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Certificate in Geographic Information Systems

Department of Physics, Geosciences & Astronomy

College of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

Certificate in Geographic Information Systems

Department of Physics, Geosciences & Astronomy

College of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

On-Campus

Program

18 Credit Hours

to Graduate

Full-Time, In-State Tuition

$5,010 Per Semester

Free Books

for All Students

Transform Your Community with Geographic Information Systems

Geographic information systems (GIS) has a wide range of applications including urban planning, disaster response, and transportation planning. GIS is a computer-based system that can be used to store, analyze, and display spatial data. It can help users understand patterns, relationships, and geographic context. EKU’s certificate in GIS prepares you for a variety of challenging and rewarding career opportunities. Learn to analyze and map geographic data and produce 3D digital imaging, reports, charts, tables, overlays, and applications. Gain hands-on experience focused on real-world problems and gain the experience needed to lead future generations of geographers, astronomers, environmental geoscientists, physicists, and engineers.

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Career Outlook


Although employment growth for geography-related fields is projected to show little change until 2032, about 100 openings for geographers are projected each year, on average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Local, state, and federal governments need GIS technicians in several different agencies: the Department of Defense, the Army, the Air Force, and the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

– U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

A GIS certificate can open the door to a wide variety of career options across the industry spectrum.

Job Titles Include:

  • Geoscientist
  • Surveyor
  • Surveying and Mapping Technician
  • Urban and Regional Planner
  • Hydrologist

EKU graduates of the Department of Physics, Geosciences, and Astronomy work in various fields and positions.

Employers Include:

  • NASA
  • Rockwell International
  • Clark County, Kentucky Public Schools
  • Danville Independent Schools

The Office of Academic and Career Services is a one-stop shop for all your career and professional development needs.

Services Include:

  • Creating/updating your resume and cover letter
  • Interviewing tips and coaching
  • Career documents review
  • Job search

Why EKU?

  • Free textbooks through EKU BookSmart
  • No application fee
  • Reduced tuition for active-duty military members and their spouses
  • Fast-track opportunities for students with 80 or more credit hours

Curriculum & Admission


Learn essential skills for today’s GIS careers. Our programs are made up of high-quality courses and taught by experienced professors. EKU’s curriculum blends academic and professional preparation through course topics such as GIS cartography, remote sensing, geographic data and techniques, geographic imagery, computer aided drafting (CAD), plane surveying, disaster resilience and exercises, statistical reasoning and applied statistics, web programming, Visual Basic programming, and object-oriented programming.

A minimum of 18 credits are required to graduate.

View the degree requirements:

Please review the admissions requirements before applying for this or any program. If you have questions about the program or are planning to register for classes, please speak to the program advisor.

All applicants must provide an application and evidence of appropriate scholastic achievement through prior educational experience.

Please note that certain degree programs have special admission requirements. Admission to the University does not mean automatic admission to all degree programs.

The completed application and all required supporting documentation must be received by the University no later than:

• August 1 for fall enrollment
• December 1 for spring enrollment
• May 1 for summer enrollment

To apply for undergraduate admission to Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), submit an application at apply.eku.edu and submit your materials noted below electronically or by mail to:

Office of Admissions
Eastern Kentucky University
Whitlock Bldg. 112, CPO 54
521 Lancaster Avenue
Richmond, KY 40475-3154.

Enrolling & Advising Information


EKU’s College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics is committed to delivering high-quality enrollment and academic advising for our students. We strive to create an atmosphere of mutual trust and meaningful engagement to help students reach their academic goals and have a rewarding educational experience.

Interested in enrolling? Reach out to our college enrollment counselor today.

Photo of Aida Bermudez

Aida Bermudez

College Enrollment Counselor

859-622-2902
aida.bermudez@eku.edu


Student Stories & Features


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News & Updates

Students Take Their Research to Harvard, Representing EKU at the National Level

In January, six Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) students traveled to Harvard University and presented their research at the National Collegiate Research Conference (NCRC). This marked the second time students from EKU attended the conference, following recommendations from faculty mentors. “Our students being accepted to showcase their research at the NCRC—at Harvard—shows the massive potential of […]

College of STEM Honors Mr. Mark Sweet

A two-time Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) graduate, Mr. Mark Sweet, was named the 2024 College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Award recipient. The college’s highest honor is presented to individuals who have made impactful contributions to the college. On receiving the College of STEM award, Mr. Sweet had this to say, “Considering the substantial number […]

EKU Student Spotlight: Esteban Castro Platonoff

Mr. Esteban Castro Platonoff was born and raised in Latacunga, Ecuador, in an adventurous family with his dad Diego, mom Carla, and younger brother Felipe.  When asked why he choose to attend Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) he said: “My family and I visited EKU in 2017, and I was amazed with how beautiful the campus is.  […]

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Contact Information

Department of Physics, Geosciences & Astronomy

Science Building
Room 3140
533 John Hanlon Drive
Richmond, KY 40475

859-622-1521
pgas@eku.edu