Geographic information system (GIS) assistants help cartographers and land surveyors create maps. GIS assistants should have data entry skills and the ability to run basic GIS software programs.
Schools with GIS Assistant Programs
The following schools have GIS Assistant Programs. Tuition rates are for the 2015-2016 school year.
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degree Level | Tuition (2015-2016)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Houston Community College | Houston, TX | 2-year, Public | Certificate, Associate's | $1,632 (In-district) $3,360 (In-state) $3,756 (Out-of-state) |
| Lone Star College System | The Woodlands, TXC | 2-year, Public | Certificate, Associate's | $1,504 (In-district) $3,184 (In-state) $3,544 (Out-of-state) |
| Tarrant County College District | FT. Worth, TX | 2-year, Public | Certificate, Associate's | $1,320 (In-district) $2,064 (In-state) $4,920 (Out-of-state) |
| Brigham Young University | Provo, UT | 4-year, Private | On-line independent study course | $549 |
| San Jacinto Community College | Pasadena, TX | 2-year, Public | Certificate, Associate's | $1,408 (In-district) $2,416 (In-state) $3,688 (Out-of-state) |
| Texas State University-San Marcos | San Marcos, TX | 4-year, Public | Certificate | $9,348 (In-state) $20,268 (Out-of-state) |
*Source: National Center for Education Statistics
School Selection Criteria
Consider the following when looking for GIS assistant schools:
- Prospective students may want to look for a GIS assistant school that provides training with database management
- Access to the latest GIS software can ensure graduates are career-ready.
- Obtaining an internship and gaining practical experience can also help individuals find a job.
Program Overview
Undergraduate GIS assistant certificate programs typically last one semester. Many schools refer to them as GIS technician programs. Individuals who are enrolling in a certificate program might want to brush up on basic computer skills to prepare themselves for working with technology. A high school diploma is also required for program admittance. Graduates are qualified to work in entry-level positions at engineering consulting firms and environmental organizations.
Students interested in assisting cartographers or land surveyors in map-making can attend a training program that prepares them to work as a geographic information system (GIS) assistant. These programs are available at community colleges and some 4-year colleges and universities.
