Twin Cities campus

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Twin Cities Campus

Geographic Information Science M.G.I.S.

Geography, Environment, Society
College of Liberal Arts
Link to a list of faculty for this program.
Contact Information
Department of Geography, 414 Social Sciences Building, 267 19th Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55455 (612-624-1498; fax: 612-624-1044)
Email: mgis@umn.edu
Website: http://cla.umn.edu/mgis
  • Program Type: Master's
  • Requirements for this program are current for Spring 2017
  • Length of program in credits: 35
  • This program does not require summer semesters for timely completion.
  • Degree: Master of Geographic Information Science
Along with the program-specific requirements listed below, please read the General Information section of this website for requirements that apply to all major fields.
The professional master of geographic information science (MGIS), administered by the Department of Geography, provides graduate-level work in the theory, applications, and technology of geographic information science (GIS). Courses for the program are divided into three broad categories. Core courses provide the conceptual and theoretical underpinnings for a comprehensive, well-rounded knowledge of GIS, including an introductory seminar for entering students (GIS 8501). A set of technology courses focuses on specific software and techniques of GIS. Elective courses provide additional breadth to the program by allowing students to take courses related to their area of interest.
Program Delivery
  • via classroom (the majority of instruction is face-to-face)
Prerequisites for Admission
Special Application Requirements:
Applicants must submit an application form; a M.G.I.S. supplemental application form; transcripts; a clearly written personal statement of career interests and goals; and three letters of recommendation from persons familiar with their academic and/or employment background. The GRE is not required. All materials must be submitted by January 30 for fall semester entrance and by September 1 for spring semester entrance.
International applicants must submit score(s) from one of the following tests:
  • TOEFL
    • Internet Based - Total Score: 100
    • Internet Based - Writing Score: 24
    • Internet Based - Reading Score: 22
    • Paper Based - Total Score: 600
  • IELTS
    • Total Score: 7.5
  • MELAB
    • Final score: 84
The preferred English language test is Test of English as Foreign Language.
Key to test abbreviations (TOEFL, IELTS, MELAB).
For an online application or for more information about graduate education admissions, see the General Information section of this website.
Program Requirements
Plan C: Plan C requires 29 major credits and 6 credits outside the major. There is no final exam.
This program may be completed with a minor.
Use of 4xxx courses toward program requirements is permitted under certain conditions with adviser approval.
A minimum GPA of 3.00 is required for students to remain in good standing.
At least 2 semesters must be completed before filing a Degree Program Form.
Students must complete a professional portfolio, and a set of concluding experiences including a public presentation, an exit survey, and a final meeting with an advisor.
Required Courses
GEOG 5561 - Principles of Geographic Information Science (4.0 cr)
or FNRM 5131 - Geographical Information Systems (GIS) for Natural Resources (4.0 cr)
GIS 8501 - GIS Project Management and Professional Development (3.0 cr)
GIS 5571 - ArcGIS I (3.0 cr)
GIS 5572 - ArcGIS II (3.0 cr)
Advanced GIS Focus Courses
5xxx-level Requirement
Take 3 credits from the following:
GEOG 5562 - GIS Development Practicum (3.0 cr)
GEOG 5563 - Advanced Geographic Information Science (3.0 cr)
ESPM 5295 - GIS in Environmental Science and Management (4.0 cr)
FNRM 5462 - Advanced Remote Sensing and Geospatial Analysis (3.0 cr)
GIS 5577 - Spatial Database Design and Administration (3.0 cr)
GIS 5574 - Web GIS and Services (3.0 cr)
GIS 5578 - GIS Programming (3.0 cr)
CSCI 5715 - From GPS, Google Maps, and Uber to Spatial Data Science (3.0 cr)
8xxx-Level Requirement
Take 3 credits from the following:
GEOG 8290 - Seminar in GIS and Cartography (3.0 cr)
GEOG 8291 - Seminar in GIS, Technology, and Society (3.0 cr)
GEOG 8292 - Seminar in GIS: Spatial Analysis and Modeling (3.0 cr)
GIS 8990 - Research Problems in GIS (1.0-6.0 cr)
FNRM 8205 - Research Problems: Spatial Data Analysis (1.0-5.0 cr)
CSCI 8715 - Spatial Data Science Research (3.0 cr)
Electives
Take remaining credits from the following list to meet the 35-credit minimum. At least 6 elective credits must be other than those with GEOG or GIS course designators.
