Certificate
Certificate of Advanced Study in GIS and Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Gain insight into one of the fastest growing areas of GIS: the use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), or drones, for mapping and analysis. In this specialized GIS graduate certificate, you’ll start by building your foundational knowledge in geographic information systems, then learn to operate UAS and the science behind preparing aerial photography collected from drone platforms for use in GIS.
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Top-ranked, career-focused education in a flexible format.
At a Glance
Classes Begin
January 6
Term Length
10 Weeks
4 Course Certificate
Tuition
$13,344
Format
Asynchronous and Hybrid Online
Admission
No GRE or GMAT
Duration
As few as 6 months
Top-Ranked University
U.S. News & World Report Rankings
Featured Instructors
Free Application
University College is committed to educational access, and given the difficult circumstances currently impacting millions of people, we are waiving application fees.
Skills You’ll Learn
Cultivate a working knowledge for the safe and efficient use of UAS
Conduct several aircraft maneuvers while collecting data
Execute aerial mapping for use in GIS
Specialized Graduate Certificate in Certificate of Advanced Study in GIS and Unmanned Aircraft Systems requires completion of 16 credit hours (4 courses).
4
Concentration Courses
Sample Schedule
Plan your schedule to complete your graduate certificate. Finish quickly in just six months or take up to two years (four course certificate) or three years for a six-course certificate.
| Year 1 | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4-Course Certificate Classes | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| 6-Course Certificate Classes | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Year 1 | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4-Course Certificate Classes | 1 | 1 | 2 | 0 |
| 6-Course Certificate Classes | 2 | 2 | 2 | 0 |
| Year 1 | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4-Course Certificate Classes | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 6-Course Certificate Classes | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
Take a Course Before You Apply
We know how important it is to get started when you’re ready and that’s why you can enroll in a course before you officially apply.
Career Outcomes
Predicted outcomes for graduates of GIS and
Unmanned Aircraft Systems
From helping to clean up environmental incidents to scouting for new
businesses, aerial imagery obtained via unmanned aircraft systems
can make an impact across industries.
Fill the skills gap! Drone pilots who specialize in GIS and mapping are
hard to come by, according to Market Watch, which indicates
specialization will keep you in high-demand.
The FAA estimates that by 2022, nearly half a million registered drones
will be in use in the United States, much of that for commercial use for
GIS purposes.
Job Titles
GIS and Drone Mapping Specialist
Aerial Survey Sensor Operator
GIS Technician
GIS Analyst
Aerial Geomatics Technician
Land Surveyor
GIS Specialist Salary: National Average
$59,956
(Glassdoor.com)
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Hear from Our Students
Theme: Job Satisfaction
GIS
“The certificate program is like a shortened version of a degree. It’s almost like a fast-track program to build up your skills.” —Kerry Shakarjian, graduate.
Flexible Online Classes
We understand the demands of balancing work, friends and family, and school can be challenging. That's why at University College, you can complete your program entirely online. Our online learning platform makes it easy to work anywhere at any time.
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
University College programs maintain the highest level of accreditation offered by The Higher Learning Commission, one of the regional accrediting bodies recognized by the federal government. The University of Denver and all of its academic programs are regionally accredited by this commission, and regional accreditation is the highest standard for universities in the United States.
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