Bachelor of Science - Geographic Information Science and Technology

Careers in geographic information science and technology (GIST) are among the top three fastest-growing fields nationwide as reported by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Geospatial job market growth rests upon a broad knowledge base of geospatial technology (computer cartography, digital mapping, GPS, satellite and aerial remote sensing) and comprehensive, geographic literacy (understanding people, places and the environment).

The GIST program provides a state-of-the-art foundation for a career in applying geographic information systems (GIS) and all these related technologies towards a vast array of potential careers, including cartographer, GIS analyst, computer mapping, photogrammetrist, surveyor, public works and utilities engineering, urban and regional planning GIS, environmental managers/scientist/engineer, and site location and market suitability analysts. GIS is often the behind-the-scenes infrastructure in everyday life, supporting our water, electricity, transportation business operations, and every other facet of civilization. It is also used to do market research, navigate and route traffic (MapQuest, GoogleMaps, Yahoo, etc.), and perform many daily activities that are often taken for granted (bus routes, school attendance zones, mobile phone location-based services).

ECU's GIST program provides a cutting-edge program in all these technologies of GIS, remote sensing, cartography, GPS and computer science (including the information technology to design, plan and implement GIS). In addition, several advanced areas of application are available, such as coastal and marine GIS, terrestrial laser scanning and advanced computer cartography. The program is strongly linked to demand for highly trained geospatial analysts and encourages active participation in internship and applied research projects, including private business, nonprofits, environmental groups and foundations, local, state and federal government agencies, and the military.