GIS Certification El Dorado AR

GIS Certification: Integrating the Old and New
by Jonathon Donald

Maps and surveys have long been a way for mankind to understand the world. In more recent times, information systems have merged these forms to create a new way of understanding our surroundings: geographic information systems (GIS).

Getting your certification in geographic information systems can create a world of opportunity for you. GIS specialists are in increasing demand in many fields, especially business, marketing, and government.

Geographic Information in the Modern World

Businesses and governments have a great need for data in spatial form. Local governments need to understand demographic data geographically in order to plan public projects. This includes the construction of hospitals, homeless shelters, police stations, transportation depots, and schools.

Geographic information is very important if governments are to make these decisions properly. Businesses also greatly rely on geographic information systems to determine marketing strategies, distribution routes, and ideal store locations.

The Art of Geographic Information

GIS specialists use equipment and software to assemble, analyze, integrate, and display data from large computer banks. This data is then presented in terms of location so that information can be interpreted geographically. As a GIS specialist you would be involved with the entire process, surveying, handling data banks, mapping, and presenting data to local governments or advertising firms.

Certification in GIS & Other Options

There are several options if you choose to pursue an education in geographic information systems. Some students earn a bachelor's degree in geography with an emphasis in GIS. However, getting an associate's degree or certification in GIS is much more common. Many certification programs are available through universities and community colleges, as well as through online schools. Once enrolled in a GIS program, you may learn about the hardware and software used in GIS, the planning and construction of spatial databases, data analyzation, and data representation (mapping and graphing).

Many states do not require licensure or certification to work as a GIS specialist, but getting a GIS certification can greatly enhance your marketability. GIS certification, in conjunction with programs such as sociology or political science, could also greatly increase your career potential.

About the Author
Jonathon Donald is a freelance writer, student and teacher. He currently writes for various online sources, teaches English as a second language, and attends the University of Nevada. He is currently pursuing a degree in Language and Linguistics, History, and TESOL.