This Certificate Program is designed to benefit students who seek to enhance their skills in geospatial technologies, especially Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and satellite remote sensing. Students will be exposed to standard software tools used in the industry including ArcGIS, ERDAS IMAGINE, and Idrisi, as well as image data from a range of optical and microwave orbiting satellites. A full suite of geospatial software is available in the Department of Geography and Regional Studies (GEG) GIS lab at the University of Miami. Students who earn the Certificate will enhance their employment prospects and/or advance their careers in geospatial technology, particularly in job settings that stress the use of satellite remote sensing and vector-based GIS.

GEOSPATIAL TECHNOLOGY

What is Geospatial Technology?

Geospatial technology involves a suite of computer-based approaches to manage relational databases, digital maps, data from global position systems, and overhead imagery to organize, display, and analyze spatial attribute data related to the environment, business, planning, health care, homeland security and infrastructure.

Who uses Geospatial Technology?

Geospatial technology is used extensively in the US Federal Government, the private sector, and international institutions such as United Nations and the World Bank. Geospatial technology is also used in developing countries to optimize scarce resources for environmental management. Private voluntary and non-governmental institutions that work on humanitarian and environmental issues have also developed significant capabilities in the use of this technology.

Applications of Geospatial Technology

All issues that involve monitoring of the earth’s surface or near surface environment or processes, or involve exploitation of the earth’s resources can benefit from geospatial technology. Some examples are available on our web sites: www.geography.miami.edu and www.geodesy.miami.edu.

Jobs in Geospatial Technology

Many employers are looking for people who have these skills. Starting salaries typically range from $50-80K in the public sector (e.g., working for local governments) for experienced GIS analysts. Increasing numbers of job search engines (e.g., GIScafe, GISjobs, GIS Jobs Clearinghouse, etc.) post opportunities for geospatial professionals.