Academic

Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) 

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can be found all throughout our modern society. Programs like MapQuest and Google Earth have brought this technology into the lives of many citizens of our world. More advanced software systems, such as ArcGIS, are used in academia, business, and government to manage large datasets of spatially-linked information, providing the users with powerful analytic tools. This course’s lectures review the fundamental theories of GIS, focusing on the various organizational and ethical issues that impact the implementation and sustainability of GIS in our society. The lab portion of the course teaches students how to operate the ArcGIS Desktop software product, ArcGIS pro. / Intro to GIS will be taught as a blended course, meaning that the course will be supplemented with online content. The online content will not replace the traditional lecture and lab components of the course, but will instead meant to enhance the experience and make materials available outside of class time. Content will be reviewed prior to attending class, which will leave time for discussion, clarification, and problem-solving during class time. All course materials, including lab assignments, quizzes, and exams, will be managed through our innovative virtual learning environment on Canvas. There will be very little paper material handed out or turned in during this class. (Also listed as ENV 109)

Intermediate Geographic Information Systems

 This second course in geographic information systems builds upon the theories discussed in Introduction to Geographic Information Systems, and focuses on the more technical aspects of GIS. Laboratory activities teach students to use more advanced functions of GIS software, and the fundamentals of advanced GIS analysis and display programs. The students will also learn to operate a precision GPS filed data collector. 

GIS Internship

The department encourages students with prior courses in anthropology to develop internship opportunities with the help of a member of the department. Students interest in pursuing internships should read “Internships And Other Opportunities” in the Course Catalog. In addition to the requirements listed there, interns should expect to write a paper describing their experiences as they are relevant to anthropology, and connect to a reading list which will be developed and agreed upon by the intern and their supervising faculty member.

Introduction to Geographic Information Science/Systems

• Guides: Erica McMaster, GIP Director; S. Lynn, L. Machado, and G. Sine
• GIP Schedule: Two sessions offered:
  • August 10-28, meetings Tues/Thurs. 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
  • September 7-25, meetings Tues/Thurs. 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
• Course Outline:
  • Foundational knowledge in the theory, research, techniques and applications of GIS (science & systems)
  • A tiered approach to learning GIS data collection, manipulation, analysis, output, and presentation techniques
• Cost: $250 (discounted to $100 for Class of 2020; for all others, 20% for 5 or more modules)

GIS Data Visualization

• Guides: Erica McMaster, GIP Director; S. Lynn, L. Machado, and G. Sine
• GIP Schedule: September 7-25, meetings Tues/Thurs. 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
• Course Outline:
  • Foundational knowledge in the theory and applications cartographic design and map making
  • Students will learn effective visualization methods based on available data, problem to be addressed, and the audience 
  • Students will explore infographics, web maps and applications, Story Maps, and dashboards
• Cost: $250 (discounted to $100 for Class of 2020; for all others, 20% for 5 or more modules

GIS Database Management

• Guides: Erica McMaster, GIP Director; S. Lynn, L. Machado, and G. Sine
• GIP Schedule: October 5-23, meetings Tues/Thurs. 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
• Course Outline:
  • Foundational knowledge about managing spatial data and information systems
  • Students will explore best practices, system design, and data modeling through practical applications of database theory and methods
• Cost: $250 (discounted to $100 for Class of 2020; for all others, 20% for 5 or more modules)

Applying GIS to Real-World Problems

• Guides: Erica McMaster, GIP Director; S. Lynn, L. Machado, and G. Sine
• GIP Schedule: November 2-20, meetings Tues/Thurs. 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm 
• Course Outline:
  • Using the skills learned in Modules 1-3, students will choose from a list of problem areas (ex. crime, environment, business) and will complete a project from start to finish
  • Students can also supply their own data to solve a real-world problem they may be working on in other courses or in their professional career
• Cost: $250 (discounted to $100 for Class of 2020; for all others, 20% for 5 or more modules