Take 16 or more credit(s) from the following:
· GEOG 3362 {Inactive} (3.0 cr)
· GEOG 5511 - Principles of Cartography (4.0 cr)
· GEOG 5531 - Numerical Spatial Analysis (4.0 cr)
· GEOG 5562 - GIS Development Practicum (3.0 cr)
· GEOG 5563 - Advanced Geographic Information Science (3.0 cr)
· GEOG 5564 - Urban Geographic Information Science and Analysis (3.0 cr)
· GEOG 5565 {Inactive} (3.0 cr)
· GEOG 8280 - Biogeography (3.0 cr)
· GEOG 8290 - Seminar in GIS and Cartography (3.0 cr)
· GEOG 8291 - Seminar in GIS, Technology, and Society (3.0 cr)
· GEOG 8292 - Seminar in GIS: Spatial Analysis and Modeling (3.0 cr)
· GIS 5530 - GIS Internship (1.0-3.0 cr)
· GIS 5555 - Basic Spatial Analysis (3.0 cr)
· GIS 5573 - Introduction to Digital Mapping: ArcGIS Basics (2.0 cr)
· GIS 5574 - Web GIS and Services (3.0 cr)
· GIS 5575 {Inactive} (2.0 cr)
· GIS 5577 - Spatial Database Design and Administration (3.0 cr)
· GIS 5578 - GIS Programming (3.0 cr)
· GIS 5590 {Inactive} (3.0 cr)
· GIS 8990 - Research Problems in GIS (1.0-6.0 cr)
· CI 5365 - Contemporary Software Development Issues and Tools (3.0 cr)
· CSCI 4041 - Algorithms and Data Structures (4.0 cr)
· CSCI 4131 - Internet Programming (3.0 cr)
· CSCI 4707 - Practice of Database Systems (3.0 cr)
· CSCI 5715 - From GPS, Google Maps, and Uber to Spatial Data Science (3.0 cr)
· CSCI 8715 - Spatial Data Science Research (3.0 cr)
· ESPM 5031 - Applied Global Positioning Systems for Geographic Information Systems (3.0 cr)
· ESPM 5295 - GIS in Environmental Science and Management (4.0 cr)
· FNRM 5114 - Hydrology and Watershed Management (3.0 cr)
· FNRM 5228 - Advanced Topics in Assessment and Modeling of Forests (3.0 cr)
· FNRM 5262 - Remote Sensing and Geospatial Analysis of Natural Resources and Environment (3.0 cr)
· FNRM 5462 - Advanced Remote Sensing and Geospatial Analysis (3.0 cr)
· FNRM 8205 - Research Problems: Spatial Data Analysis (1.0-5.0 cr)
· PA 5231 - Transit Planning and Management (3.0 cr)
· VMED 5181 - Spatial Analysis in Infectious Disease Epidemiology (3.0 cr)
 
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GEOG 5561 - Principles of Geographic Information Science
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Course Equivalencies: Geog 3561/ Geog 5561
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Introduction to the study of geographic information systems (GIS) for geography and non-geography students. Topics include GIS application domains, data models and sources, analysis methods and output techniques. Lectures, reading, and hands-on experience with GIS software. prereq: grad
FNRM 5131 - Geographical Information Systems (GIS) for Natural Resources
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Course Equivalencies: FNRM 3131/FNRM 5131/FR 3131/
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Every Fall
Geographic information systems (GIS), focusing on spatial data development and analysis in the science and management of natural resources. Basic data structures, sources, collection, and quality; geodesy and map projections; spatial and tabular data analyses; digital elevation data and terrain analyses; cartographic modeling and layout. Lab exercises provide practical experiences complementing theory covered in lecture. prereq: Grad student or instr consent
GIS 8501 - GIS Project Management and Professional Development
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall
Project management/professional development. Portfolio creation, career exploration, degree program planning. GIS project management through lectures, class exercises, guest speakers. prereq: MGIS student or instr consent
GIS 5571 - ArcGIS I
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
First of a two-course series focusing on ArcGIS Desktop. Overview of ArcGIS system and its use for spatial data processing. Data capture, editing, geometric transformations, map projections, topology, Python scripting, and map production. prereq: [GEOG 5561 or equiv, status in MGIS program, familiarity with computer operating systems] or instr consent
GIS 5572 - ArcGIS II
