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Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIST)

Faculty
GIST Brochure (PDF)
San Juan GIS Users Group

The Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIST) program at San Juan College offers students a solid education to pursue a career in the rapidly growing field of geospatial sciences, or to develop new skills for their current profession.

Geospatial science includes geographic information systems (GIS), the global positioning system (GPS) and the remote sensing of satellite and aerial imagery among other mapping technologies. Together these tools are used to collect, manage and analyze geographic information and allow us to make better decisions about our world.

Experts estimate that 70 – 85 % of the information we deal with each day has a spatial component that can be mapped. From improving habitat for endangered species, planning smart growth of communities, wisely managing energy and natural resources, to emergency vehicle response, locating new businesses, analyzing health risks and aircraft navigation, GIST is now an integral part of our everyday lives. The applications of GIST are limited only by people’s imagination!

New Mexico employment and housing maps; Valerie Nells, SJC student.	Possible monkey preserves; Richard Immell, SJC student.	Preferred habitat of Gunnison's prairie dog; Jason Brady, SJC student.	How GIS works and other GIS resources.	For students and others interested in learning about careers in geospatial technologies.

Other interesting links

	Desolation canyon Landsat 7 image; source: USGS & NASA; http://earthasart.gsfc.nasa.gov/
	LiDAR Denver Stadiums source: Merrick & Co., Inc.; http://lidar.cr.usgs.gov/
	El Nino, NASA; Sea surface temperature during El Nino; collected by TERRA Earth. Source: NASA.; http://visibleearth.nasa.gov

Program Details
Currently, there are two programs available in GIST: a one-year certificate or a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS).

The one-year certificate provides training for professionals to develop GIST skills to apply in their established field. It is also appropriate for non-degreed persons seeking immediate employment as a technician in the mapping sciences.

The AAS is a professional degree for individuals ready to enter the work force. The AAS provides more in depth education in GIST and is appropriate for students seeking employment as technicians and analysts.

Soon a third program, an associate of science (AS), will be offered for students transferring to a four-year college.

Download a list of the requirements or see the table below.