Those interested in learning more about Boise State University’s Environmental and Urban Studies program can learn from four visiting professors on Thursday, April 4.
Read more about Interested in Environmental and Urban Studies? Explore Boise State Transfer Opportunities at Panel EventGeographic Information Systems
A Gateway to Exciting Career Opportunities with Hands-On GIS Training
Program Overview
Interested in the innovative field of Geographic Information Systems (GIS)? College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) GIS Academic Certificate program is dynamic and interactive with classes designed to provide you with fundamental skills, knowledge, and experience necessary for entry into the GIS field. GIS, a rapidly growing industry, uses computer software to manage, manipulate, analyze, and display geospatial data, revealing geographic patterns and trends not apparent with traditional maps or databases.
This GIS program is ideal for both students and working professionals, emphasizing critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving. You will engage in both independent and collaborative projects, gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard GIS software. Whether you are complementing your existing major or expanding your career opportunities, this certificate prepares you for diverse roles in business, healthcare, public health, natural resources, emergency management, logistics, and more.
Degree or Certificate Type
Academic Certificate
Cost
Additional cost may apply.
Time to Complete
1 year
CWI Geographic Information Systems
Learning Opportunities
- Hands-On GIS Training: Master industry-standard software and apply theory in real-world scenarios.
- Diverse Career Pathways: Learn skills applicable in business, marketing, healthcare, natural resources, and emergency management. Start your pathway to becoming a Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP).
- Internship Opportunities: Partner with local government and private companies for internships, building a professional network and portfolio.
- Project-Based Learning: Develop spatial thinking, critical thinking, and project management skills through interactive GIS projects.
- Cost-Effective & In-Demand: Benefit from the affordable and high demand for GIS professionals, with a growing market in various sectors.
Areas of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Geographic Information Systems – Academic Certificate
Certificate Requirements
Cost: $3,184
Career Opportunities
Postsecondary Teachers
1063
Annual Openings*
$35.10
Hourly Median Wage*
$73,008
Annual Median Salary
18.28%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Managers, All Other
All managers not listed separately.
346
Annual Openings*
$30.48
Hourly Median Wage*
$63,398
Annual Median Salary
18.26%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Surveying and Mapping Technicians
Perform surveying and mapping duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, cartographer, or photogrammetrist, to obtain data used for construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.
24
Annual Openings*
$23.59
Hourly Median Wage*
$49,067
Annual Median Salary
10.94%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
Research, study, and prepare maps and other spatial data in digital or graphic form for one or more purposes, such as legal, social, political, educational, and design purposes. May work with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). May design and evaluate algorithms, data structures, and user interfaces for GIS and mapping systems. May collect, analyze, and interpret geographic information provided by geodetic surveys, aerial photographs, and satellite data.
14
Annual Openings*
$28.11
Hourly Median Wage*
$58,469
Annual Median Salary
6.04%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™, a labor market analytics tool, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Geographic Information Systems as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Transfer Information
Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.
Related Programs
News
Faculty from Boise State’s Environmental and Urban Studies Program will be on campus to discuss transfer opportunities, make connections, and help students explore career paths.
Read more about Environmental and Urban Studies Transfer Opportunities
Are you curious about the science behind Apple Maps or Google Earth? If so, you may be interested in College of Western Idaho’s Geographic Information Systems (GIS) academic certificate program...
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Geographic Information Systems student, Daleesa Cole, hopes to use her skills and abilities to change the world for the better as a Wildlife Biologist.
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Bryan Krouse has been named the September 2017 Faculty of the Month. Krouse grew up in Santa Barbara, California, and received a bachelor’s degree in Geography from University of California, Santa...
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Kelsey Wilber, who will graduate on May 13, 2017, came to CWI in 2014 to pursue her education after feeling “intellectually unsatisfied” and desiring a means to find her true potential.
Read more about Connection, Involvement, and Opportunity
The CWI Board of Trustees reviewed and approved a proposed zone map to comply with a new state law, House Bill 512.
Read more about Trustees Approve Proposed Zone Map
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Board of Trustees reviewed options to comply with a new state law.
Read more about CWI Seeks Public Comment on New Proposed Trustee Zone
A Geographic Information System is an application of computer hardware and software that allows users to capture, analyze and display geospatial data. If you have used MapQuest or Google Earth on...
Read more about Geographic Systems Offer Promising Choice of CareersRequest More Information
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