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Continues GIS 5571. Raster analysis, dynamic segmentation, geometric networks, geocoding, Python scripting, and data interoperability. Substantial projects include map and poster design and production. prereq: [5571, [GEOG 5561 or equiv], in MGIS program] or instr consent
GEOG 5562 - GIS Development Practicum
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Prerequisites: GIS 5571 or #
Typically offered: Periodic Fall
Algorithms/data structures for digital cartographic data, topological relationships, surface modeling, and interpolation. Map projections, geometric transformations, numerical generalization, raster/vector processing. Hands-on experience with software packages. prereq: GIS 5571 or instr consent
GEOG 5563 - Advanced Geographic Information Science
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Advanced study of geographic information systems (GIS). Topics include spatial data models, topology, data encoding, data quality, database management, spatial analysis tools and visualization techniques. Hands-on experience using an advanced vector GIS package. prereq: B or better in 3561 or 5561 or instr consent
ESPM 5295 - GIS in Environmental Science and Management
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Every Fall
Application of geographic information science and technologies (GIS) in complex environmental problems. Students gain experience in spatial data collection, database development, and spatial analysis, including GNSS and field attribute collection, image interpretation, and existing data fusion, raster/vector data integration and analysis, information extraction from LiDAR data, DEM conditioning and hydrologic analysis, neighborhood analysis, bulk processing and automation, and scripting. Problems vary depending on topics, often with extra-University partners. *Please note that students should have completed a semester-long, introductory lab/lecture GIS course at the graduate or undergraduate level before enrolling in this course, e.g., FNRM 5131. We do not require any given course because students come from varied universities and backgrounds. That said, we assume a knowledge commensurate with a comprehensive introductory course. Students seeking a first course are directed to FNRM 5131. If you have questions regarding your capabilities, please contact the instructor prior to enrolling.
FNRM 5462 - Advanced Remote Sensing and Geospatial Analysis
Credits: 3.0 [max 6.0]
Course Equivalencies: FNRM 3462/FNRM 5462
Typically offered: Every Spring
This course builds on the introductory remote sensing class, FNRM 3262/5262. It provides a detailed treatment of advanced remote sensing and geospatial theory and methods including Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA), lidar processing and derivatives, advanced classification algorithms (including Random Forest, Neural Networks, Support Vector Machines), biophysics of remote sensing, measurements and sensors, data transforms, data fusion, multi-temporal analysis, and empirical modeling. In-class and independent lab activities will be used to apply the course topics to real-world problems. Prior coursework in Geographic Information Systems, remote sensing, and statistics is necessary. Prereq: grad student or instr consent
GIS 5577 - Spatial Database Design and Administration
Credits: 3.0 [max 1.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
This semi-synchronous online graduate level course is aimed at students who have a foundation in GIS and spatial analysis methods and applications, and are interested in expanding their knowledge into the area spatial database design and spatial analysis. The course covers the following topics: 1) SQL and spatial-SQL queries, database design, and ArcServer Administration. This is an applied course and the objective is to introduce the fundamentals of databases, learn about how spatial data is treated into databases and apply spatial analysis methods. Students taking the class will have moderate to advanced understanding of GIS classes, but do not have much exposure to databases.
