Cartography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Certificate
Cartographers and geographic information systems (GIS) specialists develop, construct, and use maps and other imagery to solve problems relating to the earth, its resources, and its development. These skills are used by professionals employed in federal mapping and related agencies in the Washington metropolitan region.
Program Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, a student will be able to:
- Use various mapping software packages.
- Apply their enhanced cartographic skills.
- Use maps as tools.
- Conduct research and be familiar with the various research resources available, i.e., county, city, and federal government; the private sector; and online data.
- Have gained an appreciation of the various job opportunities available through attending trips to various cartographic facilities.
- Integrate other software as appropriate into their mapping projects, e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and other graphics packages.
- Use various techniques that improve their cartographic, GIS, and spatial analytic skills.
- Create portfolios and PowerPoint presentations and give presentations that strengthen their communication, interpersonal, and articulation skills.
- Present and explain their work at map design competitions and at poster presentations at conferences.
Program Advising
Meet with your academic advisor regularly to discuss your academic plans and make sure you are on track to graduate and/or transfer. The program advising guide outlines the degree requirements and is meant to supplement the advising process.
Careers
For some positions listed, a bachelor's degree or higher may be required. Use the Career and Program Explorer to see a full report for this career field. See links below chart for further guidance and/or connect with a Program Advisor to discuss career goals.
Career possibilities include cartographer, geospatial analyst, GIS specialist, GIS technician, and Census data jobs.
- MC Student Employment Services: Speak with the Student Employment Specialist for help with resume writing, interviewing, setting up a College Central Network (CCN)new window account and other job search topics.
- Career Coach: Explore Career Coach to learn more about this career and/or discover related majors and in-demand careers based on your current interests! Take a Career Assessment and then browse careers and job opportunities in the area.
Curriculum
Related Programs and Courses
General Studies Degree
Students who major in general studies explore personal, professional, and academic areas of interest within a flexible framework supporting transfer.
Workforce Development and Continuing Education
MC offers a wide variety of noncredit classes. These courses are designed to help you upgrade your skills, pursue career training, or learn something new.