High School
To prepare for this career while in high school, a college preparatory program is recommended. You will need a strong background in science (chemistry, physics, biology), mathematics (algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus), social studies, and especially computer science (including programming and applications), so take as many of these classes as your school offers. In addition, take history classes, which will teach you about different cultures. English courses will help you develop your research and writing skills. Also, consider taking a foreign language. This may help you fulfill some later college requirements as well as give you exposure to new words and names of places and a sense of other cultures.
Postsecondary Training
You will need at least a bachelor’s degree in geography, GIS, planning, engineering, or computer science to work as a GIS specialist. More than 800 colleges and universities offer courses, certificates, and degrees in geographic information science. Visit the University Consortium for Geographic Information Science’s Web site, http://ucgis.org/members, for a list of member schools.
GIS specialists must be proficient with GIS software. One of the most popular software programs for GIS specialists is ArcGIS. Some companies also create proprietary software for their specific needs. In this instance, GIS specialists would learn how to use this software after they are hired.
Certification
Some colleges—such as Arizona State University, Portland State University, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and the University of North Carolina—offer undergraduate and graduate certificate programs in GIS.
Other Education or Training
Many professional associations provide continuing education opportunities for GIS specialists. For example, the Association of American Geographers offers CE classes and workshops online and at its annual conference. Past topics included Let’s Get Physical: Careers in Physical Geography, Career Mentoring from Geographers and GIS Pros, and The Past, Present, and Future of GIScience. URISA offers a variety of CE opportunities, as well as conferences for GIS specialists in public health, transit, and other areas. The American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing also provides CE opportunities. Contact these organizations for more information.
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