Transform geographic data into powerful decision-making tools. The Geographic Information Science (GIS) concentration in UNC Greensboro’s Bachelor of Science in Geography degree prepares you to collect, manage, analyze, and visualize spatial data using industry-standard geospatial technologies. Through coursework in GIS, remote sensing, cartography, and spatial analysis, you’ll learn how geographic information is used to solve complex challenges related to environmental management, land use, transportation, urban development, and resource planning.
Designed for students seeking advanced technical and analytical skills, this concentration emphasizes data-driven problem-solving and geospatial technology. You’ll graduate prepared to work with geographic information in professional settings or pursue advanced study in GIS, geography, environmental science, and related fields.
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, B.S. Concentration Highlights
- Develop expertise with industry-standard geospatial technologies. Gain hands-on experience with GPS equipment, ArcGIS, ERDAS Imagine, MapInfo, remote sensing applications, and other professional tools used to collect, analyze, and visualize geographic data.
- Build advanced skills in spatial analysis and problem-solving. Learn how to manage geospatial data, identify patterns, create digital maps, and use GIS technologies to support decision-making across a variety of industries.
- Apply geospatial technology to real-world challenges. Explore how GIS supports environmental management, urban and regional planning, transportation systems, natural resource management, emergency response, and business analytics.
- Access specialized geography laboratories and research resources. Conduct analysis using facilities such as the Carolina Tree-Ring Science Laboratory and the Regolith Analysis Laboratory while developing technical and analytical expertise.
THE B.S. in Geography — GIS STUDENT EXPERIENCE
- Turn data into insights. Coursework in GIS, cartography, remote sensing, and spatial analysis helps you apply geospatial technologies to real-world questions and challenges.
- Take your studies beyond campus. Geography students have opportunities to participate in field courses and study abroad experiences that allow them to collect, analyze, and interpret geographic data in diverse environments.
- Grow your professional network. Through the Geography Club, you’ll engage with GIS analysts, planners, environmental consultants, and other industry professionals while exploring career opportunities and professional pathways.
- Stand out as a geography scholar. Students can compete on UNCG’s award-winning Geography Bowl Team and qualify for membership in Gamma Theta Upsilon, the international honor society for geography.
GIS Concentration, B.S. Courses
The Geographic Information Science (GIS), B.S. concentration focuses on collecting, managing, and analyzing geographic data using advanced geospatial technologies. Coursework builds skills in GIS, remote sensing, cartography, spatial analysis, and data visualization while preparing students to solve complex environmental, planning, and resource management challenges. Courses include:
After Graduating with a B.S. in Geography — Geographic Information Science (GIS) Concentration
A Bachelor of Science in Geography with a concentration in Geographic Information Science (GIS) from UNC Greensboro prepares you to work with geographic data. Through coursework in GIS, remote sensing, cartography, and spatial analysis, you’ll develop valuable technical skills. Learn how to collect, manage, analyze, and visualize spatial information. You’ll also use geospatial technology to solve complex problems.
Graduates work in geospatial technology, environmental consulting, government, transportation, and urban planning. The program also prepares students for graduate study. Alumni pursue advanced degrees in GIS, geography, environmental science, planning, and sustainability. Many continue their education through UNC Greensboro’s online Master’s in Sustainability and Environment or the Post‑Baccalaureate Certificate in Sustainability. You’ll graduate ready to support data-driven decision-making across industries.
Potential Career Paths
- Cartographer
- Emergency Management Planner
- Environmental Planner
- Remote Sensing Analyst
- GIS Analyst
- Transportation Manager
- Urban/City Planner
- Teacher
Get more information About the B.S. 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.S. 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