This program is only available for contract (i.e. for employers who wish to commission and fund an exclusive cohort of the program for their employees). If you'd like to learn more about this program, please contact us by submitting the form on the left of this page. Thank you!

A geographic information system (GIS) merges cartography, statistical analysis and database technology to capture, store, analyze, manage and present data with reference to geographic locations. GIS technology is used in fields ranging from archaeology, criminology and marketing to environmental-impact analysis, natural resource management and urban planning.

The demand for skilled GIST professionals is growing exponentially. CSUN's 12-month graduate certificate program is designed to

  • equip college graduates who have at least one year of professional experience in GIST or a related field with the cutting-edge skills and capabilities needed for success as public- or private-sector GIST professionals and
  • enable current GIST professionals to upgrade their skills and increase their relevancy.

Offered in collaboration with the Department of Geography in CSUN's College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, this program features hands-on experience with the most sensitive and current technologies and is taught by faculty who have years of experience in the field.

Designed for working professionals, the 18-unit GIST program features a convenient schedule and is offered in the cohort format, which maximizes interaction with faculty and fosters the development of valuable networking relationships with fellow participants.

In addition, because this program was designed to complement CSUN's Master of Public Administration (MPA) program, participants may apply their GIST graduate-certificate credits toward satisfaction of the MPA degree requirement, should they choose to enter that program.