UVM is a leader in the use of geospatial technologies and research, ranging from creating new information data sets to applied research in support of decision making. Our courses emphasize a deep understanding of core concepts and an engagement with real world applications and the latest technologies.

This Certificate program covers Geographical Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, geospatial computation and data communication and uses the current version of ESRI’s ArcGIS Pro software. Both for those new to the industry or those looking to advance in their career, the program is focused on developing critical thinking and applied problem-solving skills including developing conceptual knowledge, technical skills and applied uses of geospatial analysis.

Are you looking to enter the growing fields of GIS and geospatial analysis? Already working in GIS but looking to expand your skillset?

There is increasing demand by employers for professionals in Geospatial Analysis (GIS, ArcGIS, remote sensing, computing, communication), including spatial analyses, health informatics, and locational intelligence. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics identifies GIS as a field with a “bright outlook” for future career opportunities and projects high growth. Skills in ESRI’s ArcGIS Pro software are highly sought in GIS job postings.

What is GIS and geospatial analysis?

Today, satellites permit images of the Earth’s surface and human activities. Computers store massive amounts of data coupled with rapid development of associated digital software, maps, and data sets on socioeconomic and environmental phenomena. Analyzing these Big Data sets requires skills in geospatial concepts, problem solving, data management, software technology, computation, and communication. Multiple approaches, including GIS, remote sensing, computing and data visualization, are needed to address real world problems.

GIS users with ESRI’s ArcGIS Pro assemble a range of geospatial data into layered maps that allow complex themes to be analyzed and then communicated to wider audiences. The fields and sectors deploying these technologies are currently growing at a rapid pace, informing decision-makers on topics such as industrial engineering, biodiversity conservation, forest fire suppression, agricultural monitoring, humanitarian relief, and much more. GIS is enhanced by the derivation of information from remote sensing, such as digital images of the earth used to map roads or deforestation. Advanced GIS and remote sensing require use of customized workflows and models, achieved with geospatial computation in Python and R computer languages. Communication of results, such maps and data, is both an art and a science that is increasingly utilized in reports, news, websites and social media.

The Program

This 4 course, non-credit, fully online Geographic Information Systems and Data Communication Professional Certificate serves professionals with different academic backgrounds and a variety of disciplines. Students enrolling will build skills to gain a promotion, or in some cases, a career change. The program emphasizes knowledge of concepts and theory for critical problem-solving.

While the program focuses on a handful of software tools, the introductory course will help students adapt to new or preferred software. Students will also increase their understanding of data collecting in the field with GPS and apps, problem solving with spatial analysis in ArcGIS, map-making through cartography and data visualization, and environmental modeling.

Skills relevant to employers provided by this certificate include:

  • Geographical Information Systems (GIS using ArcGIS Pro)
  • GPS technology
  • map-making, data visualization and communication
  • database management
  • remote sensing
  • web mapping
  • workflow programming with code (e.g., Python, R, R-Bridge with ArcGIS)

Affordable, flexible, and conveniently offered fully online, UVM’s Professional GIS Certificate program is taught by industry professionals who have a wide range of applied experience in the course material, including work with research enterprises, software companies, consulting firms, and NGOs.

By the end of this program, you will have gained the skills to:

  • Understand important conceptual underpinnings of GIS and their practical applications using ArcGIS Pro.
  • Harness remote sensing as a tool for environmental or landscape problem-solving
  • Analyze data to reveal patterns and relationships to better inform decision-makers
  • Create impactful maps and visualizations of large and complex datasets that encourage comparison and visual analysis by the viewer
  • Go beyond “off the shelf” buttons towards the ability to customize workflows, scripts, or models in Python and R

Job opportunities related to this certificate include:

  • Field technician
  • Forester
  • Data scientist
  • Health care data analyst
  • Software developer
  • Business analyst
  • Consultant
  • GIS specialist
  • Intelligence analyst
  • Environmental scientist
  • Image analyst
  • Geospatial developer
  • Geologist
  • Urban planner
  • Cartographer
  • Remote sensing or UAS scientist

From Numbers to Narrative Workshop