Geographic information systems
Certificate, undergraduate
Map your expertise
This comprehensive certificate program provides a strong foundation and practical expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and related geospatial technologies. Designed for professionals, students and practitioners seeking to enhance their GIS capabilities, the program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience in spatial data analysis and geovisualization.
Overview
Build your mapping skills
Degree fit
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Are interested in mapping ecosystems, tracking environmental change or managing natural resources
- Are looking to use GIS for land use planning, infrastructure development and community design
- Want to deepen your spatial analysis skills and geospatial thinking
- Need to map vegetation, manage fire risks and monitor wildlife habitats
Career outcomes
Current job openings
587 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists
$115,833 - GIS Technicians
$116,707 - Remote Sensing Technicians
$56,025 - Urban and Regional Planners
$91,840 - Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
$85,793
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
U of I’s certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid or scholarships on their own. However, students enrolled in a bachelor's or associate degree program may apply their financial aid and scholarships toward a certificate if they are pursuing both simultaneously.
For more information or to explore funding options, contact the Financial Aid Office at finaid@uidaho.edu or call 208-885-6312.
Idaho LAUNCH
This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.
Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
Many of your courses will include a lab, and you’ll also have opportunities to contribute to faculty research projects, including:
- Polar meteorology and remote sensing in arctic environments
- Regional climate change in the Western United States
- Forest disturbances and environmental change
- Human adaptation to climate change in high latitudes
- Natural resource applications of GIS in quantifying carbon fluxes
Application information
Admission criteria for undergraduate certificates are the same as those for U of I undergraduate degree programs. View our admission requirements at our Admissions website to learn more.
Undergraduate certificate application process
Students interested in adding a certificate to their bachelor’s or associate degree program should speak with their academic advisor.
Students interested in earning an undergraduate certificate as a standalone program should contact the Admissions Office at 208-885-6326 for information on how to apply.