Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

526 David M. French Hall
(810) 766-6732
https://www.umflint.edu/cas/programs/geographic-information-systems

Behavioral Sciences Department Chair: Hillary Heinze
Graduate Information Systems Program Director and Faculty Advisor: Greg Rybarczyk
Geographic Information Systems Professional Advisor: Cydnee Weirauch

Administrative Support Staff
196 Murchie Science Building
Budget and Finances: Lesa Callcut

220/260 French Hall
Communication and Academic Support: Audrey Scribner
Course Scheduling and Personnel: Suzanne Shivnen

Faculty
Professors Martin M. Kaufman, Randall Repic; Associate Professor Greg Rybarczyk

Geographic information systems (GIS) and geospatial technology make up a discipline centered on the spatial analysis of economic, environmental, biological, public health, and social phenomena. GIS allows us to examine current and future conditions visually, which is invaluable for monitoring disease outbreaks to managing endangered species habitats, to forecasting real-estate values and traffic patterns. Practitioners and policy-makers have also found GIS to be a critical tool for the planning of smart-cities and creating sustainable environments. This evolving STEM discipline draws from computer science, information technology, cartography, and geography.

The increasing of volumes of spatial data, and the need to make sense of it, has meant that GIS and Geospatial Professionals are increasingly sought after in a variety of disciplines to solve 21^st century problems. This is backed up by the fact that the U.S. Department of Labor has recognized Geotechnology as a “high-growth” employment sector. The GIS program at UM-Flint prepares students to pursue a career in this lucrative and technologically-oriented field. GIS professionals provide geographic data management and spatial analysis skills in a variety of disciplines, such as city and regional planning, civil and environmental engineering, criminal justice, archeology, history, health services, insurance, marketing, and transportation analysis and planning.

Program Mission
The overarching mission of the GIS and Geospatial Technology program is to provide UM-Flint students and working professionals an opportunity to gain knowledge, theory, and training in the use of spatial analytical techniques. The undergraduate program balances theory and specialized training, while the graduate program focuses on Geographic Information Science (GISc) and offers a deeper understanding and preparation on how to apply the theoretical foundations and spatial methodologies to a range of real-world problems.

Career Opportunities
Environmental Systems Research Institute
Zippia Career Opportunities
GIS Jobs Clearinghouse

Programs

GIS and Geospatial Technology Certificate