Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists

High School

Take classes in mathematics (including algebra and geometry), biology, geography, and earth science. There is a great deal of reading and report writing in the remote sensing field so be sure to include English and writing classes in your studies. Other useful classes include computer science (including in artificial intelligence) and a foreign language.

Postsecondary Education

Most remote sensing scientists and technologists have a bachelor's degree. The most common degrees in this profession are in such areas as cartography, geography, geology, biology, forestry, or civil engineering. Coursework covers statistics, geometry, matrix algebra, geography, economics, computer science, remote sensing, and mapping, including geographic information systems. Scientists and technologists with a master's degree improve their job prospects. A graduate degree is required to teach in colleges and universities.

Certification

Undergraduate and graduate certificate programs in remote sensing are offered by colleges and universities such as the University of Wyoming, Northeastern University, University of Colorado Boulder, and the University of Connecticut. Programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.

Other Education or Training

Remote sensing scientists and technologists take continuing education courses and attend workshops and conferences to keep up to date with the technological advances and business practices in their field. Professional associations such as the American Association of Geographers, American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing, Ecological Society of America, Geospatial Information and Technology Association, IEEE Computer Society, and SPIE offer educational programs and networking opportunities.