GIS 5574 - Web GIS and Services
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
Plan, design, develop, publish web-based GIS solution. Build websites, prepare data for web. Commercial software, Open Source software, volunteer geographic information, open GIS standards/developing web GIS application. Hands-on experience with variety of web GIS technologies/software. prereq: [GEOG 5561 or equiv, in MGIS program] or instr consent
GIS 5578 - GIS Programming
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
This Python-focused GIS course is intended for students who have some Python programming experience, or have experience with other programming language(s) and knowledge transferable to Python. Following a review of Python basics, students will use Python modules for spatial data management, mapping, and analysis, including ArcGIS's ArcPy package; work with classes in Python; develop custom modules; and create development environments. A semester-long programming project applying Python skills to a GIS challenge is a significant component of the course. prereq: instr consent
CSCI 5715 - From GPS, Google Maps, and Uber to Spatial Data Science
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Spring Even Year
Spatial databases and querying, spatial big data mining, spatial data-structures and algorithms, positioning, earth observation, cartography, and geo-visulization. Trends such as spatio-temporal, and geospatial cloud analytics, etc. prereq: Familiarity with Java, C++, or Python
GEOG 8290 - Seminar in GIS and Cartography
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Periodic Fall & Spring
Selected concepts/methods. Topics, which vary yearly, include spatial analysis methods in GIS; advanced visualization methods; data quality and error propagation in GIS; generalization methods in GIS and cartography; role of time in GIS; interactive/animated cartography; incorporation of uncertainty. prereq: instr consent
GEOG 8291 - Seminar in GIS, Technology, and Society
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Periodic Fall & Spring
Relationships between practice of GIS and political, economic, legal, institutional structures of society. Effects of GIS on society. Nontraditional spaces in GIS. GIS and local decision making. Privacy issues. prereq: instr consent
GEOG 8292 - Seminar in GIS: Spatial Analysis and Modeling
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Spring Even Year
Overview of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial analysis/modeling of human/environmental systems. Spatial statistics, modeling spatiotemporal processes, simulation techniques, visualization, complex systems/complexity. Guidance in thesis/dissertation research. prereq: 3511 [or equiv statistics course], [3561 or 5561 or equiv intro GIS course] or instr consent
GIS 8990 - Research Problems in GIS
Credits: 1.0 -6.0 [max 6.0]
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall, Spring & Summer
Project of sufficient scope/complexity to document student's ability to apply spatial analysis and visualization techniques to real-world problems. Supervised by faculty member. prereq: MGIS student, instr consent
FNRM 8205 - Research Problems: Spatial Data Analysis
Credits: 1.0 -5.0 [max 10.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall, Spring & Summer
Independent research under faculty guidance. prereq: instr consent
CSCI 8715 - Spatial Data Science Research
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Periodic Fall & Spring
Motivation, models of spatial information, querying spatial data, processing strategies for spatial queries, multi-dimensional storage/access methods, spatial graph datasets, spatial data mining, trends (e.g., spatio-temporal databases, mobile objects, raster databases), research literature, how to pursue research. prereq: 4707 or 5707 or 5715 or GIS 5571 or GIS 5573
GEOG 5511 - Principles of Cartography
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Course Equivalencies: Geog 3511/Geog 5511
Typically offered: Every Fall
GEOG 3511/5511 is a basic introduction to cartography?the art, science, and technology of maps and map making. Our primary emphasis will be on map making, with lesser emphasis on cartographic research and the history of cartography. Lectures will focus on modern cartographic design principles, how they were developed, and how they might be changing. Lab assignments help develop skills using digital tools for producing effective maps. The course has several specific learning objectives: ? use software to create maps that communicate their subjects appropriately and effectively using sound cartographic design principles ? acquire or produce a base map that is appropriate in scale, projection, and generalization ? select and aggregate data appropriately to represent on a map using a suitable symbolization strategy ? gain an understanding of how current changes in technology impact maps and map making ? understand how fundamental design decisions might differ for printed maps and web/mobile maps ? understand how contemporary GIS and cartography are interrelated, including the use of GIS becoming ubiquitous and map making becoming increasingly available to anyone ? gain an appreciation for the 3,500+ year history of maps!
