National Academies Press: OpenBook

Future U.S. Workforce for Geospatial Intelligence (2013)

Chapter: Appendix A: Example University Programs and Curricula

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Suggested Citation:"Appendix A: Example University Programs and Curricula." National Research Council. 2013. Future U.S. Workforce for Geospatial Intelligence. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/18265.
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Appendix A

Example University Programs and Curricula

An overview of the academic courses and skills needed for the 10 core and emerging areas is given in Chapters 2 and 3, and example academic programs in these areas are described in Chapter 6. This appendix provides supporting information, including example university programs associated with Chapters 2 and 3 (Tables A.1A.10) and example university curricula for degree and certificate programs discussed in Chapter 6 (Tables A.11A.15). The committee selected the example programs and curricula based on the following criteria:

•   longevity of the program,

•   critical mass of instructors,

•   number of students graduated in the academic and skill areas sought by NGA,

•   caliber of instructors, and

•   a curricular focus that allows the types of problem solving and analysis needed by NGA.

For the university programs in emerging areas, where university degree programs do not exist, the committee chose 5 to 10 programs that offer reasonably comprehensive coursework and relevant skills.

Suggested Citation:"Appendix A: Example University Programs and Curricula." National Research Council. 2013. Future U.S. Workforce for Geospatial Intelligence. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/18265.
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UNIVERSITY PROGRAMS IN CORE AND EMERGING AREAS

Example Programs in Core Areas

TABLE A.1 Example University Programs in Geodesy and Geophysics

University Department Conceniiation/Track Degree
Geodesy
California State University, Fresno Civil and Geomatics Engineering Geomatics engineering B.S.
Ferris State University College of Engineering Technology Surveying engineering B.S.
Florida Atlantic University Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering Geomatics engineering B.S.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences Geodesy M.S., Ph.D.
Ohio State University Civil, Environmental, and Geodetic Engineering; and Division of Geodetic Science Geospatial and geodetic engineering; geodetic science M.S., Ph.D.
Oregon Institute of Technology Geomatics Surveying B.S.
Pennsylvania State University College of Engineering Surveying engineering B.S.
Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi School of Engineering and Computing Sciences Geomatics B.S., M.S.
University of Alaska, Anchorage Geomatics Geomatics B.S.
University of Colorado, Boulder Aerospace Engineering Sciences Geodesy M.S., Ph.D.
University of Florida School of Forest Resources and Conservation Geomatics B.S.,M.S., Ph.D.
University of Maine School of Engineering Technology Surveying Engineering Technology B.S.
University of Texas, Austin Center for Space Research Geodesy M.S., Ph.D.
Geophysics
California Institute of Technology Division of Geological and Planetary Sciences Geophysics B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
Columbia University Earth and Environmental Sciences Geoscience B.S., Ph.D.
Harvard University Earth and Planetary Sciences Geophysics BA., Ph.D.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences Geoscience B.S., M.S., Ph.D., D.Sc.
Princeton University Geosciences Geophysics B.A., Ph.D.
Stanford University Geophysics Geophysics B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
University of California, Berkeley Earth and Planetary Science Geophysics B.S., M.A., Ph.D.
University of California, Santa Cruz Earth and Planetary Sciences Geophysics B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
University of Southern California Earth Sciences Geophysics B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
University of Texas, Austin Institute for Geophysics Geophysics M.S., Ph.D.
University of Washington Earth and Space Sciences Geophysics B.S., M.S., Ph.D.

Approximate number of schools: 20 for geodesy and 60 for geophysics.

Suggested Citation:"Appendix A: Example University Programs and Curricula." National Research Council. 2013. Future U.S. Workforce for Geospatial Intelligence. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/18265.
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TABLE A.2 University Programs Offering Some Photogrammetry

