EARTH 235 - Geographic Information Systems

Credits: 5
Lecture Contact Hours: 3
Lab Contact Hours: 4
Description: This course covers the principles of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and its applications at the beginner and intermediate levels. GIS topics and skills involve digital mapping, spatial analysis, and data exploration. Applications in GIS include fields in the geosciences, social sciences, politics, humanities, urban planning, natural resources, land management, economics, and much more. The course will utilize modern GIS software that is commonly used by global institutions and industry, and topics include the application of map design, data incorporation, and GIS programming elements. Student requirements include the completion of a GIS project that encompasses data collection, database management, analysis, and presentation.

Prerequisites: None.
Corequisites: None.
Recommended: CIS 115 or Basic Computer Experience

Course Category: Liberal Arts | Science with Lab
This course counts toward Schoolcraft’s General Education Requirements
This course counts toward a Michigan Transfer Agreement General Education Requirement

This Course is Typically Offered: Fall Only
Course Competencies

Explore various GIS software packages.
Utilize ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online interfaces, and other GIS tools and software.
Explain the importance of organized data and computer usage habits in GIS projects.
Manage data and geodatabases.
Evaluate the quality of online data sources and services.
Utilize census and USGS data for GIS projects.
Perform spatial analysis.
Apply cartographic principles.
Create map layouts for print, digital use, and online use.
Explain the various coordinate systems and projections used in maps and cartography.
Edit data layers and tables.
Apply georeferencing techniques for scanned maps and images.
Create combinations of datasets based on spatial relationships.
Conduct queries and selections based on attribute and spatial criteria.
Perform spatial analysis operations.
Investigate patterns and trends in spatial data.
Perform analysis on raster and LiDAR data.
Create applications for collecting field data.
Integrate field data into GIS projects.
Apply GIS for a decision-making process in real-world scenarios.
Recognize the importance of data ethics and privacy.
Create a conference-quality deliverable, such as a poster, presentation, or map, using elements from GIS.