Geographic Information Systems Technology

Associate Degree Program

GIS is a computer-based tool that is used to help analyze data with a geographic reference. The GPS navigation systems in our cars and on our smart phones is just one example of how modern day society has come to rely on GIS technology. In fact, GIS is now being used by government, utility companies, first responders, health care professionals, transportation and urban planners to make better, faster and more cost effective decisions. As a result, there is a growing need for GIS technicians who can help others use, build, maintain, and modify GIS databases.

If working with the latest software applications, analyzing data, and producing graphs and maps sounds interesting to you, consider Delaware Tech’s Geographic Information Systems Technology associate degree program. You’ll learn the general and technical aspects of geography and geospatial technologies and gain practical experience in building, maintaining, modifying, and using GIS databases; data analysis; custom application development; and visual communication.  Students may pursue three specializations within the GIS program: surveying, criminal justice, or environmental science.

As the only GIS undergraduate degree program in Delaware, Delaware Tech’s GIS program provides you with the skills needed to be successful in the emerging geography and geospatial technology career fields. 

This program is offered at the Stanton campus.

What You Can Do

In this program, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to prepare you for such positions as:

• GIS Technician
• GIS Specialist
• Cartographer
• Mapping Technician
• GPS/GIS Field Operator

What You Will Earn

Starting annual salaries range from $30,000 to $39,999.

What You Will Learn

Program Graduate Competencies

The Program Graduate Competencies listed below identify the major learning goals related to your specific program of study and identify the knowledge and skills you will have when you graduate to be successful in your chosen field.

1. Apply knowledge, techniques, and skills of geography and geospatial technologies such as geographic information systems (GIS), Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), and remote sensing (RS).
2. Employ cartographic design principles to develop effective visual representations of geospatial data, including maps, graphs, and diagrams.
3. Design and implement GIS systems using common geospatial software and hardware to acquire, store, manage, analyze, and visualize spatial data for a variety of disciplines.
4. Utilize geospatial techniques and common analytical methods to solve problems.
5. Evaluate and employ effective data management and database design techniques.
6. Apply fundamental concepts of programming, application development, geospatial information technology, and related technologies.
7. Integrate a commitment to address professional and ethical responsibilities, including a respect for accuracy standards and diversity.
8. Recognize the need for and an ability to engage in self-directed continuing professional development.

Core Curriculum Competencies

The Core Curriculum Competencies listed below identify what you will be able to do as a graduate, regardless of your program of study. You will acquire these core competencies through general education courses and program-specific coursework. You will be expected to use relevant technology to achieve these outcomes:

1. Apply clear and effective communication skills.
2. Use critical thinking to solve problems.
3. Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
4. Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
5. Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
6. Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.