What is GIS?
GIS - Geographic Information Systems
GIS stands for Geographic Information Systems.
Well, what does that mean?
First of all, let's define Geography. Geography is much, much more than learning place names (as is most peoples' experience in school). It is the study of place, interaction, and consequence. It is a method of understanding relationships and processes in our world- both physical phenomenon as well as social and cultural.
Geography is the scientific study of the locational and spatial variation in both physical and human phenomena on Earth. ("Spatial" = relating to space or place.)
In other words, Geographers seek to understand not simply Where things or people are, but Why they are there, and How those people or phenomenon relate to each other.
And today, Geographers use a powerful tool to do this- GIS.
Geographic Information Systems allow us to map all kinds of data and to analyze the relationships between those data. It allows us to create dynamic maps to record and analyze:
- -- Populations
- -- Environmental Factors
- -- Goods and Services
- -- Utilities
- -- Hazards and Disasters
- ...and on and on.
GIS allows us to not only map and record information, but to analyze our data in new ways.
All fields are using GIS today. Training in GIS will provide you an edge in your field of study and teach you new computer and problem-solving skills.
Check out the GIS program at CNM today, as well as the degrees and certificates you can earn.
CNM Geographic Information Technology