Building on NC State's strengths in technology, computational methods, and geographic information systems (GIS), this program provides professional, graduate-level academic preparation in the advanced application of GIS technologies to a wide spectrum of disciplines, including economics, public health, emergency planning and response, land use planning, environmental resources, etc. The certificate is available as a standalone program and also available to current NC State graduate students enrolled in other Masters and PhD programs.  

Please visit our certificate program website for more information. 

Learning Outcomes and Degree Requirements

The Geographic Information Systems Graduate Certificate requires 12 credit hours. Six credit hours are core required courses and 6 hours of electives tailored to student interests. The focus is on theory and applications of GIS and fundamental skill building. A final GPA of 3.0 or greater is required at the time of graduation to receive the certificate. Specific course requirements are listed on the program website.

Careers

The demand for geospatial scientists across a wide range of disciplines and employment sectors continues to increase the options for GIS careers. Our students go on to enter positions as GIS technicians and analysts, consultants, and many other disciplinary positions where GIS skills are highly sought. Students currently working in the geospatial field also have found success transitioning to new positions and/or higher salaries within their current organizations upon completion of the certificate. 

Additional Information

Up to 12 credit hours of B or better grades from the Certificate can transfer into the MGIST program if/when a student applies and is accepted into that program.

Admissions Requirements

Admission to the certificate program requires a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with at least a 3.0 GPA. Students with less than a 3.0 undergraduate GPA may still be considered for admission based on the remaining criteria or may be recommended to take one of our graduate courses as a non-degree student first. These determinations will be made on a case-by-case basis. All applicants must submit:

• Transcript showing Bachelor's degree conferred
• A clear and concise personal statement/statement of interest
• A resume/CV

Current NC State students in other degree programs may also be eligible to earn the certificate. These students should discuss the possibility with their program advisors and contact the Center for Geospatial Analytics to complete an internal application no later than after completing the first course they wish to count towards the program. 

Applicant Information

• Delivery Method: On-Campus, Online, Hybrid
• Entrance Exam: None
• Interview Required: None

Application Deadlines

• Fall: April 15 (US); March 1 (Intl)
• Spring: October 15 (US); July 15 (Intl)

Plan Requirements

Elective Courses

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Other courses not listed can be approved as an elective upon consultation with an advisor.

Faculty