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Site last updated: 04/09/2023

Mode of Study: Online | Hybrid | Blended | Face-to-Face
Programme Structure: Intensive Modular 
Study Duration: Six (6) Months 
Number of Credits: 20 

The Certificate Programme in GIS has been thoughtfully crafted to address the burgeoning demand for geospatial analysis and planning professionals not only in Guyana but on a global scale. This programme is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of GIS concepts, tools, and techniques, empowering them to proficiently manage, analyse, and interpret geospatial data for informed decision-making processes. This global perspective is rooted in a thorough examination of various critical documents, including the Local Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, National Geospatial Information Management Policy, Guyana National Land Use Plan, as well as international frameworks like the Sustainable Development Goals and the New Urban Agenda. These documents emphasise the paramount importance of collaborative efforts in shaping the present and future development of nations worldwide, recognising GIS as a vital operational tool. In this rapidly evolving world, GIS professionals are pivotal in shaping the sustainable future of not just Guyana but the entire globe. Join us in this global perspective journey and become a catalyst for positive change.

Aims of the Programme 

  • Developing foundational knowledge: The programme aims to introduce students to the fundamental principles and theories of GIS, including spatial data types, coordinate systems, data structures, and cartographic principles. It provides a solid understanding of GIS concepts and terminology.
     
  • Building technical skills: The programme aims to equip students with the necessary technical skills to effectively operate GIS software and tools. This includes learning to collect, edit, analyse, and visualise geographic data using GIS software packages such as ArcGIS, QGIS, or other industry-standard applications.
     
  • Understanding spatial analysis: The programme aims to teach students how to analyse geospatial data using GIS tools. This includes learning techniques for overlaying and combining spatial data layers, conducting proximity analysis, performing spatial statistics, and creating thematic maps to identify patterns and relationships in geographic data.
     
  • Applying GIS in various domains: The programme aims to provide students with hands-on experience in applying GIS to real-world problems across different domains. This could include urban planning, environmental management, transportation, public health, natural resource management, or any other field where geographic data plays a crucial role.
     
  • Developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills: The programme aims to cultivate analytical thinking and problem-solving skills specific to GIS. Students learn how to formulate spatial questions, design GIS projects, and effectively interpret and communicate results.
     
  • Preparing for career opportunities: The programme provides students with a recognised credential demonstrating their GIS knowledge and skills, which can be valuable in various industries and sectors that rely on geographic data analysis.

 

Why Choose FEES, UG? 

  • Skill Development: This programme offers an excellent opportunity to acquire valuable skills in Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
     
  • Career Advancement: Completing the Certificate in GIS can significantly enhance your career prospects.
     
  • Global Relevance: GIS is not limited to a specific region; it has global applicability.
     
  • Networking Opportunities: The programme provides a platform to connect with fellow students, faculty members and professionals in the field.
     
  • Affordable Tuition: In response to your question about fees, the Certificate in GIS programme at the University of Guyana offers a cost-effective way to gain GIS expertise.

 

  • Entry requirements are to be guided by the University of Guyana Regulations.
     
  • Candidates must have obtained at least five (5) subjects with grades I or II prior to 1998 or III from 1998 at the CXC/CSEC (General Proficiency) or GCE 'O' Level grades A, B, or C. Subjects must include English Language, Mathematics, Information Technology/ Electronic Documentation and Preparation Management and Biology/Geography/Integrated Science/Social Studies, or any other approved by the Faculty.
     
  • Candidates with any post-secondary education in earth, natural or social sciences. 
     
  • Candidates with a Secondary Trained Teachers Certificate (Social Studies) with at least a pass with credit.
     
  • Mature applicants (21 years and over) who do not possess these qualifications but have creditable work experience for three or more years. 

Computer Requirements

We set minimum basic computer requirements because your study resources are accessed via the Student Portal and it is vital that you can access this regularly.

  • Minimum Computer Hardware Requirements (Windows OS): 

CPU: Minimum: 2 cores, simultaneous multithreading
Platform: x64
Storage: Minimum: 32 GB of free space
Memory/RAM: Minimum: 8 GB
Screen resolution: 1024x768 or higher
 

 

The programme entails five courses; each will be delivered in a modular form over 4 to 6 weeks, comprising teaching, revision, and continuous assessment. For each course, the weighting will be 100% Continuous Assessment.

