EESC 360 - Introduction to GIS in Earth, Environmental and Sustainability Sciences

Units: 3
Interpretation of spatial data and preparation of maps using Geographic Information Systems. Display and manipulation of spatial data. Map scale, projections, and coordinate transformations. Basic database queries. Global Positioning Systems. The course will include examples from Earth, Environmental and Sustainability Sciences. Lecture Units: 2; Lab Units: 1

Credit Restrictions: Must be taken graded A-F for credit toward the major.

Possible Instructional Methods: On-ground or Hybrid.
Grading: A-F or CR/NC (student choice).
Course Typically Offered: Fall ONLY

Student Learning Outcomes - Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Define geography and GIS, scale, projection, and coordinate systems and explain the importance of each in GIS.
Differentiate between vector, raster, and object-oriented data structures and explain the appropriate use of each of these data structures.
Describe various types of GIS data capture and the basics of GIS data storage.
Differentiate between attribute analysis and spatial analysis and describe the appropriate use of each type of analysis.
Produce effective maps of analytical results that adhere to established cartographic standards.
Demonstrate proficiency with GIS software applied to a chosen aspect of the earth, environmental and sustainability sciences.