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Geographic Information Science for Resource Management


Location(s):  Prince Albert   

Geographic Information Science for Resource Management is a certificate program. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) use modern technology to automate, integrate, analyze and communicate spatially-based information. You will develop skills and acquire knowledge through a hands on approach to GIS software and related skills and technologies.

These include:

  • mapping and compassing

  • air photo interpretation

  • Global Positioning Systems

  • remote sensing and image analysis

  • computer programming

  • database design


Length: 34 weeks


Career Opportunities

Graphic Information Science (GIS) is a relatively new field in which the job prospects are expanding 15% to 20% every year. GIS is becoming the fastest way to link spatial data (maps) with attribute data (database tables) to use for managing wildlife, fisheries, forestry, forest fire control, evidence collection for conservation officers and many other non-resource based industries.

Graduates are prepared for employment as entry level GIS technicians in a variety of settings including:

  • natural resource based industries

  • First Nations industries

  • consulting and environmental agencies

  • government agencies

  • municipal agencies (infrastructure GIS management)


For more information about career opportunities related to this program, contact Student Employment Services at the campus nearest you.

  • data analysts
  • gis mapping technicians
  • gis specialists
  • gis technicians
  • gps operators
  • mapping cartographers
  • remote sensing analysts

Program Details

Start Date(s): September

Apply Now

Admission Requirements


  • Grade 12

  • Minimum 65% average in English Language Arts A30 and English Language Arts B30 (combined)

  • Minimum 65% average in Math A30 and Math B30 (combined) *

  • English Language Requirement


Note

  • Computer literacy is recommended.


*Revised Mathematics Curriculum Requirement
(Effective July 1, 2013)


  • Minimum of 60% in Workplace and Apprenticeship Math 30 or in Foundations of Math 30 or in Pre-Calculus 30
    (replacing Math A30 and B30 above)

  • All other admission requirements remain unchanged



Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. You must review the details and program specific documentation concerning Special Admission.


The majority of SIAST programs have established ACCUPLACER© cut scores and Post-Secondary Success Requirements. Depending on the program, additional specific admission requirements may still need to be met.


ACCUPLACER ©     

ACCUPLACER© Cut Scores
for this program

80Arithmetic
75Elementary Algebra
80Reading
80Sentence
Post-Secondary Success

Post-Secondary Success Requirements
for this program

One year post-secondary studies plus a minimum of 65% in the mathematics requirement


Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of SIAST programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

Tuition and Fees

  • For complete details on tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the SIAST campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Learning Method(s)

SIAST offers a variety of learning methods for course delivery. The following learning methods are available for some of the courses in this program.
      Classroom
    • Lab instruction
      Home Study
      Online
      Shop/Lab
      Work Experience
    • Your four-week work experience will be with an organization that uses GIS. Some work experiences will be in locations other than Prince Albert so you may need to budget for additional transportation and accommodation expenses.

Please refer to the course descriptions for course specific learning methods.


Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Availability

SIAST recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.





Transfer Credit and Future Study Options

SIAST may recognize formal learning from other educational institutions.



  • COMM 300  Basic Communication Skills
  • You will refine your job search skills. You will identify job-search strategies, and develop a personal inventory of skills. The course content includes developing a resume, cover letter, letter writing, interoffice communication, oral presentations and preparing for and participating in a job practice interview.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • COMP 176  Introduction to Microsoft Access 1
  • You will study the basic features of Access. You will create simple tables, queries, forms and reports. You will also modify database elements such as fields and records.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard Individual, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   CDBM 190    COAP 197    COAP 345    COMP 120    COMP 284   


  • COMP 376  Principles of Database Design
  • The course provides an introduction to the principles of database design and implementation in the context of data handling for a GIS project. Principles pertaining to the relational database model will be emphasized.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    COMP 176 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • GIS_ 101  Geographic Information Systems for Resource Managers 1
  • You will achieve a basic understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) concepts and principles. You will learn how to display spatial data, work with tables and create a map layout using ArcView GIS.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   GIS 350    GIS 440   


  • GIS_ 301  Database Management for Geographic Information Systems
    (GIS)
  • Your studies will focus on various database management skills. You will work with larger Geographic Information System databases. The course content includes the principles of accessing, updating and verifications, and the different database management software that is available.


    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • GIS_ 302  Introduction to Mobile Geographic Information Systems
    (GIS)
  • Lectures, group work and practical exercises will help you learn how to integrate GPS and GIS technologies. You will also learn intermediate theories and the principles of geodesy (including positioning methods, errors and error management). You must complete a small project from the planning stage to final data output.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • GIS_ 310  Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Hardware
  • You will gain hands-on experience using various GIS hardware, including computers, plotters, digitizing tables and printers.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • GIS_ 320  Introduction to ARC/INFO
  • ARC/INFO is a popular high-end GIS with tools for automation, modification, management, analysis and geographic information display. Lab exercises will help you gain experience performing everyday GIS operations to develop skill in using these tools. You will acquire the technical groundwork to use ARC/INFO and apply GIS capabilities to real world problems. You will use a blend of traditional "workstation" and "desktop" modules.


