MAPPING SCIENCES

GIS, remote sensing, cartography, field techniques
Spatial data: collection, curation, analysis, representation

A unique characteristic of geographers and earth scientists is their specialization in understanding and representing the world at multiple scales—from local to global. One way to represent the world, of course, is with maps. Today, geographers and geoscientists have a number of ways to create maps from cartography to GIS as well as through remote sensing and image processing. Technological innovations in Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), and drones have all expanded the ways in which students in our department can collect data. These tools along with cartographic software, GIS, and remote sensing allow students to experience innovative teaching and high quality field applications with geotechnologies.

At Shippensburg University, faculty teach courses and conduct research that focus on the applications of geospatial technologies and cartography (see course list below). Students with an interest in GIS, remote sensing, spatial data collection and analysis and cartography are encouraged to pursue a Geography major focusing on GIS, a minor in GIS (18 credit hours), or the GIS Certificate (12 credit hours). Additionally, many students in the Department of Geography-Earth Science pursue internships and careers in which application of geospatial technologies are a central focus.

Faculty:

Example Courses:

The department is continually updating our courses to keep them current and impactful for your future success. Official course descriptions are available in the university catalog here:
Undergraduate Earth Science | Undergraduate Geography
Graduate Earth Science | Graduate Geography

However, check with your instructor for the most up to date course outline and content as updates may be made.

Example Geography Courses (GEO)

GEO 202: GIS I: Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
GEO 339: Remote Sensing
GEO 352: Cartography
GEO 363: GIS II: Intermediate Geographic Information Systems
GEO 420: GIS III: Advanced Geographic Information Systems
GEO 425: Image Processing
GEO 440: Field Techniques
GEO 441: Quantitative Methods
GEO 450: Geography-Geology Field Studies
GEO 463: Applied Geophysical Imaging
GEO 517: Applied Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
GEO 530: Mapping Sciences