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Geographic Information Systems
Associate in Applied Science Degree
Certificate
GIS is a rapidly emerging field in technology. Green River offers a
hands-on learning environment that prepares you to embark on this new and
exciting career path.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a
database management system that handles large amounts of information in a
digital map format. It organizes this information into computer databases,
performs various data manipulations, and analyses and displays spatially
referenced information both graphically and numerically.
GIS efficiently manages sophisticated
databases by improving information management, resulting in better
decision-making capabilities.
GIS technology is used by a wide variety of
businesses and agencies. It has environmental applications, as well as
planning, surveying, and mapping applications. It also applies to:
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election administration and redistricting
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infrastructure management
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oil, gas, and mineral exploration
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public health and safety
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real estate information
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research and education
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transportation and logistics
Green River Community College offers two
programs for GIS students to prepare for various careers in the field.
Students may enroll in a two-year Associate in Applied Science degree
program or in a one-year certificate program.
GIS technicians are employed by:
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consulting firms
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government agencies (city, county, state, and
federal)
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map and database publishers
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marketing and sales companies
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oil, gas, and mineral companies
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real estate companies
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timber companies
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utilities (electric, gas, water, wastewater,
and telephone)
A GIS graduate can work as a:
When can new students enroll?
Both of the GIS programs at Green River offer enrollment at the beginning of any
quarter.
Prerequisites
Complete an admissions application to Green River Community College,
complete the COMPASS assessment, and meet with an advisor.
Basic PC skills, DOS and Windows operations
knowledge, equivalent to Bus E 100 or 111, or instructor’s approval, are
required for entry into the program.
How long does the program take?
It depends on you. If you attend Green River full- time, you can complete
the Associate in Applied Science degree requirements in two years. The GIS
certificate can be completed in three quarters. If you attend part-time,
completion will depend on how many credits you earn each quarter.
Special fees
Courses requiring special equipment and software have modest fees.
Personal requirements for success
The successful GIS technician
enjoys working with detailed information and possesses computer, verbal,
and technical writing skills.
Does the program transfer to four-year
colleges?
The Associate in Applied Science degree may be transferred to four-year
institutions. However, credits earned in the GIS certificate program may
apply only as electives towards a four-year degree. All transferability is
at the discretion of the receiving institution.
Worker Retraining
Both GIS programs offered at Green River are also Worker Retraining programs if
you meet the following criteria:
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you have been terminated or have received a
notice of termination from employment; or
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you are currently eligible to draw
unemployment benefits; or
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you have exhausted your benefits within the
past 24 months
Special program notes
The Geographic Information Systems degree and certificate programs at GRCC
offer you:
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a comprehensive education
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advanced technology
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hands-on learning experience
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a GIS internship program that provides
practical working experience
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an opportunity to enhance your existing GIS
skills
Employment outlook
The future of the field is wide open. According to Vertek Job Analyzer GIS
will experience a 90% growth from 1996–2006.
Salary range
Entry-level positions in GIS-related fields usually begin at annual
salaries between $20,000 and $25,000 and exceed $60,000 for positions with
skills developed through additional degree work and experience.
For specific information about Geographic Information Systems, contact:
Sabah Jabbouri
Extension 4854
sjabbouri@greenriver.edu
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