Data visualization allows us to present information in a clear, concise, and visually appealing manner. It helps us identify patterns, trends, and relationships within a dataset that may not be easily visible when looking at raw numbers or text.

GIS Certificate Course:

Data Visualization and Communication

Transform Data Into Compelling Visuals

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of advanced data visualization and communication, and prepares students to create compelling and effective data visualizations while balancing the nuanced factors influencing the successful application of these practices. This course is offered as both a stand-alone course for professional development, as well as within UVM’s GIS and Data Communication Certificate program.

 

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Transform your data into compelling visuals to make informed decisions through UVM’s Data Visualization and Communication course. In today’s data-driven world, visualizing and communicating complex data has become an essential skill for professionals across industries. This course will equip you with the knowledge and techniques necessary to effectively visualize and communicate data.


Illustration with large graphs and charts and illustrated people. Transform your data into compelling visuals to make informed decisions through UVM's Data Visualization and Communication course.

Why Data Visualization is Important for Communications

Data visualization allows us to present information in a clear, concise, and visually appealing manner. It helps us identify patterns, trends, and relationships within a dataset that may not be easily visible when looking at raw numbers or text. By presenting data visually, we can quickly understand complex information and make more informed decisions based on the insights gained.

Visualizations such as charts, graphs, or maps can help make data easier to understand, leading to better decisions. Data-driven decisions could mean the difference between the success or failure of any organization. There are many tools for visualizing data, but without a solid grasp on the fundamentals of graphic design and perceptual theory, visualizations may not convey the intended message.

Transforming GIS Data into Visuals for Storytelling

In addition to aiding decision-making, data visualization also helps in storytelling. By combining visuals with narrative elements, we can effectively convey a message or tell a story that resonates with our audience. This is especially important in the field of GIS, where data can be complex and overwhelming. With proper visualization techniques, we can make our data more accessible and engaging for a wider audience. The course uses the most current versions of the Google Suite and ESRI’s ArcGIS Pro software.

Group of professionals working around a table with laptop and sticky notes. UVM's Data Visualization and Communications course is designed for professionals across various fields, ranging from technical GIS industries to broader industries and professional disciplines.

Who Should Enroll?

Designed for professionals across various fields, ranging from technical GIS industries to broader industries and professional disciplines. This course is ideal for anyone looking to advance their data visualization skills and make the most out of GIS technology. Whether you’re a GIS analyst, environmental scientist, business analyst, or marketing professional, this course will provide you with the tools to effectively communicate and present your data.

GIS & Environmental Professionals:
  • GIS Specialist & Geospatial Developer
  • Cartographer & Geographer
  • Environmental Scientist & Consultants
  • Remote Sensing Specialist
Business Professionals:
  • Data Analysts & Data Scientists
  • Business Analysts & Intelligence Architects
  • Public Healthcare Analysts
  • Financial Analysts & Portfolio Managers
  • Scrum Masters & Agile Team Leaders
  • Software Developers & IT Designers
  • Graphic Designers & Creative Teams
  • Marketing & Communications Professionals
Graphic designer working at a desk with computer and design tablet. UVM's Data Visualization and Communications course is designed for professionals across various fields, ranging from technical GIS industries to broader industries and professional disciplines.

Build Your Skillset!

  • Enhanced Communication Skills: Apply a framework to ensure your message reaches the right audience at the right time.
  • Problem-Solving Techniques: Identify and solve challenges in data communication.
  • Design & Perception Understanding: Learn to apply human visual perception principles to your designs.
  • Create Effective Visuals: Use size, color, and other visual variables to convey complex information.
  • Comprehensive Data Storytelling: Produce complete data stories for impactful presentations.
  • Specialized Learning: Recognize and apply different visuals based on their purpose.

Course Specs:

Data Visualization & Communications

Course Price

$1,600

Application Deadline

January 6, 2025

Start Date

January 13, 2025

End Date

March 14, 2025

Asynchronous Schedule

100% Online. On your own schedule!

Weekly Commitment

10-12 Hours

Meet the Instructor

Simran Parwani headshot

Simran Parwani is a distinguished data visualization designer and developer with a wealth of experience from her roles at Axios, FiveThirtyEight, the U.S. Census Bureau, and NBCUniversal. She holds a B.A. in Interactive Media and Computer Science from New York University Abu Dhabi and has served on the Board of Directors for the Data Visualization Society. When she’s not creating insightful visualizations, Simran enjoys community-building, reading fantasy novels, and exploring the outdoors with an iced latte in hand.


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Looking for More GIS Experience?

UVM’s Professional GIS & Data Communications Certificate Offers Comprehensive GIS Expertise

This 4-course, non-credit GIS & Data Communication Certificate is designed to help you succeed in the growing fields of GIS, geospatial analysis, remote sensing, geospatial computation, and data communication. Turn big data into useful information that helps solve real-world problems!

GIS Certificate Curriculum: Combine four courses together for a customized certificate!

  • Introduction to GIS
  • Advanced GIS
  • Data Visualization and Communication
  • Remote Sensing Foundations
  • Geospatial Computation
  • Independent Study

UVM’s GIS & Data Communication Certificate is designed to help you succeed in the growing field of GIS and geospatial analysis. No prior GIS experience or background in coding or computer programming is required.

Learn More about UVM’s GIS & Data Communication Certificate.

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