Turn geographic data into meaningful insights. The Geographic Information Science (GIS) concentration in UNC Greensboro’s Bachelor of Arts in Geography degree prepares you to use mapping technologies and spatial data to better understand people, places, and the challenges facing communities. Through coursework in GIS, remote sensing, cartography, and spatial analysis, you’ll learn how geographic information supports decision-making in fields such as urban planning, environmental management, business, public policy, and economic development.
Designed for students seeking a flexible and interdisciplinary approach to geospatial technologies, this concentration combines technical skills with a broad understanding of geographic and social systems. You’ll graduate prepared to analyze location-based data, communicate complex information through maps, and apply geographic insights in a variety of professional settings.
The B.S. in Geography — Geographic Information Science degree requires more foundational physical and/or life science courses (such as chemistry and biology or physics) than the B.A. You’ll develop greater depth of knowledge and technical and applied skills in one narrowly focused aspect of geography.
The B.A. in Geography — Geographic Information Science degree offers a broader curriculum, with greater emphasis on analyzing issues that connect geography, climate, and humans’ place in these complex systems.
geographic information science (GIS), B.A. Concentration Highlights
- Develop in-demand geospatial skills. Build expertise in GIS, remote sensing, cartography, spatial analysis, and data visualization while learning how geographic information supports decision-making.
- Work with professional tools and technology. Use industry-standard software such as ArcGIS, ERDAS Imagine, and MapInfo, along with GPS equipment and mapping technologies.
- Explore applications across industries. Apply GIS and spatial analysis to challenges in environmental studies, planning, transportation, business, public policy, and community development.
- Learn in specialized research laboratories. Access facilities such as the Carolina Tree-Ring Science Laboratory and the Regolith Analysis Laboratory, where students conduct in-depth geographic and environmental analysis.
THE gis, B.A. STUDENT EXPERIENCE
- Combine geospatial technology with your interests. The flexibility of the B.A. allows you to pair GIS coursework with studies in environmental science, business, economics, public policy, urban planning, and other disciplines while developing valuable geospatial skills.
- Apply GIS beyond the classroom. Use mapping technologies, spatial analysis, and field-based data collection to better understand communities, environments, and geographic patterns. Students can also broaden their perspectives through study abroad and departmental field experiences.
- Connect with GIS professionals and industry leaders. Through the student-led Geography Club, you’ll meet GIS specialists, planners, environmental professionals, and community leaders while exploring career opportunities and building your professional network.
- Join a community of engaged geographers. Students can compete on UNCG’s award-winning Geography Bowl Team and earn membership in Gamma Theta Upsilon, the international honor society for geography.
GIS Concentration, B.A. Courses
The Geographic Information Science (GIS), B.A. concentration focuses on using maps, spatial data, and geospatial technologies to better understand people, places, and environments. Coursework builds skills in GIS, cartography, remote sensing, spatial analysis, and data visualization while exploring how geographic information supports decision-making across industries. Courses include:
AFTER GRADUATIng with A B.A. geographic information science (GIS) Concentration
A Bachelor of Arts in Geography with a concentration in Geographic Information Science (GIS) from UNC Greensboro prepares you to use geographic data to better understand people, places, and environments. You’ll learn how location influences the world around us. You’ll also develop skills in mapping, spatial analysis, data visualization, and problem-solving.
Graduates work in business, government, urban and regional planning, environmental organizations, nonprofit agencies, and education. The concentration also provides a strong foundation for graduate study and professional training. Alumni pursue advanced degrees in planning, sustainability, public policy, business, law, and related fields. Many continue their education through UNC Greensboro’s online Master’s in Sustainability and Environment or the Post‑Baccalaureate Certificate in Sustainability. These programs help students build the expertise needed to address community, environmental, and organizational challenges.
Potential Career Paths
- Cartographer
- Emergency Management Planner
- Environmental Planner
- Remote Sensing Analyst
- GIS Analyst
- Transportation Manager
- Urban/City Planner
- Teacher
“There was something about my experience at UNCG and working downtown. I feel plugged into Greensboro enough that I want to stay for the foreseeable future. I didn’t grow up here, but I’m invested.”
–Koen Roberson ’25, BA in Geography, GIS and Urban Planning
Get more information About the B.A. in Geography — GIS Concentration
Program Details
Degree Type: Bachelor's
College/School: College of Arts and Sciences
Program Type: Majors & Concentrations
Class Type: In Person
Catalog Name: Geography, B.A. Geographic Information Science Concentration
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Contact Us
Dr. G. Jay Lennartson
Director of Undergraduate Studies
Department of Geography, Environment, and Sustainability Studies
gjlennar@uncg.edu