GEOG 5531 - Numerical Spatial Analysis
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Course Equivalencies: Geog 3531/5531
Typically offered: Every Fall
Applied/theoretical aspects of geographical quantitative methods for spatial analysis. Emphasizes analysis of geographical data for spatial problem solving in human/physical areas.
GEOG 5562 - GIS Development Practicum
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Prerequisites: GIS 5571 or #
Typically offered: Periodic Fall
Algorithms/data structures for digital cartographic data, topological relationships, surface modeling, and interpolation. Map projections, geometric transformations, numerical generalization, raster/vector processing. Hands-on experience with software packages. prereq: GIS 5571 or instr consent
GEOG 5563 - Advanced Geographic Information Science
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Advanced study of geographic information systems (GIS). Topics include spatial data models, topology, data encoding, data quality, database management, spatial analysis tools and visualization techniques. Hands-on experience using an advanced vector GIS package. prereq: B or better in 3561 or 5561 or instr consent
GEOG 5564 - Urban Geographic Information Science and Analysis
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Periodic Fall
Core concepts in urban geographic information science including sources for urban geographical and attribute data (including census data), urban data structures (focusing on the TIGER data structure), urban spatial analyses (including location-allocation models), geodemographic analysis, network analysis, and the display of urban data. prereq: 3561 or 5561
GEOG 8280 - Biogeography
Credits: 3.0 [max 9.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
Forest dynamics, dendrochronology, tree rings and climate, environmental disturbance, paleobiogeography, field/lab methods in biogeography. prereq: instr consent
GEOG 8290 - Seminar in GIS and Cartography
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Periodic Fall & Spring
Selected concepts/methods. Topics, which vary yearly, include spatial analysis methods in GIS; advanced visualization methods; data quality and error propagation in GIS; generalization methods in GIS and cartography; role of time in GIS; interactive/animated cartography; incorporation of uncertainty. prereq: instr consent
GEOG 8291 - Seminar in GIS, Technology, and Society
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Periodic Fall & Spring
Relationships between practice of GIS and political, economic, legal, institutional structures of society. Effects of GIS on society. Nontraditional spaces in GIS. GIS and local decision making. Privacy issues. prereq: instr consent
GEOG 8292 - Seminar in GIS: Spatial Analysis and Modeling
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Spring Even Year
Overview of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial analysis/modeling of human/environmental systems. Spatial statistics, modeling spatiotemporal processes, simulation techniques, visualization, complex systems/complexity. Guidance in thesis/dissertation research. prereq: 3511 [or equiv statistics course], [3561 or 5561 or equiv intro GIS course] or instr consent
GIS 5530 - GIS Internship
Credits: 1.0 -3.0 [max 6.0]
Grading Basis: S-N only
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Practical hands-on experience using GIS to solve problems in a real-world work environment. prereq: instr consent, strong GIS/mapping skills
GIS 5555 - Basic Spatial Analysis
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
How to use spatial data to answer questions on a wide array of social, natural, and information science issues. Exploratory data analysis/visualization. Spatial autocorrelation analysis/regression. prereq: [STAT 3001 or equiv, MGIS student] or instr consent
GIS 5573 - Introduction to Digital Mapping: ArcGIS Basics
Credits: 2.0 [max 2.0]
Course Equivalencies: Geog 3573/GIS 5573
Prerequisites: [GEOG 5561 or equiv, in MGIS program] or #
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall
Desktop mapping functions using ArcGIS software. Application of systems to display/analysis of geographical data. prereq: [GEOG 5561 or equiv, in MGIS program] or instr consent
GIS 5574 - Web GIS and Services
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
Plan, design, develop, publish web-based GIS solution. Build websites, prepare data for web. Commercial software, Open Source software, volunteer geographic information, open GIS standards/developing web GIS application. Hands-on experience with variety of web GIS technologies/software. prereq: [GEOG 5561 or equiv, in MGIS program] or instr consent
GIS 5577 - Spatial Database Design and Administration
Credits: 3.0 [max 1.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
This semi-synchronous online graduate level course is aimed at students who have a foundation in GIS and spatial analysis methods and applications, and are interested in expanding their knowledge into the area spatial database design and spatial analysis. The course covers the following topics: 1) SQL and spatial-SQL queries, database design, and ArcServer Administration. This is an applied course and the objective is to introduce the fundamentals of databases, learn about how spatial data is treated into databases and apply spatial analysis methods. Students taking the class will have moderate to advanced understanding of GIS classes, but do not have much exposure to databases.