University Department Concentration/Track Degree
Ohio Stare University Geodetic Science Photogra m me try M.S., Ph.D.
Purdue University Geomatics Engineering Photogra m me try M.S., Ph.D.
University of Florida Geomatics Geomatics, Photogrammetry B.S., M.S., Ph.D.a
Ferris State University School of CEEMS Surveying Engineering B.S.b
California State University, Fresno Civil and Geomatics Engineering Geomatics Engineering, Photogrammetry B.S., M.S.a
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona Civil Engineering Geospatial Engineering B.S.b
New Mexico State University Engineering Technology and Surveying Engineering Surveying Engineering B.S.b
Oregon Institute of Technology Geomatics Geomatics B.S.b
Texas A 6c M University, Corpus Christie Geographic Information Science and Geospatial Surveying Engineering Geomatics, Geospatial Surveying B.S., M.S.b
Pennsylvania State University, Wilkes-Barre Surveying Engineering Surveying Engineering B.S.b
University of Alaska, Anchorage Geomatics Geomatics B.S.b
George Mason University Geography and Geoinformation Science Geography, Geoinformation Science M.S., Ph.D.c
East Tennessee State University Surveying and Mapping GIS and Photogrammetry B.S.b

Approximate number of schools: 15.

a B.S. includes some courses in photogrammetry; graduate degree has a concentration in photogrammetry.

b Includes some courses in photogrammetry.

c One introductory course in photogrammetry taught by a non-faculty member (from industry).

TABLE A.3 Example Universities with a Remote Sensing-Related Track or Degree

University Department Concentration/Track Degree
Air Force Institute of Technology Engineering Physics Engineering M.S., Ph.D.
Boston University Geography Remote sensing B.A., M.A., Ph.D.
Clark University Geography Remote sensing BA., M.A., Ph.D.
George Mason University Geography and Geolnformation Science Remote sensing BA., MS, Ph.D.
Naval Post Graduate School Information Science Engineering M.S., Ph.D.
Pennsylvania State University Geography Remote sensing B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
Rochester Institute of Technology Center for Imaging Science Remote sensing B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
University of California, Santa Barbara Geography Remote sensing BA., M.A., Ph.D.
University of Colorado, Boulder Geography Remote sensing BA., M.A., Ph.D.
University of Maryland Geography Remote sensing B.S., M.A, Ph.D.
University of Michigan Geoscience and Remote Sensing Engineering B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
University of South Carolina Geography Remote sensing B.A., M.S., Ph.D.
University of Utah Geography Remote sensing B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
University of New Hampshire Forestry Remote sensing BA., M.S., Ph.D.
University of Montana Ecosystem and Conservation Science Remote sensing B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
University of Georgia Geography Remote sensing BA., M.A., Ph.D.

Approximate number of schools: 63.

Suggested Citation:"Appendix A: Example University Programs and Curricula." National Research Council. 2013. Future U.S. Workforce for Geospatial Intelligence. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/18265.
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TABLE A.4 Example Universities with a Cartography Track or Degree

University Department Concentration/Track Degree
University of Arkansas Geosciences Cartography/remote sensing B.A., M.A.
University of Colorado, Boulder Geography GIS and cartography BA., MA., Ph.D.
Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville Geography GIS and cartography BA, M.S.
Salem State College Geography Cartography and GIS B.S, M.S.
Frostburg State University Geography Mapping sciences B.S.
University of Nebraska, Lincoln Geography GIS, cartography, and remote sensing M.S.
State University of New York, Binghamton Geography Cartography and GIS M.A.
Kent State University Geography GIS and cartography B.A. minor
East Central University Cartography and Geography Geotechniques B.S.
Indiana University of Pennsylvania Geography and Regional Planning GIS cartographer B.A., M.S.
George Mason University Geography and Geolnformation Science Geographic and cartographic sciences M.S.
University of Washington Geography GIS mapping and society B.A.
University of Wisconsin, Madison Geography Cartography and geographic information science B.S., M.S.
University of Wisconsin, River Falls Geography and Mapping Sciences GIS and cartography B A. minor

Approximate number of schools: 35.

TABLE A.5 Example Universities with Degree Tracks in GIS and Geographic Information Science

University Department Concentration/Track Degree
Arizona Stare University School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning GIS-Spatial Analysis M.A.
Clark University International, Development, Community and Environment; and School of Geography Geographic Information Science for Development and Environment M.A.
Pennsylvania State University Geography; and John A. Dutton e-Education Institute GIS M.
University of California, Santa Barbara Geography Modeling, measurement, and computation M.A, M.S.
University of Colorado, Boulder Geography GIS M.A.
University of Minnesota Geography GIS M.
University of Pennsylvania School of Design Urban spatial analytics M.
University of Redlands GIS GIS M.S.
University of South Carolina Geography Geographic information science M.A, M.S.
University of Southern California Dana and David Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences Geographic information science and technology M.
University of Washington Professional and Continuing Education GIS Prof.M.
State University of New York, Buffalo Geography Geographic information systems and science M.A, M.S.

