Geographic information systems

The graduate certificate in geographic information systems is a 15-credit program that develops advanced skills in GIS, spatial analysis, remote sensing, mapping and geovisualization. In-person and online students learn to collect, integrate, analyze and communicate spatial data to understand how Earth and human systems change across space and time.

View the online geographic information systems graduate handbook 

Explore program courses in the University Catalog 

Real-world experience

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

Related clubs and organizations

• Geo Club
• Super Group
• Graduate and Professional Student Association (GPSA) 

Financial aid

U of I certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid or scholarships. Financial aid and scholarships are available only to students enrolled in bachelor’s or associate degree programs.

For more information or to explore funding options for your education, 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.

Recognized STEM Program

This program is recognized as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and may be eligible for the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension for international students.

Learn more about STEM approved CIP/degree codes

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

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.