GIS 5578 - GIS Programming
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
This Python-focused GIS course is intended for students who have some Python programming experience, or have experience with other programming language(s) and knowledge transferable to Python. Following a review of Python basics, students will use Python modules for spatial data management, mapping, and analysis, including ArcGIS's ArcPy package; work with classes in Python; develop custom modules; and create development environments. A semester-long programming project applying Python skills to a GIS challenge is a significant component of the course. prereq: instr consent
GIS 8990 - Research Problems in GIS
Credits: 1.0 -6.0 [max 6.0]
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall, Spring & Summer
Project of sufficient scope/complexity to document student's ability to apply spatial analysis and visualization techniques to real-world problems. Supervised by faculty member. prereq: MGIS student, instr consent
CI 5365 - Contemporary Software Development Issues and Tools
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Prerequisites: Familiar with standard computer/Internet operations
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Every Summer
Software used in multimedia design/development. Uses of the software, intricacies of interface, relevant programming principles. Introduction to developing multimedia applications. prereq: Familiar with standard computer/Internet operations
CSCI 4041 - Algorithms and Data Structures
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Course Equivalencies: CSci 4041/CSci 4041H
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Rigorous analysis of algorithms/implementation. Algorithm analysis, sorting algorithms, binary trees, heaps, priority queues, heapsort, balanced binary search trees, AVL trees, hash tables and hashing, graphs, graph traversal, single source shortest path, minimum cost spanning trees. prereq: [(1913 or 1933) and 2011] or instr consent; cannot be taken for grad CSci cr
CSCI 4131 - Internet Programming
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: CSci 4131/CSci 5131
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Issues in internet programming. Internet history, architecture/protocols, network programming, Web architecture. Client-server architectures and protocols. Client-side programming, server-side programming, dynamic HTML, Java programming, object-oriented architecture/design, distributed object computing, Web applications. prereq: 4061, 4211 recommended, cannot be taken for grad CSci cr
CSCI 4707 - Practice of Database Systems
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: CSci 4707/CSci 5707/INET 4707
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Concepts, conceptual data models, case studies, common data manipulation languages, logical data models, database design, facilities for database security/integrity, applications. prereq: 4041 or instr consent
CSCI 5715 - From GPS, Google Maps, and Uber to Spatial Data Science
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Spring Even Year
Spatial databases and querying, spatial big data mining, spatial data-structures and algorithms, positioning, earth observation, cartography, and geo-visulization. Trends such as spatio-temporal, and geospatial cloud analytics, etc. prereq: Familiarity with Java, C++, or Python
CSCI 8715 - Spatial Data Science Research
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Periodic Fall & Spring
Motivation, models of spatial information, querying spatial data, processing strategies for spatial queries, multi-dimensional storage/access methods, spatial graph datasets, spatial data mining, trends (e.g., spatio-temporal databases, mobile objects, raster databases), research literature, how to pursue research. prereq: 4707 or 5707 or 5715 or GIS 5571 or GIS 5573
ESPM 5031 - Applied Global Positioning Systems for Geographic Information Systems
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: ESPM 3031/ESPM 5031
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Every Spring
GPS principles, operations, techniques to improve accuracy. Datum, projections, and coordinate systems. Differential correction, accuracy assessments discussed/applied in lab exercises. Code/carrier phase GPS used in exercises. GPS handheld units, PDA based ArcPad/GPS equipment. Transferring field data to/from desktop systems, integrating GPS data with GIS. prereq: Grad student or instr consent
ESPM 5295 - GIS in Environmental Science and Management
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Every Fall
Application of geographic information science and technologies (GIS) in complex environmental problems. Students gain experience in spatial data collection, database development, and spatial analysis, including GNSS and field attribute collection, image interpretation, and existing data fusion, raster/vector data integration and analysis, information extraction from LiDAR data, DEM conditioning and hydrologic analysis, neighborhood analysis, bulk processing and automation, and scripting. Problems vary depending on topics, often with extra-University partners. *Please note that students should have completed a semester-long, introductory lab/lecture GIS course at the graduate or undergraduate level before enrolling in this course, e.g., FNRM 5131. We do not require any given course because students come from varied universities and backgrounds. That said, we assume a knowledge commensurate with a comprehensive introductory course. Students seeking a first course are directed to FNRM 5131. If you have questions regarding your capabilities, please contact the instructor prior to enrolling.
