Do you have an interest in geography or a curiosity to learn more about the science behind our world? Are you curious how applications like Apple Maps or Google Earth work? College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Geographic Information Systems (GIS) academic certificate program may be the path for you!
GIS is a framework to organize, communicate, and understand the behavior of the world around us. Rooted in the science of geography, GIS integrates and analyzes data and organizes it into visualizations using maps and 3D scenes. GIS reveals deeper insights into data, such as patterns, relationships, and situations — helping users make smarter decisions.
Through CWI’s GIS program, students will learn in-demand skills such as producing and designing web maps, creating GIS online applications, gathering and analyzing data, and writing web application scripts. The certificate is a complement to any existing major or expanding your career opportunities.
“CWI’s GIS program emphasizes core geospatial concepts, engagement with real-world applications, and the latest technologies,” said CWI Assistant Professor of Geography and GIS, Bryan Krouse. “The certificate is tailored to those looking to enter a career in GIS or those looking to advance in their career. It is focused on developing critical thinking and applied problem-solving skills including developing conceptual knowledge, technical skills, spatial thinking, and geospatial analysis.”
Some of the career paths those with GIS academic certificates can head into are in urban and regional planning, local government, environmental scientist, forestry, law enforcement, and public health.
CWI students can enroll in GIS academic certificate program for the Spring 2023 semester now through Friday, Jan. 13. For those with questions or in need of more information about CWI’s GIS program, contact Bryan Krouse at bryankrouse@cwi.edu.
