About the Program
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a widespread technology that helps you with everyday navigational tasks and encompasses the broader science of managing, analyzing, and mapping geographic data. A minor in GIS provides a computational skill set complementary to many major fields of study. Jobs in a variety of fields, such as anthropology and marine science, require GIS skills, and the minor teaches you how to apply GIS for your field. The need for GIS skills is increasing, and the minor will teach you GIS skills through real-world applications both in and out of the classroom.
Core Courses
- Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Spatial Data
- Spatial Analysis
Student Outcomes
Students interested in a GIS career should develop a portfolio of independent work and seek out project-based work while completing the minor. Many courses in the minor give students the opportunity to independently work on GIS projects. In addition, faculty can help students find GIS projects for GIS-499. Students may also work on projects through a GIS internship in GIS-489.
Undergraduate Research & Internships
Experiential learning is emphasized in the GIS minor through research (GIS-325), internships (GIS-489), and faculty-guided independent studies (GIS-499). Research can be conducted with Monmouth faculty, the Urban Coast Institute, or another one of Monmouth’s Centers of Distinction. Faculty-guided independent studies are often in partnership with an outside organization, and help students gain project-based GIS experience. Recent independent studies have been in partnership with the New Jersey Borough of Lake Como, American Red Cross, and New Jersey Forest Fire Service. Students can expect new partnerships on a regular basis, which could lead to potential internship opportunities.