Developments in geographic information science (GIS) have transformed how researchers in a variety of fields gather and analyze information about the world around us. Scientists gain valuable insights in areas such as geology and meteorology by gathering remote sensed data and implementing geospatial tools. The perspective offered by GIS technology ... Read more > The post GIS Applications in Climate Change: How GIS Transforms Our Climate Response appeared first on USC GIS Graduate Programs ..read more

As increased globalization and advancements in technology raise the stakes in international relations, concerns that were once local now have the power to destabilize regions and make global impacts. Where global security efforts were once focused almost exclusively on borders and conflict, the pervasiveness of environmental and humanitarian concerns have become important focuses for government officials and security professionals. Ensuring global security contributes to international stability and peaceful coexistence among nations.  We spoke to two faculty members from the Spatial Scie ..read more

Organizations rely on geographic information science (GIS) for applications ranging from navigation in autonomous vehicles to mobile games played in real-world spaces. GIS specialists reveal valuable insights by employing best practices of spatial data collection, analysis and visualization. Their discoveries fuel problem solving and strategic decision making in organizations such as scientific and technical services firms, government agencies, humanitarian nonprofits and the military. As GIS techniques continue to evolve, users can leverage spatial data to deepen our understanding of patterns ..read more

Cities are systems of tremendous, ever-evolving complexity. Responsibly guiding an area’s development requires spatial information that’s robust, nuanced and constantly updated, as well as the problem-solving skills to apply that information. This challenge has made geographic information science and technology (GIST) invaluable to urban planners. Spatial data points the way to improving quality of life and building sustainable communities, while geographic information science (GIS) professionals use spatial thinking to transform that data into actionable insight and solutions. What Is The Rol ..read more

GIS certifications validate an individual’s knowledge and skills within specific areas of GIS such as the applications of GIS or geospatial intelligence. Given the number of different options, it can be difficult to determine which provide the most benefit to you— especially when you start to examine both graduate certificates and professional GIS certifications. While not all careers within GIS require specific certificates or certifications, they can be beneficial in several ways. Gaining the broadly applicable research knowledge and exposure to GIS techniques covered in graduate certificat ..read more

Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIST) includes a versatile range of tools and techniques for capturing, analyzing and leveraging spatial information. With each passing year, advances in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) reveal exciting possibilities for urban planning, retail, space exploration, and more. Experts make the most of these opportunities by staying up to date as new ways of optimizing and employing GIS technology emerge. By implementing robust GIS software applications, professionals can capture and visualize valuable geospatial intelligence. That’s why it’s vital ..read more

Michele Fong (she/her) is a GIS analyst at engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services firm HDR. Living in Richmond, VA, Michele completed her online Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIST) from the USC Spatial Sciences Institute in 2022. She tells us all, particularly on how this graduate certificate helped her land an internship and ultimately a full-time role at HDR as well as why Michele then decided to continue on and earn her M.S. in GIST. In this Q&A, Michele explains the factors that motivated her to delve deeper into geo ..read more

Building your professional network, maximizing your resume and researching market roles are important steps to take throughout your graduate education. Whether you’ve just begun researching online GIS programs or are approaching your final months at the USC Spatial Sciences Institute, understanding how to navigate the job market prepares you to find and acquire the job of your dreams upon graduation. We’ve provided a comprehensive guide to support prospective students, current students and alumni of GIS programs as they take steps toward finding new careers. Make the job search more effective ..read more

Time management is the ability to organize responsibilities and allocate the appropriate time to complete tasks. When you’re effective at managing your time, you’re able to meet deadlines, increase your productivity, combat procrastination and reduce stress. As a student and professional, time management also helps you produce higher-quality work more consistently and make progress toward reaching your goals. Getting your GIS graduate degree or certificate online provides you flexibility to complete your coursework on your own time. But the open-ended nature of the graduate GIS programs at USC ..read more

We’re honoring the active service members and veterans in USC’s Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIST) graduate programs by sharing stories about their geospatial work in the military and experiences in the GIST programs. Online Master of Science in Human Security and Geospatial Intelligence student Jacob Spear has served in the United States Marine Corps for over eight years. Seeking a new challenge and the opportunity to give back to others, Spear began the HSGI graduate program in May 2021. His vision is to transition from active service to a career in geospatial intelligence ..read more