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Programs Offered
- Certificate
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Delivery Options
- Online
- On-Campus
- Accelerated
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Credits
- 9 credits
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Timeline
- One–three semesters
Gain Geospatial Skills in Forestry, Conservation, and Environmental Science
Geographic information science (GIS) uses location-based data, mapping, and spatial analysis to examine patterns, relationships, and changes across the physical world.
Michigan Tech’s online and on-campus Advanced Geographic Information Science (GIS) for Natural Resources Graduate Certificate is designed for professionals and students who want to deepen their geospatial expertise in forestry, conservation, environmental science, and natural resource management. Unlike broader GIS programs, this certificate focuses specifically on applying spatial data and geospatial technologies to environmental and natural resource challenges.
Developed with input from GIS professionals and alumni working in the field, the program emphasizes practical, career-ready applications. Michigan Tech’s College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science also maintains connections with organizations such as the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and private industry, creating opportunities for collaboration and applied work.
As spatial data becomes increasingly important for monitoring landscapes, managing resources, and supporting environmental decisions, you’ll build advanced skills in analyzing and interpreting complex geographic information while gaining hands-on experience with widely used GIS tools and technologies.
Who is This Certificate For?
The Advanced GIS for Natural Resources certificate at Michigan Tech is designed for both current students and working professionals looking to expand their expertise in geospatial technology. Graduate students can integrate this certificate into their degree program, adding a powerful technological edge that enhances their job market competitiveness. For professionals, this certificate offers a direct path to skill growth and career advancement, whether they’re seeking a promotion, transitioning into a GIS-focused role, or staying ahead in an evolving industry.
What You Need to Know
In the Graduate Certificate in Advanced Geographic Information Science for Natural Resources, you’ll build advanced skills in generating, visualizing, analyzing, and managing geospatial data using industry-standard GIS software such as ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online, along with programming tools such as Python.
Learn to work with large and complex datasets, automate geospatial workflows, manage geodatabases, and design and communicate GIS projects. You’ll also apply these skills to projects and research relevant to natural resources, environmental science, and professional geospatial work.
Admissions
Students with majors in natural resources management, surveying, geography, or civil and environmental engineering are preferred for enrollment. However, other majors will be considered. See complete admissions requirements.
Accelerated Option
Michigan Tech Bachelor's + 1 Semester = Accelerated Graduate Certificate
Current Michigan Tech undergraduates or recent alumni, get started right away. Our accelerated graduate certificates are a fast, affordable way to add graduate credentials to your bachelor's degree in as little as one semester. Be more marketable in your industry or prepare for your master's degree. Explore accelerated certificate options.
Online Option
Accredited Courses, Convenience
Online learning at Michigan Tech provides greater flexibility and can fit around your busy schedule wherever you are. Upgrade or change your career path.
Prospective students can earn an online graduate certificate in Advanced Geographic Information Science (GIS) for Natural Resources.
Credits
This graduate certificate requires a minimum of 9 total credits. Students may apply the credits earned for this certificate toward a graduate degree at Michigan Tech.