The Bachelor of Science degree in Geographic Information Science and Planning (GISP) combines the use of geospatial technologies for spatial analysis with sustainable community and environmental planning processes to provide graduates with professional career opportunities. Geospatial Scientists and Urban/Environmental Planner positions exist in all levels of industry, government, and the non-profit sectors. Graduates leave the program with experience and education in a broad range of technical skills using geospatial technologies for applications such as climate action planning, community sustainability and resiliency, and environmental mitigation and regulation. Beyond the program’s core environmental and community applications of geospatial technology, students find GISP to be a strong second major because of the broad use of geographic information science across other diverse disciplines, such as the natural sciences, the social sciences, business analytics, agriculture, and cultural resource management.
Students interested in Geospatial Information Science and Technology may select courses in this area that underlie emerging and fast-changing geospatial hardware, software, and infrastructure in our society such as geographic information systems (GIS), global-positioning systems (GPS), remote sensing, small uncrewed aerial systems (sUAS or drones), and mobile/web spatial technologies. Internship opportunities to apply these concepts are required and facilitated. These courses are referenced to competencies identified in the U.S. Department of Labor Geospatial Competency Model, as well as the University Consortium for Geographic Information Science (UCGIS) Geographic Information Science and Technology Body of Knowledge. Professions for graduates include Geospatial Analyst and/or Specialist, Cartographer, Geospatial Intelligence Analyst, Transportation/ Environmental Planner, and Development Specialist.
Students interested in Environmental Planning would be prepared for leadership positions as professional planners within the traditional paradigm of community planning and the emerging paradigm of sustainable development and resiliency. These courses emphasize conceptual knowledge, experiential learning, ethics, regulatory frameworks, civic engagement, local culture awareness, and innovative geovisualization and spatial analysis techniques. These courses would prepare students to assist diverse communities and organizations to identify and propose solutions to a wide variety of environmental and community issues. Professions for graduates include Environmental/Sustainability Planner, Urban and Community Planner, Transportation Planning Specialist, Cartographer, Water Resource Manager, and Geospatial Analysts and Specialists. A professional internship is required. Students can arrange their own internship for credit with an appropriate organization or can take advantage of the longstanding relationships developed by the program.