Geographic Information Systems
Pathway Certificate
Geographic information systems (GIS) is one of the top emerging industries in the 21st century. We live in a digital world. GIS careers exist in virtually every imaginable career field, from environmental science to business and much more.
The GIS Pathway Certificate provides technical training for employees already working in the field, a career and educational pathway for high school students interested in drafting or engineering, and a career and educational pathway for people desiring an entry level, technical position in GIS.
Coursework includes three courses in GIS. The GIS courses transfer to UO, OSU, and OIT. The GIS courses count as either a Social Science electives or Science with lab electives towards the AAOT.
The required courses for the pathways certificate are included in the one-year certificate for Engineering and Drafting Technician, the two-year AAS program for Civil Engineering and Surveying Technology and the two-year AS program for Surveying and Geomatics. Students completing the drafting pathways certificate may continue with the one-year completion certificate, two-year AAS, or two-year Engineering: University Transfer program (depending on math level), if desired.
Ready to get started?
It's easy and only requires TWO steps.
Step 1
Fill out our response form. This will alert us that you are interested in the Engineering programs.
Step 2
If you are new to UCC (you've never taken a class), apply to UCC. Otherwise, you are done for now. You will be contacted about the next steps.
Video Testimonials
Spotlight on Student Success : Tom McNamara
UCC graduate lands satisfying career in the field of Surveying & Engineering.
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Careers
GIS skills overlap into many career fields. It is important to recognize that this certificate can complement or provide pathways to other career opportunities and the technical training provided may increase promotional opportunities for people already employed in the field.
People interested in this career field should be prepared to consider relocating to gain initial experience, as this is a high-demand position in areas with significant development.
There are multiple career pathways for people with GIS backgrounds. Examples of some related careers are available on the Oregon Labor Market Information Website for Surveying Technicians and Civil Engineering Technicians. There is more information about careers in GIS at the ESRI website.
Catalog Info
View / Download catalog information for Geographic Information Systems: Pathway Certificate
Advising Guides
View / Download advising information for Engineering Technology: Pathway Certificates
View / Download advising information for Engineering Technology: Occupational Skills Training Certificate Options
Other Degrees & Certificates at UCC
- Civil Engineering and Surveying Technology: AAS
- Engineering and Drafting Technician: One-year Certificate
- Water Quality Pathway Certificate
- Surveying & Geomatics: AS
- Surveying Pathway Certificate
High School Students
Get a head start by becoming a dual credit student. Dual credit students attend UCC and high school at the same time! You can complete high school requirements, work on college prerequisites and earn credits towards a degree or certificate all at the same time.
Residents of WA, ID, NV, and CA
If you are from Washington, Idaho, Nevada, or California, you pay Oregon resident tuition rates. That's a big discount! You might also be interested in what life is like around UCC. Find out.
Money for College
Get access to millions of dollars that are available to students - not just loans. There are scholarships, grants and work study opportunities too! Every student can use money for college. It can help you to be more successful. Plus, it can lower your debt load when you finish college. Some students actually leave college debt-free! Here are some important sources of money for college. Don't let these opportunities for financial aid pass you by. Act now! Decide. Commit. Succeed.
- Pell Grants part of FAFSA (for undergraduate students who display exceptional financial need.)
- Federal Work Study part of FAFSA (Work on Campus. Get experience in the workforce.)
- Scholarships, OSAC, FAFSA, and more (Sources of money for college.)
- UCC Scholars (Tuition waiver for high school seniors with high GPAs.)
Why UCC?
Engineering technology faculty members at UCC have practical experience working in business and industry. They bring their real world experience into the classroom. Faculty members network with employers, and are able to work cooperatively with the UCC Advising and Career Center to assist you in finding internships and permanent employment.
Contact
Prospective students should contact an Enrollment Advisor to get started and then see a program advisor (below) to develop a more focused educational plan.
Clay Baumgartner, PE - Contact
Chair, Associate Professor, Engineering / Surveying & CIS
Phone: 541-440-4683