Abstract

Among dozens of specialized and highly technical educational programs introduced as a result of advances in information technology are full-fledged degrees in GIS. With variants at the associates, bachelors, and masters levels, these extended academic programs intermingle elements of theory with practical or research applications of geographic information system technology. However, while perceived as meeting an important and growing demand, GIS degrees are proliferating without a consensus among educators or practitioners concerning their objectives, content or structure. Some of these programs are defined in terms of geographic information systems (GISys) while others are offered as geographic information science (GISci). Such differences underscore the importance of understanding program goals, content and organization to determine the extent to which they prepare students for the workforce, more advanced study, or careers involving specialized research. This paper offers a first look at GIS degree programs, revealing their major characteristics by emphasis and educational level and identifies the importance of structure and course sequencing considerations in planning new programs.

Author Keywords: Geographic information science; Geographic information systems; Education

Article Outline

1. Introduction

2. Degrees and majors

3. A home for GIS education?

4. Emerging GIS degree programs

4.1. Associates degrees in GISys

4.2. Bachelors degrees in GISys and GISci

4.3. Masters degrees in GISys and GISci

4.4. Interdisciplinary degree programs

5. An agenda for GISys and GISci degrees?

6. Planning considerations for the GIS degree

7. Conclusion

References

Vitae