Geographic Information Systems Proficiency Certificate

GIS is a computerized database management system for capture, storage, retrieval analysis and display of geographic information. The new and fast growing field enables organizations to be more efficient in planning and distribution of resources. GIS has a wide range of applications for corporate, nonprofit and government settings.

The GIS proficiency certificate is designed for individuals who have an interest in a career in GIS, enhancing their skills, learning to use GIS applications in their current profession, or to earn an additional credential. Students will develop basic proficiency with industry standard software.

Career Options

Careers

Find your path.

Geographer – est. salary $78,804
Geographic Information Systems Technicians – est. salary $91,434
Mapping Technician – est. salary $43,706
Remote Sensing Technician – est. salary $102,458
Urban and Regional Planners – est. salary $74,995*

 

**EMSI Data, 2019; Philadelphia County, PA; a percentage of people in these jobs may have a bachelor's degree or higher.
map animation where the the Community College of Philadelphia is centered, the map zooms out to show the surrounding counties highlighted representing the areas of job and career growth.
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Videos & Multimedia

Student working on computer at Community College of Philadelphia.
CCP student learning about GIS in computer lab.
Student learning about Geographic Information Systems in a class at CCP.
CCP student using a book and computer to learn about Geographic Information Systems.

Courses and Completion Sequence

The following courses and sequence of courses is designed for the optimal success and completion of the Geographic Information Systems Proficiency Certificate degree/certificate. Any alterations should be discussed with your academic advisor.

Select 3 of the following courses

Course Number and Name Prerequisites Credits
GIS 101 - Introduction to Geographic Information Systems   3 credits
GIS 102 - Intermediate Geographic Information Systems GIS 101 3 credits
GIS 104 - Principles of Computer Cartography and Visualization GIS 101 3 credits
GIS 201 - Advanced Geospatial Applications GIS 102 3 credits
GIS 203 - Remote Sensing and Global Positioning Technologies GIS 101 3 credits
GIS 206 - Introduction to Web GIS GIS 201 3 credits

General Education Requirements:

All general education requirements necessary for graduation are met through the courses in the program as indicated above. Students who wish to take courses that differ from the general education courses indicated above must complete a course substitution request form. To access the form, login to the MyCCP portal, and in the Student tab, under Electronic Forms, click on the Records and Registration Forms link, then choose Request For Course Substitution Of Graduation Requirement link. A more detailed explanation of the College’s general education requirements is also available.

View the College Catalog for More Information

Featured Career

Urban and Regional Planner

Develop comprehensive plans and programs for use of land and physical facilities of jurisdictions, such as towns, cities, counties and metropolitan areas.

Median Salary
$87,798
Number of Jobs
216 
in the region
10 Year Job Outlook
+8.7%
in the region

Typical Tasks

  • Hold public meetings with government officials, social scientists, lawyers, developers, the public, or special interest groups to formulate, develop, or address issues regarding land use or community plans.
  • Design, promote, or administer government plans or policies affecting land use, zoning, public utilities, community facilities, housing, or transportation.
  • Advise planning officials on project feasibility, cost-effectiveness, regulatory conformance, or possible alternatives.
  • Recommend approval, denial, or conditional approval of proposals.
  • Discuss with planning officials the purpose of land use projects, such as transportation, conservation, residential, commercial, industrial, or community use.

How well does it pay?

New workers generally start around $54,047. Normal pay for Urban and Regional Planners is $87,798 per year, while highly experienced workers can earn as much as $125,756.

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Program Information

Geographic Information Systems Proficiency Certificate

Degree Type:

Proficiency Certificate

Credits Needed to Graduate:

9

Online Learning Availability:

30% or Greater

Related Programs:

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