Fleming College

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, like the full-time option, 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

Classes are delivered at the same time as students attending the in-person program. In addition to acquiring a hands-on, firm 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.

Within this unique online option, you can study part-time from anywhere – giving you greater flexibility in your personal and professional life. Please see curriculum for detailed information on courses and semesters.

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. The part-time online option offers greater flexibility for students who may be currently working full- or part-time.

You'll spend a significant part of your time in the program doing experiential work - putting theory into practice. A collaborative 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.

You will work on the collaborative project during the final four months of the program. During the last two months, you will work on it almost exclusively. This is similar to a co-op position, but for marks (not paid). The course is focused on giving you real-world experience with an outside organization and frequently leads to employment opportunities. You will be asked to attend the Open House, where team projects are on display, on the last day of the program, in person, at Frost Campus in Lindsay, Ontario. So please include the travel costs associated with this in your budget for taking the online program.

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."

Read the article

Upon 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.

Apply online to Fleming College through Ontario Colleges Application Service (ontariocolleges.ca).

Select Fleming College, GIS Applications Specialist - (Online).

You will require a computer, internet access and a headset with microphone, earpieces, and USB connectivity. Plan on spending $1000 for books and supplies. You may also be required to pay examination proctoring fees.