    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    GIS 101 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • GIS_ 321  Introduction to ARC Map
  • Building on the skills developed in GIS 320 (Introduction to ARC/INFO), you will explore and become familiar with some more of the modules and capabilities of the Arc/Info GIS. You will use traditional "workstation" modules.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    GIS 320 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • GIS_ 330  Data Input for Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
  • You will learn how to get data for your GIS. You will use data input techniques and hardware to create new data sets involving issues of georeferencing, error checking, and adding attribute data. You will also survey existing GIS data sources. Dealing with different data formats will be emphasized.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    GIS 320 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and GIS 401 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • GIS_ 331  Data Integration and Quality Control
  • The challenges of combining different data sets and manipulating data to meet project requirements while maintaining consistency, integrity and precision are of great importance to the GIS user. Lab exercises and projects will introduce you to techniques and procedures used for data integration, updates and quality control.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    GIS 330 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • GIS_ 340  Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Project Management
  • The course provides an introduction to the process of planning and managing a GIS project. You will learn how to conceptualize a project from the design phase to the format of required deliverables by working through a realistic project scenario. The importance of careful data organization and documentation will be emphasized.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    GIS 401 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • GIS_ 351  Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Field Trip
  • You will participate in an off-campus field trip to explore GIS applications in resource management. You will gain an understanding of where and how GIS is applied to analyze and understand real-world situations.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Lab hours

    Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical


  • GIS_ 360  Vector Analysis
  • Practical applications and tutorials will help you learn the powerful analytical capabilities of a GIS using the vector data model. You will apply topological overlay, buffering and proximity analyzes of points, lines and polygons to resource management scenarios.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    GIS 401 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • GIS_ 361  Raster Analysis
  • Practical applications and tutorials will help you learn the powerful analytical capabilities of a GIS using the raster data model. Raster analysis techniques include Boolean and arithmetic grid overlays, neighbourhood and zonal functions, and surface representations of elevation, density, distance and proximity.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    GIS 401 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and GIS 320 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • GIS_ 362  Three-Dimensional Analysis
  • You will perform advanced GIS analysis using three-dimensional modeling.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    GIS 360 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and GIS 361 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • GIS_ 363  Basic Statistics and Geostatistics
  • You will receive an introduction to the basic elements of statistics (including the organization and reporting of statistical data, sampling, measures of central tendency, dispersion and regression). You will use geostatistics to estimate data values for locations that cannot be sampled directly. You will establish and use models of spatial correlation to interpolate unknown data values.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    GIS 360 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and GIS 361 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • GIS_ 370  Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Programming
  • Geoprocessing is used for batching ArcGIS processes. You will be introduced to the elements of how geoprocessing works, and to Modelbuilder. You will learn how to work with ArcGIS more efficiently by creating programs to automate repetitive tasks.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    GIS 320 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • GIS_ 372  Introduction to Visual Basic
  • Visual Basic is increasingly important as the customization environment for many Windows-based applications (including ARCGIS). You will be introduced to the basics of programming with Visual Basic.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • GIS_ 373  Visual Basic for Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
  • The course provides you with an opportunity to build on your programming skills in Visual Basic and apply them to ARCGIS.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    GIS 372 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • GIS_ 401  Geographic Information Systems for Resource Managers 2
  • You will build on the skills and concepts learned in GIS 101 (Geographic Information Systems for Resource Managers 1). You will input data and examine how coordinate systems and scale relate to GIS. You will learn spatial analysis techniques. Your GIS skills will be applied in a resource management project.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   GIS 440   

    Prerequisites:
    GIS 101 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • GPS_ 100  Basics of Global Positioning Systems (GPS)
  • You will receive an introduction to GPS for resource managers. You will review basic GPS theory and principles of geodesy (including positioning methods, errors and error management). You will gain hands-on experience using single-frequency GPS receivers. You will learn how to navigate using handheld GPS receivers. You must complete a small project from the planning stage to final data output. You will also learn how to put GPS data into different file formats.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • MAPS 101  Introduction to Mapping and Compassing
  • Your studies will focus on mapping systems. Interpreting maps will be emphasized. You will also develop skills in ground and map measurements.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   MAPS 340   


  • MAPS 301  Cartography
  • You will learn to apply cartographic principles of map design and produce a professional quality map with GIS software.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    MAPS 101 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • MAPS 302  Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the Internet
  • You will develop GIS applications for the World Wide Web.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    GIS 320 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and GIS 321 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and MAPS 301 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • PHOT 101  Aerial Photo Identification and Interpretation
  • You will learn the general principles associated with the use of aerial photographs and the practical application of identification, interpretation, ground truthing and measurements of ground features.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • SYST 401  Remote Sensing 1
  • The course provides an introduction to satellite imagery and image interpretation for natural resource management applications.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   SYST 340   


  • SYST 402  Remote Sensing 2
  • You will learn important image processing and analysis techniques for remotely sensed data. These include geocorrection, enhancements, filtering, vegetation indices, classification and mosaicking. You will also look at radar data with an emphasis on Canada's RADARSAT satellite.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    SYST 401 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • WORK 301  Work Experience
  • You will consolidate your GIS skills in an approved employment setting. You will complete and report the results of a project relating to resource management in the context of your work placement.

    0.0 Credit Units
    120.0 Lab hours

    Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Work Experience -Individual



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