GGIS - University of Illinois, GEO - Michigan State University, GEOG - Pennsylvania State University
GGIS 403 Geographic Information Science and Systems (4 cr.) Introduces the fundamentals of Python programming for geographic analysis and a survey of GIS concepts to prepare non-geographers for further GIS studies. Suitable for students with no prior experience in programming or GIS.
GGIS 473 Digital Cartography & Map Design (4 cr.)Instruction and practice in the basic techniques of map making followed by a consideration of problems involved in the construction of maps for presentation in a reproduced form (i.e., printed, photographed); the selection of proper source materials for the base and body of the map, the compilation and correlation of these materials, and methods of mechanical and photographic reproduction. 4 undergraduate hours. 4 graduate hours. Prerequisite: GGIS 379 or consent of instructor.2024 Syllabus
GGIS 517 Geospatial Visualization & Visual Analytics (4 cr.) Alternative methods to GIS for geospatial data visualization and interaction. Introduces software Tableau or D3.js depending on instructor preference. Does not require previous design experience. 2025 Syllabus
GGIS 427/495 Geospatial Artificial Intelligence Literacy (4 cr.) Spatial AI methods through the lens of algorithmic fairness, environmental justice, and democratic governance. Students develop technical competency in machine learning, spatial statistics, and deep learning while critically examining how these tools can perpetuate or challenge spatial inequities. Through hands-on labs and community-engaged case studies, students learn to evaluate AI bias, implement fairness-aware algorithms, and design transparent, accountable geospatial AI systems that serve all communities equitably. 2026 Syllabus
GGIS 570 Advanced Spatial Analysis (4 cr.) Advanced statistical methods of geospatial data including spatial regression, geographically weighted regression, geographically weighted random forests, and other similar methods. Previous statistical courses is recommended. 2025 Syllabus
GEO 326 Cartographic Design and Production An introduction to cartographic methods with a focus on design in ArcGIS Pro.
GEO 426 Thematic Cartography Advanced course in cartography focusing on current research areas including human cognition and perception. Advanced design methods using Adobe suite of products.
GEO 806 Geospatial Object Based Image Analysis (GEOBIA) Advanced remote sensing course covering object-oriented analysis methods in eCognition.
GEO 986 Theories and Philosophies in Geography Historical development of the discipline within social and intellectual contexts. Philosophical approaches behind geographic research and theory.
GEOG 160 Mapping Your Changing World Introduction to general geospatial technologies and maps. Course was open to non-majors and majors fulfilling general education requirements. Course update completed in collaboration with Joshua Stevens, Jennifer Mason, Donna Pequet, and Alan MacEachren in 2012.