Over the past year, you might have heard the news: FRCC now offers a Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) in Geospatial Science, one of the hottest industries in the world at the moment. In fact, Allied Market Research reports this field is projected to achieve a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) globally of 14.2 percent from 2020 to 2027.
It probably comes as no surprise, with AI-based geographic information system solutions in demand for just about every type of business. And with the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Allied Market Research’s report shares that demand for geospatial analytics has increased to keep track of patients, spread, transmission, and much more. Look at the Johns Hopkins University COVID-19 dashboard that has become the go-to reference for the pandemic. (It was built using Esri GIS technology, the industry standard, and also one technology taught at FRCC).
It’s a Good Time for a B.A.S. in Geospatial Science
If you’re interested in this field, your timing is good based on industry demand—and here at FRCC, we offer several programs in Geospatial Science:
- A four-year B.A.S. in Geospatial Science
- A two-year A.A.S. in Geospatial Science
- Two progressive short-term certificates:
So, what is geospatial science? You might be more familiar with the term geographic information systems, which is one type of geospatial technology. According to the American Association for the Advancement of Science, there are several types of tools that make up this type of technology:
- GIS – A suite of software tools for mapping and analyzing data that is georeferenced.
- Remote sensing – Imagery and data collected from space-based or airborne cameras and sensor platforms.
- Global positioning systems (GPS) – A network of U.S. Department of Defense satellites that can give precise coordinate locations to civilian and military users.
- Internet mapping technologies – Software programs like Google Earth that are available to a wide range of audiences.
Many Career Possibilities
Geospatial science is used in various occupations. You could work on creating maps and systems to monitor wildlife habits … or natural resources … or environmental influences (like pollutants and toxins) … or the impact that a global pandemic has on people’s movements.
Geospatial science is part of lots of industries: geology, cities and municipalities, urban development, environmental science, engineering, fire protection, public health, and more. You could work as an analyst, geospatial architect, geospatial analyst, GIS specialist, planning technician, water resources engineer, mapping technician or something similar.
As we wind down 2020, it’s clear that businesses, governments, and organizations everywhere need the ability to track and monitor people and their movements. This furthers the demand for professionals with geospatial experience and education.
Attend an Online Information Session
If you like the sound of our degree and/or certificate programs and want to learn more, attend an online information session. The next one is at noon MST Saturday, Dec. 12. There’s also one at noon MST Jan. 9, 2021. Register online, and in the meantime, you can contact Geospatial Sciences Program Lead Jennifer Muha.
