Introduction
Many environmental systems and issues involve spatial patterns that can be analyzed, visualized, and communicated through Geographic Information Science (GIS) techniques. This Advanced GIS Certificate provides students with in-depth training in GIS theory and techniques. Our students gain advanced skills in the creation, development, management, analysis, and visualization of spatial data. We teach our students how to use GIS for a wide range of environmental applications, from modeling climate change impacts to identifying inequitable patterns of exposure to pollutants to prioritizing land for renewable energy installations or conservation easements.
Many classes are offered only once per year and must be taken in sequence, so careful planning with an advisor is required. This certificate is open to all majors, but priority is given to students majoring in an Environmental Studies degree.
The Environmental Studies Department also offers a major in Environmental Studies with a concentration in GIS and a graduate Certificate in GIS. Many undergraduate students complete both the Advanced GIS Certificate and the major in Environmental Studies with a concentration in GIS. Classes may be double-counted toward this degree combination. The Advanced GIS Certificate has more rigorous requirements, including a higher minimum grade for classes counted toward the degree (a B- rather than a C-) compared to the major, and signifies a more advanced level of geospatial technical expertise.
Why Consider an Advanced Certificate in Geographic Information Science?
The certificate prepares students for careers as geospatial analysts and GIS technicians, and is a valuable complement to many majors. Do you love maps? Are you comfortable with spatial problem solving? Do you enjoy the combination of art and science that goes into cartography? Are you curious about how spatial data can be used to explain the patterns and processes behind environmental issues? If so, then the Advanced Geographic Information Science Certificate will be a great choice for you. Come join us as we work together to map our world!
Student Resources
Department website: Environmental Studies
Contact information: College of the Environment Professional Advisors, 360-650-3520, cenv@wwu.edu, Environmental Studies Building 539.
Department advising: See the Advising section of the College of the Environment website.
Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.
Career Services Center: Connect major to a career
Sample Careers: GIS Technician, GIS Analyst, GIS Manager, GIS Specialist, Mapping Specialist, Spatial Data Specialist, Geospatial Data Scientist, Geospatial Analyst, Cartographer, Geographer.
How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):
Eligibility to apply: completion or current enrollment in ENVS 320, or an equivalent introductory GIS class.
Admission to the Advanced GIS Certificate is competitive and space is limited. Preference is given to students enrolled in Environmental Studies major.
To apply, see our website for detailed instructions and deadlines. Applications will include an essay, a resume, and a professional portfolio of maps.
Non-matriculated individuals must complete the Special Student Enrollment form, found on WWU’s website by typing “special student enrollment” in the search field. Please contact the Registrar’s Office at 360-650-3432 for the particular dates of acceptance of these forms. Aside from regular tuition and course fees, there is a small additional enrollment fee associated with this certificate.
Certificate Completion
Certificates are awarded only upon the student’s submission of a Certificate Completion Application. Review application fees on the Certificate Information website.
Coursework required for completion of a certificate may not be eligible for financial aid. Contact the Financial Aid department for questions regarding certificate coursework aid eligibility.
Grade Requirements
A grade of B- or better is required for a student’s certificate courses, and supporting courses for certificates.
