The University of Washington Tacoma Urban Studies Program is launching a certificate program in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) this September.

The GIS certificate will provide learners with the ability to design and implement GIS approaches to spatial problem solving. It will also equip them with the skills necessary to pursue careers related to geographic information systems.

The program will benefit entry- and intermediate-level GIS users who lack formal education in geography or GIS. Faculty will also have access to the program as a graphics resource. As the program grows, it will help meet spatial analysis needs in the local community.

GIS systems help analyze and map data to solve spatial problems. Researchers use GIS to determine square footages, road conditions and proximity to wetlands or parks. The system also helps predict the effects of new construction, chemical spills and other events on a region.

The certificate program is a 24-credit series of courses beginning each autumn quarter. Students accepted into the program progress as a cohort for three consecutive quarters. Admission requirements include 90 quarter (60 semester) transferable credits which meet the Urban Studies General Education Requirements, cumulative college GPA of 2.5, a personal goal statement, resume and two letters of recommendation.

For more information or to download applications, visit the Urban Studies Website at:
www.tacoma.washington.edu/urban_studies/GIS.htm. Or contact Urban Studies at 253/692-5880. Application forms for autumn quarter 2003 are due by June 15.