Add a Minor in Geographic Information Science
Geographic Information Science is the study of geography through the lens of digital technology. This field comprises the use of geographic information systems (an assemblage of computer-based technologies designed to facilitate the capture, organization, analysis, and display of geographic data), remote sensing (primarily interpretation of satellite imagery), and spatial modeling (viewing, analyzing, and mapping spatial data) to examine geographic patterns and processes—PLUS research on the nature, development, and use of these tools.
The minor consists of:
- A core course
- A mid-level course in each of three specializations within GISci
- An advanced course that builds on one of the three mid-level courses
Requirements
| Course number | Course Name | Semester Hours |
|---|---|---|
| GEOG:2050 (044:005) | Foundations of GIS | 3 |
| GEOG:3010 (044:118) | Geographic Information Systems and Science | 3 |
| Course number | Course Name | Semester Hours |
|---|---|---|
| GEOG:3500 (044:105) | Introduction to Environmental Remote Sensing | 3 |
| GEOG:3520 (044:110) | GIS for Environmental Studies | 3 |
| GEOG:3540 (044:109) | Introduction to Geographic Visualization | 3 |
| Course number | Course Name | Semester Hours |
|---|---|---|
| GEOG:3570 (044:146) | Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR): Principles and Applications | 3 |
| GEOG:4020 (044:181) | Field Methods: Mapping and Mobile Computing | 3 |
| GEOG:4150 (044:137) | Health and Environment: GIS Applications | 3 |
| GEOG:4500 (044:145) | Advanced Remote Sensing | 4 |
| GEOG:4520 (044:128) | GIS for Environmental Studies: Applications | 3 |
| GEOG:4570 (044:139) | Spatial Analysis and Location Models | 3 |
| GEOG:4580 (044:141) | Introduction to Geographic Databases | 3 |
| GEOG:4650 (044:142) | Simulation in Environmental Geography | 3 |
Please note:
- The number of courses and their levels are the same as most other minors in CLAS. The minor requires a minimum of 15 semester hours in GSS, including 12 semester hours in University of Iowa courses numbered 3000 or above.
- Students must maintain a grade-point average (GPA) of at least 2.00 in the minor. Courses for the minor may not be taken pass/nonpass.
- 3 semester hours of transfer credit will be accepted, while at least 12 semester hours must be taken at the University of Iowa.
- The core course is taught every semester. The mid-level courses are taught every year. Other courses are taught at least every other year, but may be more often.
- Majors in geography may not minor in geographic information science.
It is highly encouraged to contact the department to request an assignment of a minor advisor.
Create your academic path
You'll find degree overviews, requirements, course lists, academic plans, and more to help you plan your education and explore your possibilities.
Current course list
The MyUI Schedule displays registered courses for a particular session and is available to enrolled students. The list view includes course instructors, time and location, and features to drop courses or change sections.