Geographic Information Systems

This program provides students with the concepts, methods, and applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Emphasis is on the techniques used to capture, store, query, analyze, and display spatial data. Specific topics include applications of GIS, geographic information and scale, coordinate systems, geospatial data models, data classification and symbolization, query and selection, cartographic design, data acquisition, data quality, geoprocessing, relational databases, metadata, spatial analysis, and GIS software.  Students who complete this program may get entry-level jobs as GIS analysts, or GIS technicians in government, agencies, such as Fish and Wildlife, Water Resources, Department of Health, utility companies, and federal agencies including Environmental Protection, Geological Survey, and National Parks; and public safety agencies including Fire, Police, and Emergency Services. Other employers include engineering, archaeological, and consulting firms.

Based upon local demand and enrollments in similar programs at nearby colleges, such as Sierra College, and American River College, we anticipate that 15-20 students will enroll in the GIS program. 

One of the Yuba College’s missions is to train students for the workforce and the GIS certificate does exactly that. A wide range of industries and organizations collect and use data and geospatial technologies in their every day operations; whether it is transportation, sources of raw materials, markets, labor force, or any activity that has spatial component, employs GIS technologies to create “intelligent maps”, analyze problems and find solutions.

The courses we offer are designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary for entry-level employment and also serve students who want to gain expertise for their current and/or future job requirements.

Yuba College prepares a diverse student population to excel in a rapidly changing, interdependent world.   Our quality programs and student services empower students to achieve their educational and life goals, by providing associate and transfer degrees, certificates and workforce training and opportunities for lifelong learning.  

This GIS Certificate aligns well with the Mission Statement of the college, by providing the following: 

- It will provide students with the foundational GIS skills that will ensure entry level positions in wide range of organizations that employ GIS technologies in their day-to-day workflows

- It will stimulate interest in lifelong learning in a fast paced and rapidly changing technology 

- It will prepare students for the intellectual, occupational, and technological challenges of a complex world

- It develops students' abilities to think scientifically and objectively.