FNRM 5114 - Hydrology and Watershed Management
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: FNRM 3114/FNRM 5114
Typically offered: Every Fall
Hydrologic cycle and water processes in upland/riparian systems. Applications of hydrological concepts to evaluate impacts of forest and land management activities on water yield, streamflow, groundwater erosion, sedimentation, and water quality. Concepts, principles, and applications of riparian/watershed management. Regional/national/global examples. Forest ecosystems.
FNRM 5228 - Advanced Topics in Assessment and Modeling of Forests
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Fall Even Year
Application of recently developed mathematics, computer science, and statistics methodologies to natural resource functioning, management, and use problems. Specific topics, software, and methodologies vary. prereq: 3218, Math 1272, Stat 5021
FNRM 5262 - Remote Sensing and Geospatial Analysis of Natural Resources and Environment
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: FNRM 3262/FNRM 5262
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Introductory principles and techniques of remote sensing and geospatial analysis applied to mapping and monitoring land and water resources from local to global scales. Examples of applications include: Land cover mapping and change detection, forest and natural resource inventory, water quality monitoring, and global change analysis. The lab provides hands-on experience working with satellite, aircraft, and drone imagery, and image processing methods and software. Prior coursework in Geographic Information Systems and introductory Statistics is recommended. prereq: Grad student or instr consent
FNRM 5462 - Advanced Remote Sensing and Geospatial Analysis
Credits: 3.0 [max 6.0]
Course Equivalencies: FNRM 3462/FNRM 5462
Typically offered: Every Spring
This course builds on the introductory remote sensing class, FNRM 3262/5262. It provides a detailed treatment of advanced remote sensing and geospatial theory and methods including Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA), lidar processing and derivatives, advanced classification algorithms (including Random Forest, Neural Networks, Support Vector Machines), biophysics of remote sensing, measurements and sensors, data transforms, data fusion, multi-temporal analysis, and empirical modeling. In-class and independent lab activities will be used to apply the course topics to real-world problems. Prior coursework in Geographic Information Systems, remote sensing, and statistics is necessary. Prereq: grad student or instr consent
FNRM 8205 - Research Problems: Spatial Data Analysis
Credits: 1.0 -5.0 [max 10.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall, Spring & Summer
Independent research under faculty guidance. prereq: instr consent
PA 5231 - Transit Planning and Management
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: CEGE 5213/PA 5231
Typically offered: Fall Even Year
Principles/techniques related to implementing transit systems. Historical perspective, characteristics of travel demand, demand management. Evaluating/benchmarking system performance. Transit-oriented development. Analyzing alternative transit modes. System design/finance. Case studies, field projects. prereq: Grad student or instr consent
VMED 5181 - Spatial Analysis in Infectious Disease Epidemiology
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: OPT No Aud
Typically offered: Every Spring
Spatial distribution of disease events. Exposures/outcomes. Factors that determine where diseases occur. Analyzing spatial disease data in public health, geography, epidemiology. Focuses on human/animal health related examples. prereq: Intro to epidemiology, statistics,