Geographic Information Science I
(QTRS)
3 Credit Hours
Minimum
Grade:C
|
C | 3 |
|
GIS 211 Geographic Information Science II
(QTRS)
4 Credit Hours
Minimum
Grade:C
|
C | 4 |
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GIS 311 Geographic Information Science III
(QTRS)
4 Credit Hours
Minimum
Grade:C
|
C | 4 |
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6 Credit Hours
Minimum
Grade:C
|
C | 6 |
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3 Credit Hours
Minimum
Grade:C
|
C | 3 |
|
Prerequisite courses may be needed in order to complete the requirements of this certificate.
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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.
ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program’s ASU Online page for program descriptions and to request more information.
Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program’s learning outcomes include the following:
- Solve a geographic problem in spatial analysis.
- Solve a geographic problem in spatial sampling.
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
School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning
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COOR 5681
SGSUP.advising@asu.edu
480-965-7533
Program term definitions
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
