Geographic information science (GIS) is increasingly important across a variety of industries, from climate science and agriculture to public policy and health. This innovative field combines modern technology and scientific techniques to help professionals analyze patterns in geo-spatial data. For a trained analyst, GIS provides a powerful tool to help solve complex problems.
The evolution and impact of GIS on the world provides the opportunity to pursue a variety of intriguing career paths, and Northwest Missouri State University’s online Master of Science in GIS program is a way for interested students to develop the vital skill sets necessary to pursue them. In this program, you will gain important technical skills and experience with both hardware and software, as well as studying innovative methods of capturing, processing, analyzing and visualizing data. It is also an opportunity to learn from faculty members with real-world experience and extensive ties to important industries — both keys to getting a successful start in the field.
What Is Geographic Information Science?
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, GIS is “a computer system that analyzes and displays geographically referenced information.” The core of GIS, and what makes it so useful across a broad range of fields and industries, is that it allows for the analysis and synthesis of different data that are attached to a unique location. This is possible because almost all information collected about the world has some kind of location reference.
The U.S. Geological Survey explains: “If, for example, a rare plant is observed in three different places, GIS analysis might show that the plants are all on north-facing slopes that are above an elevation of 1,000 feet and that get more than ten inches of rain per year.” As a result of this, maps using GIS data can then display locations in the area with similar conditions. In this theoretical case, researchers will, based on this data, know where they can look for more of the rare plants.
Real-world Applications of GIS
GIS data has many different use-cases depending on your chosen field. Many governments rely on GIS data to solve all sorts of urban planning problems. According to IBM, these include “zoning and land use projects, natural disaster and health event response, roadway system and building design, utility distribution, energy production, and waste and resource management.” A specific example is St. Johns County in Florida, which has been a leader in supporting public works projects through innovative applications of GIS data, according to Esri.
Another area where GIS makes a huge impact is in agriculture. “GIS technology makes productive, sustainable farming possible by providing accurate, comprehensive data,” IBM states. “Insights pertaining to land changes affecting crop health and where certain crops will grow better help improve decision-making and make crop management more efficient.”
The Future of GIS, Data Layers and Mapping
While GIS has seen substantial growth in its use in the last 30 years, it is expected to become even more important in future years, according to MGISS. Significantly, the technology will likely continue to evolve, and new ways of analyzing and visualizing GIS data emerge. “As data analysis, AR, automated devices, and other trends in GIS are reaching their peak all around the globe, more transformation is going to take place in the sectors using these technologies,” notes MGISS.
This growth will create new career opportunities for professionals with expertise in this vital field, and Northwest Missouri State University’s online Master of Science in GIS degree path is an ideal way to gain a solid foundation to succeed. With the advanced understanding offered by courses like Principles of GIS, which gives students a thorough background in fundamental GIS principles, graduates of the program will be well-prepared to make an impact on this data-driven future.
Learn more about Northwest Missouri State University’s online Master of Science in GIS program.
