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Geographic Information Systems

  • Minor
  • Erie, Pennsylvania
  • GU Possibilities

    You Will Learn

    The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Minor allows students to develop an in-depth understanding and practice of digital map-making and spatial data analysis. Geospatial skills are sought by employers in the areas of public policy and urban planning, environmental management, public health, industrial logistics and law enforcement. Graduates who are proficient in geospatial management and technologies have a competitive edge in the marketplace.

    You Will Experience

    Practical experiences are a hallmark of the GIS minor as students learn by doing. Experiential learning within the GIS minor include:

    • multiple course projects using GIS to solve a community need
    • an internship at a local non-profit, governmental agency or industry
    • research projects that use mapping and spatial visualization tools.

    You Will Achieve

    Students identify and analyze issues within the local community through mapping and spatial analysis in the fields of:

    • environmental science & engineering
    • criminal justice
    • industrial engineering
    • marketing
    • freshwater and marine biology
    • public health
    • public policy

    You Will Earn

    Median salaries in the field vary depending on the job title and location:

    • Geospatial Information Scientist & Technologist: $88,510
    • Environmental Scientist & Specialist: $63,990

    You Will Study

    Example Course Descriptions

    Students receive preparation through completion of courses and field experiences such as:

    ENV 220 Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

    Geographic Information Systems (GIS) use computers to organize and interpret spatially identified data. GIS systems present data in map form, and allow sophisticated analysis of data to aid in better understanding and interpretation.

    ENV 489 Advanced Environmental GIS

    This course provides students with practice and expertise with more advanced GIS tools using specific examples from the environmental field.  Students will gain skills in surface modeling, spatial data analysis and statistics, remote sensing data, land use planning and data visualization.

    LBST 380 Senior Seminar on GIS and Spatial Justice

    This course immerses students in community-based research, service-learning and community-based mapping that address issues related to poverty, health, race, refugees and environment in Erie, Pennsylvania.

    CRJS 492 Criminal Justice GIS Application and Internship

    This course gives academic credit for work experiences with governmental entities, local agencies and businesses that provide a wide variety of real-world applications of GIS skills and knowledge learned in the classroom.

    Liberal Studies Core

    The Liberal Studies Core Curriculum is one reflection of Gannon University's commitment to its Catholic identity. The Core's design offers students a defined, integrated, shared experience as the foundation for their undergraduate program.

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