Program: Geographic Information Sciences Certificate - South Dakota State University

2023-2024 Graduate Catalog

Apr 03, 2025

Students working at computers.

Program Coordinator/Contact

Bob Watrel, Department Head
George White, Professor/Graduate Coordinator
Department of Geography and Geospatial Sciences
Wecota Hall 109, Box 506
605-688-4511

Program Information

The certificate in Geographic Information Sciences prepares students to utilize their knowledge of geographic applications, and various geospatial technologies to meet the challenges of today’s society. The program includes the necessary courses to prepare the graduate to function in geographic information science and allows students to develop their knowledge and skills in this area. The certificate targets people seeking a different level of learning outside of a traditional degree format, although any student can obtain the certificate to bolster their resume. Complete the graduate certificate as a stand-alone credential or stacked into the Professional Science (M.S.) . Even better, it is available online, making it a great option for working professionals wishing to enhance their skills in a critical area.

Course Delivery Format

Courses will be delivered face-to-face and online.

Student Learning Outcomes

Understand the fundamental theory of Geographic Information Science (GISc).
Become proficient in the use of GISc tools to conduct spatial analyses and build maps that are fit-for-purpose and effectively convey the information they are intended to.
Apply and interpret fundamental geospatial analyses and visualization techniques.
Identify and critically analyze patterns of human-environment interactions, including perception, distribution and use of natural resources.
Demonstrate the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Certificate Requirements

GEOG 573 - GIS Data Creation/Integration Credits: 2
GEOG 573L - GIS: Data Creation and Integration Lab Credits: 1
GEOG 574 - GIS: Vector & Raster Modeling Credits: 2
GEOG 574L - GIS: Vector and Raster Modeling Lab Credits: 1

Select from the following

Select six credits from the following. Credits: 6

GEOG 515 - Environmental Geography and Sustainability Credits: 3
GEOG 554 - Sustainable Communities Credits: 3
GEOG 575 - GIS Applications Credits: 2
GEOG 575L - GIS Applications Lab Credits: 1
GEOG 580 - Satellite Remote Sensing Credits: 2
GEOG 580L - Satellite Remote Sensing Lab Credits: 1
GEOG 583 - UAS Remote Sensing Credits: 2
GEOG 583L - UAS Remote Sensing Lab Credits: 1
GEOG 585 - Advanced Satellite Remote Sensing Credits: 2
GEOG 585L - Advanced Satellite Remote Sensing Lab Credits: 1
GEOG 768 - Global Climate Change Credits: 3
GEOG 786 - Geographic Information Systems Credits: 3

Total Required Credits: 12

Additional Admission Requirements

TOEFL: 71 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 7.5
IELTS: 6.0
Duolingo: 100

Please refer to the following for additional information: Graduate School Admissions

Additional Information

Students enrolled in SDSU certificate programs are not eligible for federal student financial aid. The non-federal alternative loan programs may be used for students meeting the lender criteria as found at www.sdstate.edu (search alternative loans). For further information, please contact the SDSU financial aid office at 605-688-4695 or finaid@sdstate.edu.

Geographic Information Sciences Certificate

Location(s): Brookings Main Campus, CloseOnlineClose