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Foundations of Geographic Information Systems

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

Unlock the power of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with this hands-on course designed for beginners and professionals looking to build essential mapping and spatial analysis skills.

Students will explore core GIS concepts, data types (vector, raster, and tabular), and geospatial analysis techniques while gaining practical experience with ArcGIS tools. This course provides the foundational knowledge needed for entry-level GIS tasks, from creating and sharing maps to performing data visualization and spatial analysis.

By the end of the program, students will be prepared to take the GIS Fundamentals Foundation 2024 Technical Certificate Exam and confidently apply GIS principles in various industries. Coursework will also culminate in a portfolio.

PROGRAM COST AND SCHEDULE

$190 to register. Registration does not include ESRI test vouchers.

Fundamentals of GIS is a 20-week course and is offered as a HyFlex course that meets two evenings a week. Course content includes 170 hours of comprehensive GIS training. Students can expect about 2.5 hours of asynchronous online work each week.

What is HyFlex?

HyFlex classes are on-campus classes that are simultaneously streamed via virtual meetings. Students can opt-in to attend class in person or tune in online. All classes meet synchronously.


Does that mean I can complete this class completely online?

Yes! We recommend having an at-home device with the following specs:

  • Processor: Intel i5, i7, i9, or AMD Ryzen 5, 7 (quad-core or higher)
  • GPU: Integrated graphics (Intel UHD, AMD Radeon) may work for light tasks but are not ideal.
  • Ram memory: 8 GB
  • Storage: SSD with at least 50GB free space
  • OS: ArcGIS Pro is most compatible with Windows 10 or 11

Search & Register for Upcoming Courses

If you are 16 or 17, you must complete a minor permission form with your registration. Email completed forms to smcleod@cfcc.edu .

Job Outlook

According to bls.gov , the overall employment of surveying and mapping technicians is projected to grow 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than average for all occupations.

About 7,600 openings for surveying and mapping technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from replacing workers who transfer to different occupations or exiting the labor force, such as retiring.

The mean hourly wage of Surveying and Mapping Technicians, as of May 2021, is $23.53.

Earn Credit Towards Your Degree

Fundamentals of GIS is approved for transfer into CFCC’s Geomatics Technology Associates Degree .

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