Approximate number of schools: 189 degree programs in GIS and more than 400 community colleges and technical schools that offer some form of training in geospatial technologies. See <http://www.urisa.org/career/colleges>.

Suggested Citation:"Appendix A: Example University Programs and Curricula." National Research Council. 2013. Future U.S. Workforce for Geospatial Intelligence. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/18265.
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Example Programs in Emerging Areas

TABLE A.6 Example Universities with Courses Relevant to GEOINT Fusion

University Department or Research Unit Concentration/Track Academic Structure
University of Southern California Computer Science Database interoperability Graduate
Georgia Institute of Technology Electrical Engineering Multisensor data fusion Graduate
University of California, Santa Barbara Geography Geographic information science: Map conflation Undergraduate
Purdue University Civil Engineering Geomatics: Image fusion Undergraduate
Johns Hopkins University Computer Science Semantic web Graduate
Pennsylvania State University Information Science and Technology Multisensor data fusion Graduate
State University of New York, Buffalo Industrial and Systems Engineering Multisource information fusion Graduate

Approximate number of schools: 12 offering courses covering some aspects of data fusion.

TABLE A.7 Example Universities with Courses Relevant to Crowdsourcing

University Department or Research Unit Concentration/Track Academic Structure
University of California, Los Angeles Center for Embedded Networks Systems Participatory sensing Graduate
University of California, Berkeley Algorithms, Machines, and People Lab Large-scale data analytics Graduate
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory Systems for crowdsourcing Graduate
Rutgers University Wireless Information Networks Laboratory Privacy, security Graduate
University of Pennsylvania General Robotics, Automation, Sensing and Perception Laboratory Sensor networks Graduate

Approximate number of schools: fewer than 10.

TABLE A.8 Example Universities with Courses Relevant to Human Geography

University Department or Research Unit Concentration/Track Academic Structure
Carnegie Mellon University Institute for Software Research Computation, organizations, and society Graduate
University of California, Irvine Sociology Social networks Undergraduate, graduate
Duke University Sociology Social networks Undergraduate, graduate
University of Arizona Sociology Social networks Unde rgradu ate, graduate

Approximate number of schools: fewer than 10.

Suggested Citation:"Appendix A: Example University Programs and Curricula." National Research Council. 2013. Future U.S. Workforce for Geospatial Intelligence. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/18265.
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TABLE A.9 Example Universities with Courses Relevant to Visual Analytics

University Department or Research Unit Concentration/Track Academic Structure
Purdue University Visual Analytics for Command, Control, and Interoperability Environments Visualization, data sciences Graduate
University of North Carolina, Charlotte Charlotte Visualization Center Graphics, visualization Undergraduate, graduate
Georgia Institute of Technology Graphics, Visualization, and Usability Center Computer graphics, visualization, human-computer interface Undergraduate, graduate
University of Washington Pacific Rim Visualization and Analytics Center Visual analytic systems Undergraduate, graduate
University of Massachusetts, Lowell Institute for Visualization and Perception Research Visualization technologies, visual analytics Undergraduate, graduate
Stanford University Stanford Visualization Group Data analysis, visualization Graduate
University of California, Santa Barbara Media Arts and Technology Media arts and technology Graduate

Approximate number of schools: 15.

TABLE A.10 Example Universities with Courses Relevant to Forecasting

University Department or Research Unit Concentration/Track Academic Structure
University of Oklahoma School of Meteorology Weather forecasting Undergraduate, graduate
University of Washington Atmospheric Sciences Weather forecasting Undergraduate, graduate
Arizona State University School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planing Spatial statistics, spatial modeling, and econometrics Undergraduate, graduate
Ohio State University Statistics Spatial statistics, spatial modeling, and econometrics Undergraduate, graduate
University of Texas, Dallas School of Economic, Political, and Policy Sciences Spatial statistics, spatial modeling, and econometrics Undergraduate, graduate
Pennsylvania State University Geography Spatial statistics, spatial modeling, and econometrics Undergraduate, graduate
Carnegie Mellon University Institute for Software Research Agent-based modeling Undergraduate, graduate
George Mason University Computer Science Agent-based modeling Undergraduate, graduate
University of Michigan Center for the Study of Complex Systems Agent-based modeling Undergraduate, graduate
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Mechanical Engineering Complex systems and economics Undergraduate, graduate
Northwestern University Institute on Complex Systems Complex systems and economics Undergraduate, graduate
Harvard University Economics Economics Undergraduate, graduate
Princeton University Economics Economics Undergraduate, graduate
University of Chicago Economics Economics Undergraduate, graduate

