The Geography program at Morehead State University offers a Certificate in Geographic Information Science that will certify competence in the ability to understand, implement and utilize basic skills regarding geographic information science. As a program member of the Association of American Geographers (AAG) and as an accredited institution of higher education, the Department of Geography, Government and History at Morehead State University (MSU) provides this Certificate in Geographic Information Science to individuals who have successfully completed the following five course requirements (15 total credit hours):

GEO 201—Map Interpretation and Analysis
GEO 349––Introduction to GIS/Cartography
GEO 351––Geographic Information Systems
GEO 353––GIS Applications
GEO 355––Remote Sensing of the Environment

To receive the Certificate in Geographic Information Science an individual must successfully complete each of the listed required courses with a grade of C or better.

This certificate program will be open to all students enrolled at MSU and, upon completion, will certify that the student has completed the required academic course work, which by the nature of the discipline would indicate a working knowledge of the necessary technical abilities to be employed in positions requiring them. This certificate program provides a means to recognize the acquisition of skills and abilities that are currently established, accepted and in demand in the marketplace.

Course Descriptions

GEO 201. Map Interpretation and Analysis:
An introduction to the basic concepts of spatial analysis and applications of analytical techniques to geographically referenced information. Discussion will center on types of spatial data, data collection, presentation, and basic techniques for analyzing and mapping spatial distributions.

GEO 349. Introduction to GIS/Cartography:
History of map-making; properties and qualities of maps; characteristics of map projections; construction of basic projections; basic techniques of mapping spatial data.

GEO 351. Geographic Information Systems:
This course addresses selected layers of spatial data for the base and body of maps, and includes field mapping techniques and digital map development and reproduction.

GEO 353. GIS Applications:
This course will familiarize students with the different types of projects and questions that Geographic Information Systems can be used to address. Students will gain an understanding of different techniques through real-world examples and hands-on practice.

GEO 355. Remote Sensing of Environment:
Introduction to principles, techniques, and applications of remotely sensed data. Provides training needed to map and monitor the environment through digital image processing of satellite data and air photos. The course will develop abilities for inventory, mapping, and monitoring of land use, vegetation, and other geographic features.