in Geographic Information Systems – Applications Specialist
The Geographic Information Systems Application Specialist is the "wizard" who provides technical expertise to produce effective and useful plans and project reports through the applied use of technology.
Program Information
Start Date
September 05, 2023
Domestic Availability
Waitlisted
International Availability
Closed
Program Code
GIA
Delivery
In Person
Credential
Ontario College Graduate Certificate
Academic School
Location
Program Contact
Domestic Tuition
$2573.08 per semester*
Apply Now
Canadian StudentsView Curriculum
September 03, 2024
Domestic Availability
Accepting Applications
International Availability
Accepting Applications
Program Code
GIA
Delivery
In Person
Credential
Ontario College Graduate Certificate
Academic School
Location
Program Contact
View Curriculum
GIS Specialists help manage the world we live in by better understanding it. Through data integration, modeling, analysis and visually communicating ideas, GIS is used to help make informed decisions that affects every aspect of our planet and the life on it.
The program provides a comprehensive understanding of the most used software tools, analysis techniques and data management from cloud and enterprise databases, workflow automation and how to best display your findings. As well, the program focuses on:
- GIS database development and combining data from file, web and open data sources
- Spatial analysis to understand and explore complex problems using all types of data
- GIS data management that focuses on other non-Esri data sources
- Efficiency of tasks through the automation of repetitive workflows using Python and JavaScript libraries
- Creating interactive web-based programs, printed maps and infographics allowing anyone to understand and explore your findings
In addition to acquiring a hands-on foundation using GIS technology tools, you will have many opportunities for team building, project management, problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Since employers are seeking these broad-based transferrable skills, this experience working in technology teams will give you an edge in the workplace
This three-semester program starts in September with a 15-week semester ending in December, continues in January with another 15-week semester ending in April, and concludes with a seven-week semester starting in May and ending in June.
With a well-established reputation in industry for producing high-quality graduates, we are constantly evolving to use the latest software and technology to meet current and future demands of the field. An emphasis on applied and real-world learning, along with best-in-class learning environments and faculty that are well-connected to employers, ensures our graduates find good jobs and rewarding careers.
You'll spend a significant part of your time in the program doing experiential work - putting theory into practice. A co-operative GIS project in the final semester involves cross-disciplinary teams from the GIS Applications Specialist and Cartographic Specialist programs working together on a project for a business, government, or industry client.
Knowing your way around a computer, hardware and software, is definitely high on the list of skills you need to succeed in this field. You should also possess the following:
- interest in ongoing education and upgrading
- creativity
- perseverance (there are many challenges)
- willingness to work hard (a 40 - 60 hour work week in the program)
- energy and persistence
- analytical skills
- problem solving ability
Canadian Businessrecently published an article on "Canada’s Best Jobs." The article states:
"The explosion of big data and the growing need for location-aware hardware and software has led to a boom in the field of mapping," concluding that this field is "…poised for growth, with the highest projected demand among the top 20 jobs."
As a graduate, the future looks bright with your expertise in big data. There's a consistently high placement rate within six to 12 months of graduating from the GIS - Applications Specialist program, and opportunities for advancement. On graduation, when combined with your previous education/work experience, you could work in positions as diverse as GIS programmer/analyst, applications specialist/consultant, ecosystem IT manager, utilities manager, database manager, GIS systems operator, and land information manager. The options for career change are strong. You can go back to your previous profession and apply your GIS studies there, or make a move into a new career.
Plan on spending $1000 for books and supplies.
- Integrate Object-Relational modeling in the design and management of spatial databases for GIS applications.
- Apply qualitative and quantitative methods in the analysis of spatial phenomena within a Geographic Information System.
- Apply principles of database design and development to Relational Database Management Systems in an enterprise environment within a Geographic Information Systems.
- Design, configure and/or customize GIS systems applications or their components, to meet specific and specialized requirements.
- Describe and apply fundamental techniques used to retain a high degree of positional and attribute accuracy while capturing, structuring and displaying geographic data.
- Acquire, interpret, and integrate data from various sources and with different formats and coordinate systems to solve spatial problems.
- Explore, identify and analyze spatial problems, develop solutions and validate results.
- Create maps and visual displays based on recognized design principles that communicate geographic information effectively.
- Communicate complex, technical ideas and information to a given audience using a variety of media.
- Apply database systems to enable the efficient query and analysis of spatial and non-spatial data.
- Handle tools and equipment appropriately, in compliance with industry safety and operating standards, ensuring optimum health and safety of self, team and the environment.
- Work effectively in a collaborative work environment, demonstrating effective teamwork, interpersonal and communication skills.
- Practice to a professional standard, through ethical behaviour, continuous learning and participation in professional organizations.
- Proficiently employ standard software packages used in the GIS and cartographic industries.
- Plan and manage projects, and develop workflows to accomplish specific objectives and tasks.
- Take a challenging computational problem, break it down to its component parts, and solve the problem in an elegant and efficient manner.
- Employ the internet to access various data sources, to publish cartographic products, and distribute GIS data and functionality to a wide audience.
Students applying to Geographic Information Systems – Applications Specialist must meet the following requirements:
- Undergraduate degree or Ontario College diploma in a related field or equivalent
Recommended (but not required for admission)
- Since GIS is a field of study that makes extensive use of computer hardware and software technology, students entering the GIS-Applications Specialist program must be familiar with computers. While not required, advantageous skills include: introductory level statistics, or finite mathematics, database and computer programming experience.
Latest version of windows running on hardware that meets or exceeds the recommended specifications by ESRI for ArcGIS Pro. The latest recommended and optimal configuration can be found on the ArcGIS Pro system requirements page.
In The NewsGeographic Information Systems – Applications Specialist
- Fleming GIS graduate Matt Pietryszyn launches COVID-19 Alerts System to share data with the public
- GIS students gain real world experience through collaborative projects
- FME Desktop Tech Expert Trent Kading reflects on whirlwind time in Fleming’s GIS program
- Fleming College celebrates GIS Day in Peterborough
Transfer Agreements
You may be able to use credits obtained at Fleming College to continue your postsecondary education in pursuit of a degree. The articulation and credit transfer agreements with our partner institutions are summarized here.
Master of Geographic Information Systems Applications
Requirement
- Minimum B cumulative program average.
- Bachelor's degree in any discipline.
- Review the articulation agreement for further details.
- The program is offered as a blended face-to-face or entirely online.
Transfer Credit
- Entry into 2nd-year studies of a 2-year program.
- Refer to the articulation agreement for further details.
To apply please see the EducationPlannerBC website.
For more information
Visit the Vancouver Island University website for further articulation and program information.
See the official articulation agreement.