Approximate number of schools: more than 100. Most large universities offer courses in economics, computer science, mathematics, statistics, and social sciences that have analytical and modeling components relevant to prediction and forecasting.

Suggested Citation:"Appendix A: Example University Programs and Curricula." National Research Council. 2013. Future U.S. Workforce for Geospatial Intelligence. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/18265.
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EXAMPLE CURRICULA

TABLE A.11 Coursework for an Undergraduate Degree in Geographic Information Science at the University of Colorado

Coursea Title Description
Two or three of the following (8-12 credits)

GEOG 2053 (4 credits)

Mapping a changing world

Overviews the vital role cartography plays in modern society and contemporary science. Fundamentals of reading and creating maps for research and enjoyment

GEOG 3023 (4 credits)

Statistics for earth sciences

Introduces parametric and distribution-free statistics, emphasizes applications to earth science problems. Not open to students who have taken a college-level statistics course. Restricted to junior and senior geography, geology, and environmental studies majors

GEOG 3053 (4 credits)

Cartography 1: Visualization and information design

Fundamentals of cartography—the science and art of map design. Restricted to junior and senior geography and environmental studies majors. Recommended GEOG 3023 (may be taken concurrently)

All of the following (9 credits)

GEOG 4023 (3 credits)b

Introduction to quantitative methods in human geography

Introduces fundamental statistical and quantitative modeling techniques widely used in geography today. Emphasizes geographic examples and spatial problems, using statistical routines now available on most computers. Prereq GEOG 3023 or equivalent

GEOG 4033 (2 credits)b

Quantitative methods in geography laboratory

Introduces the use of personal computers and statistical software in geographical analysis. Corequisite GEOG 4023

GEOG 4103 (4 credits)

Introduction to geographic information science

Use of tools and databases specifically designed for spatial data. Covers data management and procedures for transforming, storing/retrieving, and analyzing geographic data. Restricted to junior and senior geography and environmental studies majors. Prerequisites GEOG 3023 and GEOG 3053

One to four of the following (4-16 credits)

GEOG 4043 (4 credits)

Cartography 2: Interactive and multimedia mapping

Interactive, multimedia, animated, and Web-based cartography stressing the important role digital cartography plays in cyberspace. Focuses on principles of effective cartographic design in multimedia and hypertext environments. Prerequisite GEOG 3053

GEOG 4093 (4 credits)

Remote sensing of the environment

Acquisition and interpretation of environmental data by remote sensing. Topics include theory and sensors as well as manual and computerized interpretation methods. Stresses infrared and microwave portions of the spectrum

GEOG 4110 (4 credits)

Advanced remote sensing

Extends basic concepts and skills of image processing and physics of remote sensors, with deeper examination of image analysis techniques for extracting the maximum amount of information. Prerequisite GEOG 4093

GEOG 4203 (4 credits)

Geographic information science: Modeling applications

Develops GIS models for human and environmental applications, grid and vector data models, tesselated and hierarchical data structures, terrain representation, linear and areal interpolation and kriging. Students work in small group to design, implement, and run GIS models. Prerequisite GEOG 4103/5103, GEOG 3023 (or equivalent) or instructor consent

GEOG 4303 (4 credits)

Geographic information science: Programming

Introduces the use of Python programming to undertake advanced spatial analysis tasks within a GIS environment. Prerequisite GEOG 4103/5103, GEOG 3023 (or equivalent) or instructor consent

GEOG 4xxx (4 credits)

Spatial statistics (under development)

Involves the quantitative analysis of spatial data and statistical modeling of spatial variability and uncertainty. Topics may include point pattern analysis, model-based geostatistics, semivariogram analysis, validation methods and simulation

GEOG 5113 (4 credits)

Advanced spatial topics in GIS

Graduate seminar; topics vary

SOURCE: <http://geography.colorado.edu/undergrad _program/areas_of_concentration/geographic_information_science>.

a All 4-credit courses require 45 hours in lecture and 30–45 hours in laboratory.

b GEOG 4023 and 4033 must be taken concurrently and together require 45 hours in lecture and 45 hours in laboratory.

