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Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems
Through the Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems program at University of Redlands, you'll build an advanced GIS skillset for a high-demand career. The program offers a unique blend of hands-on experience with cutting-edge GIS technology, personalized mentorship, real-world problem-solving, and a close relationship with Esri, the global leader in GIS, headquartered right here in Redlands.
Degrees Offered
Bachelor of Science
Program Types
Undergraduate, Major
Mode of Study
On Campus
Department
Geographic Information ScienceSchool / College
College of Arts and Sciences
What is a geographic information systems degree?
The Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) program prepares you to become a specialist capable of advanced skills in GIS through a curriculum of four key competencies: spatial data acquisition, spatial data management, spatial analysis, and information presentation. The B.S. GIS differs from the B.A. GIS in that the B.S. GIS offers more advanced skills in GIS without the exposure to interdisciplinary applications contained in the B.A. GIS.
Why you should major in geographic information systems at Redlands?
GIS is a spatial system that connects data to a map, integrating location data with all types of descriptive information. The demand for GIS professionals is increasing as GIS technology continues to yield benefits for virtually every field. With this degree from University of Redlands, you will harness the power of GIS to make maps that communicate, perform analysis, share information, and solve complex problems in the world around you. You can easily bridge your GIS skillset across many industries. GIS specialists are often employed by various levels of government, utilities, and in the private sector, including with our corporate partners at ESRI, the global leader in GIS headquartered locally in Redlands.
Classes you'll take
The Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems (BSGIS) program teaches you to think, communicate, reason, and solve real-world problems spatially — through a curriculum of four key competencies: spatial data acquisition, spatial data management, spatial analysis, and information presentation.
Spatial data acquisition:
Working with spatial needs a sound understanding of how spatial data are represented and how they can be acquired using various methods. You will learn how to represent spatial data in coordinates, how to calculate coordinates from field measurements, how to use images to get GIS data, and how GPS is used in GIS on different platforms.
Data management:
GIS data has a large volume and every GIS system involves different types of data. You'll learn how to model real-world problems with spatial data and manage such data for efficient data creation, update, and retrieval for use.
Spatial analysis:
The core of GIS is spatial analysis. You will learn various concepts and knowledge of how to solve problems spatially. Upon a sound understanding of the concepts, you will learn how to use GIS technology to solve spatial problems, including customizing workflows under a GIS platform.
Information presentation:
You will learn how to represent spatial data under different contexts and understand the issues with the different representations.
Required
- GIS110: Introduction to Spatial Analysis & GIS
- GIS167: Introduction to Python Programming
- GIS210: Advanced Spatial Analysis & GIS
- GIS325: Spatial Data Acquisition and Representation
- GIS326: Cartography
- GIS362: Spatial DBMS
- GIS465: Geospatial Analysis
- GIS496: Capstone Project
Electives
- GIS267/DS201: Introduction to Data Science
- GIS361: Advanced Topics in GIS
- GIS363: Applied Data Analysis with Python
- GIS368: Advanced Cartography
- GIS369: Web GIS Application
- GIS425/SPA425: Introduction to Remote Sensing and Photogrammetry
- GIS467: Advanced Geospatial Analysis with Python
- MATH233: Introduction to Machine Learning
Math:
- MATH118: Integrated Calculus I
Or
-
MATH120: Brief Calculus
Or -
MATH121: Calculus I
Undergraduate application deadlines
Fall 2025 - First Year
November 15, 2024 - Early Action
Fall 2025 - First Year
January 15, 2025 - Regular Decision*
Fall 2025 - Transfer
March 1, 2025 - Regular Decision*
Note
*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis after the deadline based on capacity.
What you'll learn
GIS data has a large volume and every GIS system involves different types of data. You'll learn how to model real-world problems with spatial data and manage such data for efficient data creation, update, and retrieval for use.
Working with spatial needs a sound understanding of how spatial data are represented and how they can be acquired using various methods. You will learn how to represent spatial data in coordinates, how to calculate coordinates from field measurements, how to use images to get GIS data, and how GPS is used in GIS on different platforms.
The core of GIS is spatial analysis. You will learn various concepts and knowledge of how to solve problems spatially. Upon a sound understanding of the concepts, you will learn how to use GIS technology to solve spatial problems, including customizing workflows under a GIS platform.
You will learn how to represent spatial data under different contexts and understand the issues with the different representations.
What you'll learn
Graduates pursue careers as
Analyzing spatial data to support decision-making and solve geographical problems.
Creating detailed maps and visual representations of geographic information.
Utilizing GIS technology to design and develop efficient and sustainable urban spaces.
Using GIS data to assess environmental impact and guide conservation efforts.
Graduates pursue careers as
Featured faculty
Every Redlands faculty member is an active practitioner in their field. The classes they teach emerge from their unique research and practices, and they’re passionate about what they’re sharing. At Redlands, faculty are invested in and committed to your success.
Want to know more?
Get in touch with our admissions team.
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