The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Program integrates government, academia, and private sector training/educational initiatives to help students understand how the United States and its interests worldwide are protected against threats to public safety, both natural and manmade, through effective communication, preparedness, detection, prevention, response and recovery. Students have the opportunity to earn the Geographic Information System (GIS) certification.
GIS is a computer system for capturing, storing, checking, and displaying data related to positions on Earth’s surface. GIS can show many different kinds of data on one map. This enables people to more easily see, analyze, and understand patterns and relationships.
Courses
Advanced Skill-Based Training for Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing
Prerequisite: Introduction to Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing
This course will continue to help students learn the skills required to work on and/or build a Geographic Information Systems/Remote Sensing project. Students and teachers will follow a course of handson instruction to learn skills ranging from introductory digital mapping to image analysis. Students will learn and apply Spatial Analyst and 3D Analyst. The ArcGIS Spatial Analyst extension allows students to examine the spatial relationships within a specific area as well as study site suitability. The ArcGIS 3D Analyst extension allows students to gain a different perspective on their environment by modeling surfaces three dimensionally.
Foundations of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness
This course will introduce students to Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness guidelines, concepts, and action plans. Emphasis will be placed on unique aspects of public safety and public health. Various methodologies for intelligence gathering and dissemination will be explored and will introduce students to various local, state, and federal assets
GIS Internship / Capstone Experience
Prerequisite: Advanced Skill-Based Training for Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing
The Internship/Capstone Experience is the culminating course for the GIS for Homeland Security Program. Students will have the option of completing an industry-mentored project or internship. They will play an integral part in determining which type of experience will be most beneficial and supportive of their individual goals. At the end of the course, students will compile a working portfolio which documents their academic and technical skill attainment and present it for critique.
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing
Prerequisite: Foundations of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness
This course is the foundation of the STARS Entry-Level GIS Technician Certification. Teachers and students will use a locally customized Geographic Information System (GIS) to learn about their local community. They will use the same data, imagery and software that NASA uses to study their state, county and school campus. The skills based training portion of this course will help the student learn the skills required to work on and/or build a Geographic Information Systems/Remote Sensing project. Students will follow a course of hands-on instruction to learn skills ranging from introductory digital mapping to image analysis.