Suggested Citation:"Appendix A: Example University Programs and Curricula." National Research Council. 2013. Future U.S. Workforce for Geospatial Intelligence. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/18265.
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TABLE A.12 Coursework for a Master’s Degree in Geographic and Cartographic Sciences at George Mason University

Course Title Description
Required courses (12 credits)a

GGS 553 (3 credits)

Geographic Information System

Sources of digital geospatial data; and methods of input, storage, display, and processing of spatial data for geographic analysis using GIS. Lectures, hands-on exercises familiarize students with current technology

GGS 579 (3 credits)

Remote sensing

Examines use of various types and combinations of electromagnetic energy to obtain spatial information. Concentrates on nonphotographic and spaceborne remote sensing platforms and sensors. Examines essential operational parameters for existing and future systems and strategies for visual extraction of features

GGS 560 (3 credits)

Quantitative methods

Survey of quantitative methods commonly used in geographic research. Emphasizes spatial analysis techniques

GGS 689 (3 credits)

Seminar in geographic thought and methodology

Includes historical development of geographic thought and current philosophy of geography; rationale for various subfields; and geographic research techniques and methods of analysis

Electives (21-24 credits)b

GGS 503 (3 credits)

Problems in environmental management

Case studies of effects of human activities on atmospheric, hydrologic, geomorphic, and biotic processes

GGS 505 (3 credits)

Transportation geography

Structure, principles, location, and development of world transportation. Critical role of transportation in moving people, goods, and ideas at international, national, regional, and urban levels

GGS 525 (3 credits)

Economics of human/environmental interactions

Advanced topics in environmental, natural resource, and ecological economics for noneconomist. Emphasizes sustainability, intergenerational equity, and economic-ecological feedbacks

GGS 531 (3 credits)

Land-use modeling techniques and applications

Survey of literature on spatially explicit empirical models of land-use change. Hands-on experience developing and running simple models. Techniques covered include statistical models, mathematical programming models, cellular automata, agent-based models, and integrated models

GGS 533 (1-6 credits)

Issues in regional geography

Geographical study of particular region or relevant regional issue

GGS 540 (3 credits)

Medical geography

Spatial approaches to study of health and disease. Topics include disease ecology and diffusion, and geographic perspectives on improving health care delivery

GGS 551 (3 credits)

Thematic cartography

Analyzes nature of perceptual organization and visual systems in thematic map communication portrayal, graphic handling, and data analysis

GGS 554 (3 credits)

History of cartography

History of cartographic portrayal of Earth from ancient times through 19th century, emphasizing interrelation of human culture, technological development, and geographical knowledge as reflected in maps

GGS 562 (3 credits)

Photogrammetry

Treatment of photogrammetric problems, including least-squares adjustments, image coordination refinements, colinearity equation, resection, relative orientation, and analytic aerotriangulation

GGS 563 (3 credits)

Advanced Geographic Information Systems

Discusses advanced GIS concepts including spatial data structure, spatial analysis, programming data fusion, Internet components, and spatial database management. Hands-on activities demonstrate concepts and specific applications in both cultural and physical geography

GGS 579 (3 credits)

Digital remote sensing

Examines use of various types and combinations of electromagnetic energy to obtain spatial information. Concentrates on nonphotographic and spaceborne remote sensing platforms and sensors. Examines essential operational parameters for existing and future systems and strategies for visual extraction of features

GGS 581 (3 credits)

World food and population

Topics include maldistribution of population, regional disparities in growth rates and income distribution, food production, and world hunger. Discusses population policies, with emphasis on Third World countries

GGS 590 (1-3 credits)

Geography of insurgency

Special topics seminar which analyzes topics of immediate interest in political unrest and insurgency

GGS 590 (1-3 credits)

Political geography

Special topics seminar which analyzes topics of immediate interest in political policies and political behavior

