Program Description The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) graduate certificate program at Algonquin College is a full three semester advanced program of study that trains students on all aspects of GIS science and technology. The focus is on a broad spectrum of skills through hands-on training and practical in-class learning. The program features geographic and cartographic science, as well as a strong emphasis on information systems technology, preparing students for a broad range of opportunities within municipal, provincial, federal or NGO agencies; utility/resource companies; engineering and environmental firms and the many other disciplines using GIS. Training includes field data collection, programming, remote sensing, enterprise geodatabase design and management, cloud-based services and application management, dynamic 2D and 3D cartographic design, spatial analysis and project management. A significant component of the program is each student`s engagement with an industry or government sponsor on a project.
Level 01 introduces various software streams including GIS, database management and programming and provides the theoretical foundation for the following semesters. The following levels focus on spatial analysis, data presentation, interface customization and project management. Level 03 includes web GIS and an independent GIS project course. While students spend most of their time working on the computer using application software, editing data, or programming, some coursework explores design issues, spatial statistics and project planning. There is a modelling emphasis throughout all courses.
This program offers one cooperative education (Co-op) Work Term(s) option. Qualified students with a minimum GPA of 2.7, have the opportunity to apply for paid co-op employment to gain valuable work experience and networks within industry.