Courses

1. GIS 1001 - Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Cartography (3 credits)

This course provides a baseline of practical skills for applying map design and cartography. It first introduces students to the evolving paradigms within map making and map design. It allows students to learn the basic technical skills needed to prepare and design different types of maps using coordinate systems, measurement, scale, colour, and symbols. The course effectively incorporates using software applications such as Google Earth Pro, Google Maps, ArcGIS Pro, and ArcGIS Online to create, study and apply cartographic design and typography are studied and applied. The final sections of the course seek to merge all techniques learnt to create a usable map.

2. GIS 1002 – Field and Research Methods in GIS (4 credits)

In this course, students are exposed to a two-fold dimension of research. The first two sections emphasise the importance of comprehending methodologies and literature within GIS as means of developing writing skills. Further, academic writing is emphasised, which will directly connect to the work environment and the follow-on course GIS 1005. The course additionally fills a significant gap in data collection and management, pulling from social and physical science databases, field collection and data management in geodatabases, spreadsheets, data management systems (access) and computer database systems. The course aims to help students to master the basic skills for georeferencing, field observations and photos and to incorporate them into reports as well as websites for data sharing and communication.

3. GIS 1003 - Introduction to Spatial Analysis (4 credits)

This course introduces students to the basics of vector and raster data as the basis for spatial analysis. Data collection and management between attribute data and metadata will also be studied. Fundamental geoprocessing analyses such as buffer, clip and dissolve are introduced as critical tools to analyse noise pollution, flood extension, and species diversity. Further applications of 3D analysis and scripting are presented as an essential element in environmental and social mapping. Finally, Google Earth Engine and Q-GIS are introduced as renowned web and open-source GIS software for spatial analysis.

4. GIS 1004 - Foundations of Remote Sensing (3 credits)

This course introduces the basic principles of remote sensing for Earth observation and geospatial data analysis. Students will learn how to use remote sensing technologies to process and interpret images obtained from satellite sensors, prepare thematic digital maps using remote sensing techniques, and how to apply them in spatial analysis across a variety of applied practical fields in natural resource management and land use planning.

5. GIS 1005 - Problem-solving with GIS: Profile and Practice (6 credits)

This course acts as a capstone for the certificate programme. It covers the essentials of research and presentation while also providing the necessary skills to support report writing and oral presentation. Students will complete a comprehensive paper on a given GIS-related topic, a programme reflection, and a career review. This course is the final of five courses in the GIS certificate programme and together deliver technical, functional, mapping, and IT skills for GIS students to enable them to progress in the workforce or engage with further advanced programmes.

Graduation Requirements 

The Certificate will be awarded to students who have satisfied all of the relevant General University
regulations applicable. Overall performance in the Certificate programme will be classified as follows:

  • Pass with Distinction - students must obtain an overall average GPA of 3.4 to 4.0 out of 4.0
     
  • Pass with Credit - student must obtain an overall average GPA of 2.7 to 3.3 out of 4.0
     
  • Pass - student must obtain an overall average GPA of 2.0 to 2.6 out of 4.0
     
  • Students who obtain a GPA of less than 2.0 will be awarded a Certificate of Participation

*For a mature student, the completion of the certificate in GIS with a Pass with Distinction from the University of Guyana provides a strong case for admission to the MGIS/RS programme.
 

Local/Domestic Students

$ 600,000.00 GYD

CARICOM Student 

$ 4500.00 USD

International Student

$ 6000.00 USD

*Additional non-tuition fees 

**Connect with the Coordinator to learn about Payment Plans

***Changes may occur to the pricing structure
 

This programme has a huge potential for career development. In the first instance, this course can lead to studies in BSc Geography and then the MSc/Master in Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing. Upon completing the certificate programme, individuals can pursue various career paths, such as GIS analyst, GIS technician, GIS specialist, or GIS coordinator. These professionals play a crucial role in collecting, analysing and interpreting geospatial data, creating maps, and utilising spatial databases for a wide range of industries. They can work in government agencies, environmental organisations, urban planning departments, engineering firms, natural resource management, and many other sectors. With the increasing demand for geospatial technology and the integration of GIS in various fields, a certificate programme in GIS provides a solid foundation for a rewarding career that combines technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for spatial analysis. The Certificate in GIS could also allow the holder to pursue Professional Certification in GIS, called Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP).
 

Always contact the coordinator for details first. 

To apply, click here: https://turkeyenonline.uog.edu.gy/srms/student/prospective/application/login.php