GGS 590 (1-3 credits)

GIS for business

Special topics seminar which analyzes topics of immediate interest in business related applications of GIS such as enterprise GIS, GIS for real estate, location analysis and marketing

GGS 590 (1-3 credits)

GIS for the environment

Special topics seminar which analyzes topics of immediate interest in GIS and environmental modeling, conservation, and sustainability

GGS 605 (3 credits)

Socioeconomic applications of GIS

Provides those working with spatially referenced data the technical skills to use GIS to conduct spatial analyses on socioeconomic phenomena related to labor, retail, and real estate markets. Introduces and emphasizes the development of technical and methodological skills to understand the potential and the pitfalls of using GIS for spatial analyses of socioeconomic phenomena

GGS 631 (3 credits)

Spatial agent-based models of human environment interactions

Discusses key challenges in spatial modeling of human-environment interactions. Reviews agent-based modeling applications in urban and rural interactions, agriculture, forestry, and other areas. Hands-on development of simple agent-based models and investigation of linkages between GIS and agent-based models

Suggested Citation:"Appendix A: Example University Programs and Curricula." National Research Council. 2013. Future U.S. Workforce for Geospatial Intelligence. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/18265.
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Course Title Description

GGS 650 (3 credits)

Introduction to GIS programming

Introduction to programming methods and their application to Geographic Information Systems, including the fundamentals of object-oriented programming and GIS-specific data structures and algorithms. Employs an object-oriented language such as Visual Basic.Net, and existing freeware and commercial GIS libraries. Topics covered include variables, arrays, control structures, objects and classes, raster and vector data structures, spatial algorithms, and spatial indexing methods

GGS 653 (3 credits)

Geographic information analysis

Explores existing and potential capabilities of geographic information systems in conducting spatial analysis and modeling

GGS 655 (3 credits)

Map design

Advanced examination of principles of map design, including discussions of map design research

GGS 656 (3 credits)

The hydrosphere

Covers components and transfer processes in hydrosphere, which consists of aqueous envelope of Earth including oceans, lakes, rivers, snow, ice, glaciers, soil moisture, groundwater, and atmospheric water vapor

GGS 658 (3 credits)

Terrain mapping

Covers fundamental methods of digitally representing terrain data, major technologies, and programs for generating terrain data; methods for quantifying terrain error and assessing terrain data quality; and a variety of applications

GGS 661 (3 credits)

Map projections and coordinate systems

Covers development of various map projections and coordinate systems, property analysis, distortions, and applications

GGS 664 (3 credits)

Spatial data structures

Studies spatial data structures and their application in digital cartography, geographic information systems, and image-processing systems. Examines raster and vector data structures, and attribution schemes and topological models. Includes data transformation, information loss, data quality, and the role of metadata

SOURCE: <http://cos.gmu.edu/academics/graduate/ms/geographic-and-cartographic-sciences-ms>.

a 3 semester credits translates to 45 hours in class.

b 18 credits of electives plus 3-6 credits GSS 799 Thesis Writing for the thesis option, and 24 credits of electives for the nonthesis option.

Suggested Citation:"Appendix A: Example University Programs and Curricula." National Research Council. 2013. Future U.S. Workforce for Geospatial Intelligence. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/18265.
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TABLE A.13 Coursework for an Online Master’s Degree in GIS at Penn State World Campus

Coursea Title Description
Required courses (23-26 credits)

GEOG 482 (2 credits)

The nature of geographic information

Orientation to the properties of geographic data and the practice of distance learning

GEOG 483 (3 credits)

Problem solving with GIS

How geographic information systems facilitate data analysis and communication to address common geographic problems

GEOG 484 (3 credits)

GIS database development

Database design, creation, and maintenance, and data integration using desktop GIS software

GEOG 583 (3 credits)

Geospatial system analysis and design

Systematic approach to requirements acquisition, specification, design and implementation of geospatial information systems

GEOG 584 (3 credits)

Geospatial technology project management

Principles of effective project management applied to the design and implementation of geospatial information systems

GEOG 586 (3 credits)

Geographical information analysis

Choosing and applying analytical methods for geospatial data, including point pattern analysis, interpolation, surface analysis, overlay analysis, and spatial autocorrelation

GEOG 596A (3-9 credits)

