Geographic Information Systems
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are computer-based tools used to store, visualize, analyze, and interpret geographic data. Geographic data (also called spatial, or geospatial data) identifies the geographic location of features. GIS combines the visual elements and features on a map with the ability to link characteristics about these features in databases. This relationship provides a means for GIS to locate, display, analyze, and model information.
Career Options
Career options for students who get a degree in GIS include: GIS technician, cartographer, CAD drafter, land survey technician, GIS analyst, geodesist, geographer, remote sensing analyst, senior CAD designer, GIS software engineer, survey manager, and GIS project manager.
Student Voice
Mohamad Hilal
Mohamad Hilal is an alumnus of Norco College who is currently a Senior at Cal Poly Pomona majoring in Civil Engineering and has been working at the County of Orange for two years.
“The first year I was involved in the surveying department where I did a lot of fieldwork and office work. The second year I became an intern in the design team in the county. Since this is my area of interest, I was able to excel and get involved in so many interesting projects,” said Hilal. “My senior project was focused on design and manufacturing and I was the team lead in the structural analysis where I created a 3D model on SAP 2000. In addition, I was involved in reviewing the work of my colleagues and implementing all the designs in SAP.”
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Academic Programs in Geographic Information Systems
The academic maps below will give you an idea of the classes you need to take. However, please meet with a counselor to personalize your education plan.
School Trailhead for Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM)
Suggested Initial Coursework
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Associate of Arts (AA) Degree - Area of Emphasis (AOE)
in Math & Science - CSU Pathway
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Program Flyer (Pre-Engineering)
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Program Flyer (Engineering Graphics)
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Guaranteed Engineering Transfer Pathway to UC Riverside
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Additional Resources
Riverside Community College District General Education (RCCD GE) Requirements (PLAN A)
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California State University General Education (CSU GE) Requirements (PLAN B)
For students who would like to transfer to a campus in the California State University (CSU) system
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Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) Requirements (PLAN C)
For students who would like to transfer to a campus in either the California State University (CSU) or University of California (UC) system
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Contact Information
Chair
Paul Van Hulle
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| Dean
Ashley Etchison
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Instructional Department Specialist
Melissa Olivieri
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| Admin. Assistant to the Dean
Martha Ramirez
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Full-Time Faculty
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VACANT
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