UMaine Makes Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems Available Online

March 6, 2002

ORONO– Planners, engineers and other professionals who want to specialize

in geographic information system (GIS) technology without leaving home or taking

time for an advanced degree can now obtain a graduate certificate in GIS at

the University of Maine.

The Graduate Board at UMaine approved the program last fall. It includes a

minimum of 16 credits in core courses and electives offered by the Department

of Spatial Information Science and Engineering. Additional electives from other

departments may be included. Some of the courses are being “webcast”

already, and faculty plan to videotape all lectures in the future for distribution

through UMaine’s Continuing Education Division.

The program is designed primarily to allow graduate students to gain technical

expertise in the use and development of geographic information systems. It will

also provide flexibility through online education offerings to allow practicing

professionals who can’t take time off to return to school to pursue the specialty.

Completing the certificate program will give graduate students proficiency

in the technical skills required for designing and implementing a geographic

information system. GIS technology combines maps with information databases

that contain details about specific locations. A growing package of spatial

technologies that include GIS are used in a variety of fields including energy,

telecommunications, natural resources, emergency response and government.

Media contacts: Kate Beard, Spatial Information Science and Engineering, 207-581-2147;

Nick Houtman, Dept. of Public Affairs, 207-581-3777