Individual studies—Peer review

Preparation and presentation of a proposal for an individual capstone project

GEOG 596B (3-9 credits)

Individual studies—Capstone project

Preparation and delivery of a formal professional presentation of the results of an individual capstone project

 

Electives (minimum 9 credits)

GEOG 485 (3 credits)

GIS programming and customization

Customizing GIS software to extend its built-in functionality and to automate repetitive tasks

GEOG 486 (3 credits)

Cartography and visualization

Theory and practice of cartographic design, emphasizing effective visual thinking and visual communication with geographic information systems

GEOG 487 (3 credits)

Environmental applications of GIS

Simulated internship experience in which students play the role of GIS analysts in an environmental consultancy

GEOG 488 (3 credits)

Acquiring and integrating geospatial data

Advanced technical, legal, ethical, and institutional problems related to data acquisition for geospatial information systems

GEOG 489 (3 credits)

GIS application development

Advanced topics in GIS customization, including the Systems Development Life Cycle, packaging and deployment, and consuming Web services

GEOG 497D (3 credits)

Lidar technology and applications

Understanding lidar systems; design, operation, data processing techniques, and product generation to address typical application scenarios faced by the geospatial professional

GEOG 587 (3 credits)

Conservation GIS

Conservation GIS applies geospatial problem solving to ecological research and resource management issues to enhance conservation planning

GEOG 588 (3 credits)

Planning GIS for emergency management

Requirements analysis and proposal writing to plan and implement GIS solutions supporting emergency management activities of government agencies and contractors

GEOG 597K (3 credits)

GIS for analysis of health

The role of geographic information systems in understanding disease, including relevant spatial analysis and cartographic visualization techniques

GEOG 861 (1 credit)

Map projections for geospatial professionals

Cultivates a working knowledge of map projections that professionals need to process geospatial data effectively for mapping and analysis

GEOG 862 or GEOG 497I (3 credits)

GPS and GNSS for geospatial professionals

Cultivates a working knowledge of current and future capabilities of GPS and the emerging Global Navigation Satellite System

GEOG 863 or GEOG 497J (3 credits)

GIS mashups for geospatial professionals

Cultivates a working knowledge of how and why geospatial professionals develop web mapping applications that combine data from multiple sources

GEOG 864 or GEOG 598E (2 credits)

Professionalism in GIS&T

Prepares current and aspiring professionals to recognize, analyze, and address ethical problems in the geographic information science and technology field

GEOG 897G (3 credits)

Trends in geospatial technology

Developing lifelong learning skills to take advantage of the changing tools of geospatial technology

STAT 480 (1 credit)

Introduction to SAS

Introduction to SAS with emphasis on reading, manipulating, and summarizing data

STAT 505b (3 credits)

Applied multivariate statistical analysis

Analysis of multivariate data; T-squared tests; partial correlation; discrimination; MANOVA; cluster analysis; regression; growth curves; factor analysis; principal components; canonical correlations

SOURCE: <http://www.worldcampus.psu.edu/degrees-and-certificates/geographic-information-systems-gis-masters/course-list>.

a The M.S. degree requires 35 credits and is expected to take 3 years full time to complete.

b Elective for a master’s degree in GIS only.

Suggested Citation:"Appendix A: Example University Programs and Curricula." National Research Council. 2013. Future U.S. Workforce for Geospatial Intelligence. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/18265.
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CERTIFICATES

TABLE A.14 Selected Institutions That Offer Cartography, GIS, and Remote Sensing-Related Certificates

Institution, Department Certificate Title Course Description

California State University, East Bay, Geography

Certificate in Cartography and GIS 20 hours

George Mason University, Geography and GeoInformation Science

Graduate Certificate in Remote Sensing 15 hours

Georgia Tech, School of Earth and Atmosphere

Certificate Program in Remote Sensing 12 hours

Humbolt State, Forestry and Wildland Resources

Certificate in GIS and Remote Sensing 5 courses

Institute of Geoinformatics and Remote Sensing

Post Graduate Certificate in GIS and Remote Sensing 6 months; 150 hours

University of Twente, International Institute for Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation

Hyperspectral Remote Sensing Certificate
Remote Sensing and GIS Geology Exploration Certificate
6 weeks
9 weeks

 

