The mission of the Geographic Information System program is to educate students in the principles and practices of computing with focus on geospatial knowledge and applications. Our program prepares students for graduate school and careers in geospatial or IT related fields.
Program Educational Objectives
- 1.To prepare GIS graduates to effectively use their geospatial knowledge as a research tool, a decision-making tool, data analysis tool, and/or as a planning tool in large varieties of disciplines;
- 2.To prepare GIS graduates for professional careers in GIS and remote sensing in roles including, but not limited to: application development, data production and data analysis;
- 3.To equip GIS graduates with the knowledge and skills to conduct advanced studies and research in remote sensing, environmental studies, geomatics and related disciplines;
- 4.To prepare GIS graduates with the communication and interpersonal skills to function and communicate effectively individually and within multidisciplinary teams;
- 5.To prepare graduates to identify and analyze legal, ethical and social concerns associated with the GIS fields.
Program Learning Outcomes
All graduating GIS majors shall:
- 1.Demonstrate a good practical background in computing, mathematics and statistics with a focus on geospatial knowledge and applications;
- 2.Demonstrate strong knowledge of the fundamental theories and concepts upon which the GIS technology is built;
- 3.Demonstrate problematic solving skills through spatial thinking and analysis.
- 4.Produce cartographic maps;
- 5.Demonstrate proficiency in remote sensing and show competence in performing related analysis;
- 6.Demonstrate programming competence using modern programming languages
- 7.Demonstrate good knowledge of computer networking concepts and show a good practical experience in the usage of technology within the GIS environment;
- 8.Demonstrate proficiency in database management system and show experience creating geographic databases;
- 9.Design and implement a substantial GIS project;
- 10.Recognize the need for, and demonstrate an ability to engage in, continuing professional development;
- 11.Demonstrate their ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences and to function effectively on multidisciplinary teams to accomplish a common goal;
- 12.Demonstrate their understanding of professional, ethical, legal and social issues and responsibilities;
- 13.Demonstrate their ability to engage in a graduate program in remote sensing, environmental studies, geomatics and related disciplines.
Graduation Requirements
To receive the degree of B.S. from the FNAS, a student must fulfill all requirements of the degree program, complete all required courses with a cumulative overall GPA of at least 2.0/4.0 and a minimum GPA of 2.0/4.0 in both the core and major requirements, and clear all accounts with the University. Candidates for degrees are reminded that grades of “I” assigned during the last semester to courses required for graduation will result in delaying their graduation.