Geography, Planning, and Recreation

GSP 531 GIS Foundations I: Introduction to GIS and Maps (4 units)

This course introduces fundamental concepts and principles of maps and GIS. You’ll learn how the real world is represented as digital map layers in the computer by GIS and how maps are designed.

You’ll also be exposed to analytical capabilities of GIS for geospatial decision supporting. The course provides training in using the ArcGIS desktop software with hands-on lab projects. 

Prerequisite: admission to the GIS Graduate Certificate Program (or graduate status). 

GSP 533 GIS Foundations II: Spatial Analysis and GIS Projects (4 units)

This course enhances the foundation of GIS by:

• expanding your knowledge of geospatial data handling and processing
• introducing you to  a variety of geospatial data analysis and modeling techniques for vector, raster, tabular, and 3D data

It promotes problem-solving and project management abilities through real-world projects and data.

Prerequisite: GSP 531. 

GSP 536 GIS Mastery I: Enterprise Geodatabase (4 units)

This course introduces the principles, structure, manipulation, and application of enterprise geodatabases. It provides hands-on training in the design, development, and operation of geodatabases.

You’ll use real-world data to:

• design and build a geodatabase from scratch
• manipulate the geodatabase in a versioned and multiuser environment
•  develop GIS applications for municipal and local governments

Software used in this course includes Oracle-based ArcSDE geodatabase, ArcCatalog, and ArcMap.

Prerequisite: GSP 531. 

GSP 535 GIS Mastery II: Programming for GIS (4 units)

This course provides intensive training in computer programming for GIS in ArcGIS environment. You will learn VB.NET programming language and use programs to:

• create user tools
• automate GIS applications
• manipulate geospatial data
• carry out geoprocessing tasks

Prerequisite: GSP 533. 

Either GSP 537 OR GSP 538:

GSP 537: Raster-based Spatial Analysis (4 units)

This course provides extensive exposure to the raster (cell-based) GIS spatial data model including:

• the conceptual structure
• important GIS operations
• object manipulation
• multidisciplinary modeling of the environment

Prerequisite: GSP 533. 

GSP 538: Spatial Data Analysis and Spatial Statistics (4 units)

The course introduces spatial data analysis principles and techniques, including exploratory and inferential spatial statistics and models. You’ll learn to use spatial statistical methods for spatial relationship exploration as well as for spatial pattern analysis and modeling.  You’ll also learn how to interpret geo-statistical results.

Prerequisite: STA 570 or STA 571.  

Co-requisite: GSP 533. 

If you want to complement your geospatial technology classes, you can take these courses:

GSP 522 Remote Sensing Techniques I (4 units)

Introduction to principles of electromagnetic radiation and analysis techniques of visible and near infrared photography and imagery.

GSP 523 Remote Sensing Techniques II (4 units)

Analysis techniques of non-visible remotely-sensed radar and thermal imagery.

GSP 524 Remote Sensing Techniques III (2 units)

Field checking and verification of remote sensing imagery data.

GSP 525 Geographic Information Systems Lab (2 units)

Introduction to geographic information systems through hands-on tutorials and instructional exercises.

GSP 506 Public Planning Analysis (3 units)

Use and evaluation of computer spreadsheets and database applications and modeling for public planning applications.

GSP 532 GIS for Planners (3 units)

Providing training in ArcGIS desktop program and its application, including:

• hot linking
• tabular management
• data presentation
• cartography

Spatial analysis and geocoding are introduced.

GSP 689 Practicum (1-6 units)

Internship experience in a professional GIS setting. A practicum is recommended, but not required.