Principles of Remote Sensing Certificate 9 weeks

Oregon State University, College of Forestry

GIScience Certificate with Emphasis in Remote Sensing 19 hours

Symbosis Institute of Geoinformatics

Certificate Course in Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing 2 months

Mississippi State University, Division of Academic Outreach

Geospatial and Remote Sensing Technology Certificate 15 hours

Naval Postgraduate School

Space Systems Certificate 4 courses

Northeastern University, Professional Studies

Graduate Certificate in Remote Sensing 6 courses

Rutgers University, Geography

Geospatial Information Science Certificate 12 hours

San Jose State University, Geography

Certificate in GIScience with Specialization in Remote Sensing 18 hours

West Virginia University, Geography

Certificate in GIS and Remote Sensing 15 hours

University of Colorado, Boulder, Aerospace Engineering

Remote Sensing Certificate 4 courses

University of California, Davis, Center for Spatial Technologies and Remote Sensing

Base, Intermediate, and Advanced Certificates in Remote Sensing not available

University of Maryland, Professional Studies

Graduate Certificate in GIS 12 hours

University of Michigan, Dearborn, Natural Sciences

Certificate in GIS and Remote Sensing 16 hours

University of Mississippi, School of Law

Certificate in Remote Sensing, Air, and Space Law 27 hours

University of New Orleans, Geography

Remote Sensing and GIS Certification 4 courses

University of Omaha, Geography

Graduate GIScience Certificate 17 hours

University of Texas, Dallas, Economic Policy

Graduate Certificate in Remote Sensing 15 hours

 

Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Intelligence 15 hours

University of Texas, Arlington, Geology

Certification in Remote Sensing, GPS and GIS 15 hours

University of Utah, Geography

Certificate in GIS with Emphasis in Remote Sensing 22 hours

St. Louis University, Environmental Sciences

Graduate Certificate in Advances in Remote Sensing and GIS 15 hours

Texas A&M University, Geography

Remote Sensing Certification 4 courses; 12 hours

York University

GIS and Remote Sensing Certificate not available

Webster University, Business and Technology

Graduate Certificate in Remote Sensing Analysis and GIS 18 hours

SOURCES: Association of American Geographers, Environmental Systems Research Institute, and the Urban and Regional Science Association.

TABLE A.15 Course Requirements for a Certificate in GIS with an Emphasis in Remote Sensing at the Department of Geography, University of Utah

Course Number Title Hours in Classa
GEOG 3020 Geographical analysis 45
GEOG 3110 The Earth from space: Remote sensing of the environment 45
GEOG 3140 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems 45
GEOG 5110 Environmental analysis through remote sensing 45
GEOG 5120 Environmental optics 45
GEOG 5130 Advanced remote sensing applications 45
One of the following:
CS 1000 Engineering computing 45
CS 1020 Introduction to programming in C++ 45
CS 1021 Introduction to programming in Java 45
CS 1410 Introduction to computer science I 60
CS 2000 Introduction to program design in C 60
Total hours in class   315 or 330

SOURCE: <http://www.geog.utah.edu/giscert/rs_track.html>.

a 3 semester credit hours = 45 hours in class.

Suggested Citation:"Appendix A: Example University Programs and Curricula." National Research Council. 2013. Future U.S. Workforce for Geospatial Intelligence. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/18265.
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We live in a changing world with multiple and evolving threats to national security, including terrorism, asymmetrical warfare (conflicts between agents with different military powers or tactics), and social unrest. Visually depicting and assessing these threats using imagery and other geographically-referenced information is the mission of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA). As the nature of the threat evolves, so do the tools, knowledge, and skills needed to respond. The challenge for NGA is to maintain a workforce that can deal with evolving threats to national security, ongoing scientific and technological advances, and changing skills and expectations of workers.

Future U.S. Workforce for Geospatial Intelligence assesses the supply of expertise in 10 geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) fields, including 5 traditional areas (geodesy and geophysics, photogrammetry, remote sensing, cartographic science, and geographic information systems and geospatial analysis) and 5 emerging areas that could improve geospatial intelligence (GEOINT fusion, crowdsourcing, human geography, visual analytics, and forecasting). The report also identifies gaps in expertise relative to NGA's needs and suggests ways to ensure an adequate supply of geospatial intelligence expertise over the next 20 years.

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