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Geospatial Technology Certificate

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Turn Data Into Decisions

Eastern’s Geospatial Technology Certificate prepares students to use geographic information systems, spatial data and mapping technologies to solve real-world problems. Through hands-on, project-based coursework, students learn to analyze and visualize spatial information that can support decision-making in fields such as environmental science, urban planning, public health, transportation, emergency management, natural resource management, government and business.

The 14-credit certificate is designed for current Eastern students who want to add a career-focused credential to their degree, as well as working professionals and community members seeking new skills in a growing technology field.

Why Study Geospatial Technology?

Geospatial technology helps people understand where things happen — and why that matters. From mapping public health trends and transportation systems to analyzing land use, climate impacts, infrastructure and natural resources, GIS skills are increasingly valuable across many industries.

Students in this certificate program gain practical experience with mapping, spatial analysis, data interpretation, computer-aided drafting and remote sensing. They also build a portfolio of project-based work that demonstrates their ability to apply geospatial tools to real-world challenges.

Curriculum

The Geospatial Technology Certificate requires 14 credits:

  • EES 300: Introduction to Geographic Information Systems - 3 credits
  • EES 301: Introduction to Geographic Information Systems Laboratory - 1 credit
  • EES 342: Advanced Geographic Information Systems - 4 credits
  • EES 444: Geospatial Applications Using Remote Sensing - 3 credits
  • EES 208: Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting - 3 credits

Students complete capstone projects in advanced GIS and remote sensing courses, giving them the opportunity to integrate technical skills, conduct independent research, analyze geospatial data and communicate their findings.

Who Should Enroll?

This certificate is a strong fit for students interested in environmental science, data science, geography, sustainability, public health, business, urban planning, transportation, government, emergency management or technology-related careers.

It is also designed for working professionals who want to strengthen their skills in GIS, mapping, data visualization or spatial analysis to advance in their current field or prepare for new opportunities.

What You’ll Learn

Through the Geospatial Technology Certificate, students will learn to:

  • Analyze and visualize spatial data using geographic information systems
  • Interpret maps, imagery and geospatial datasets
  • Apply GIS tools to real-world problems across multiple fields
  • Use emerging technologies and software in geospatial analysis
  • Prepare written, visual and oral project documentation
  • Develop portfolio-ready work through hands-on projects and capstone experiences

Program Highlights

  • 14-credit certificate
  • Hands-on, project-based learning
  • On-campus, online and hybrid course options
  • Portfolio-building assignments
  • Capstone projects in advanced GIS and remote sensing
  • Open to current Eastern students and non-degree students
  • Housed in the Department of Environmental Earth Science

Career Connections

Geospatial technology skills are used in a wide range of professions, including surveying and mapping, environmental analysis, planning, drafting, engineering technology, transportation, utilities, healthcare, government and business services.

Graduates may pursue or strengthen pathways in areas such as:

  • GIS technician
  • Surveying and mapping technician
  • Environmental technician
  • Planning or land-use support
  • Transportation or logistics mapping
  • Public health mapping
  • Natural resource management
  • Computer-aided drafting
  • Geospatial data analysis

Admissions

Current Eastern students enrolled in bachelor’s degree programs do not need to meet additional admissions requirements to pursue the certificate.

Students who are interested in completing only the certificate program must hold a high school diploma, as the required courses are offered at the undergraduate level.

Prepare for a Growing Field

As technology continues to shape how organizations collect, interpret and use location-based information, GIS skills are becoming increasingly important across disciplines. Eastern’s Geospatial Technology Certificate gives students the tools to turn spatial data into insight — and insight into action.

Learn More

For more information about the Geospatial Technology Certificate, contact Meredith Metcalf (metcalfm@easternct.edu), Professor, Environmental Earth Science