This course introduces students to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the power of adding the dimension of location and place to data. GIS is often described simply as the Science of Where — helping us understand not only what is happening, but where, why there, and what those spatial patterns can tell us.

Throughout the semester, students will gain hands-on experience with ArcGIS Pro and the ArcGIS platform, working with real-world data to create maps, perform spatial analysis, geocode locations, query data using SQL, analyse spatial patterns and develop GIS-based solutions. We will also explore imagery, spatial statistics, web GIS, dashboards, automation and the rapidly developing field of GeoAI, where GIS, artificial intelligence and data science increasingly intersect.

The course is designed for students from a wide range of backgrounds. You do not need to become a GIS specialist to benefit from GIS. Whether your interests are in data science, AI, business, public health, cybersecurity, environmental studies, public policy or another field, learning to think spatially can provide an important new perspective on your data and research.

The course emphasises learning by doing. Along with classroom exercises and projects, students will have opportunities to participate in GIS-related activities outside the classroom, including Los Angeles County GIS Day, industry events and optional field activities such as the Mt Baldy Moonlight Hikes.

Prerequisite: Motivation. If you bring that, we can work on the rest.