Geographic Information Science Major

Geographic Information Science (GISc) is a high-tech, in-demand field that allows us to monitor, question, analyze, understand and predict the world around us.

The major is comprised of four interrelated technologies, including geographic information systems, remote sensing, global positioning systems and cartography.

UNI’s GISc program provides advanced training in all of these areas and is among the most comprehensive in the nation.

drone flying over world

In Demand
Job Market

High growth industry and one of the top three emerging career paths.

Cutting-Edge
Technology

Analyze physical, cultural, economic and social phenomena.

Hands-on
Research

Participate in funded, collaborative research with faculty (as an undergrad!).

Want to learn more?

Fill out your information here and we'll be in touch!

Contact us directly at:

Department of Geography
205 ITTC
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA  50614-0406
319-273-2772






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Why Geographic Information Science?

Find your path.

UNI’s GISc labs host all current and industry standard software, field equipment and data archives. This includes a wide range of GIS and remote sensing data, fixed-wing and rotary-wing unmanned aircrafts, a spectroradiometer, spectrometers, thermal radiometers, and GPS survey and mapping equipment.

Classes are focused around three thematic areas, customized for your specific path of study:

  • Environmental Science and Policy
  • Economic Geography and Business
  • Geographic Information Science
Student with drone

Shape your future.

UNI’s GISc major prepares students for lucrative careers. Many of our students are hired prior to graduation and continue to be sought after in fields such as:

  • Intelligence and Security
  • Cartography
  • Federal and State Government
  • Private Sector Business
  • Urban & Regional Planning
  • Environmental Analysis and Monitoring
With drone in the field

Go beyond.

Internships and research opportunities are strongly encouraged in geography, as is study abroad and international travel. 

Service to community is also a vital aspect of the department. While individual geography faculty members engage their students in applied projects in the Cedar Valley and across Iowa, departmental centers/organizations are campus leaders in providing expertise and training to the state and region.

Surveying

Find your path.

UNI’s GISc labs host all current and industry standard software, field equipment and data archives. This includes a wide range of GIS and remote sensing data, fixed-wing and rotary-wing unmanned aircrafts, a spectroradiometer, spectrometers, thermal radiometers, and GPS survey and mapping equipment.

Classes are focused around three thematic areas, customized for your specific path of study:

  • Environmental Science and Policy
  • Economic Geography and Business
  • Geographic Information Science
Student with drone

Shape your future.

UNI’s GISc major prepares students for lucrative careers. Many of our students are hired prior to graduation and continue to be sought after in fields such as:

  • Intelligence and Security
  • Cartography
  • Federal and State Government
  • Private Sector Business
  • Urban & Regional Planning
  • Environmental Analysis and Monitoring
With drone in the field

Go beyond.

Internships and research opportunities are strongly encouraged in geography, as is study abroad and international travel. 

Service to community is also a vital aspect of the department. While individual geography faculty members engage their students in applied projects in the Cedar Valley and across Iowa, departmental centers/organizations are campus leaders in providing expertise and training to the state and region.

Surveying

Geography: A World of Possibilities

Geographers
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