Geographic Information Sciences
I. JOB SUMMARY
Main Topic: Physical Geography
Secondary Topic: Geographic Information Science
Overview: GIS specialists uses computer based Geographic Information System (GIS) to analyze and display geographically referenced information from variety of data sources to maps and examine changes on the Earth. These specialists are responsible for creating interactive maps and visualizations. They also study spatial data that focus on identifying geographic trends and patterns across space and time. They use computer based tools such as Arc GIS that allows them to gather geospatial data from multiple sources, which includes satellite imagery and GPS recordings. The following are examples of GIS specialists job titles:
GIS Analyst: GIS analyst use GIS applications such as Arc GIS to understand spatial patterns and relationships between different datasets which are important for issues such as emergency management and resources management. NASA Earth Science division uses GIS data and analysis as a primary tool for analyzing Earth data but also for educating general public about the Earth and its geospatial changes. GIS analyst are responsible for collecting, storing, displaying, analyzing and sharing through GIS technology. NASA employs GIS analysts in different departments such as Earth Applied Sciences Disasters.
Geographers at work: Physical geographers, Geographic Information Scientists, Human Geographers, Cartographers.
Recommended College Courses: Physical geography, Geographic Information Science, Cartography, Human Geography.
Skills: Understanding of geographic computer applications and tools such as GIS, interpreting and manipulating massive amounts of data to determine the most likely outcomes, mathematics and statistical skills, geographic information systems, spatial skills and thinking and interpretation, computer and database systems, satellite imaging, analysis and interpretation, cartographic skills.
Occupation Group: Life, Physical and Social Science
Learn more about similar jobs related to Geographic Information Sciences from:
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/geoscientists.htm#tab-2
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/geographers.htm#tab-2
https://appliedsciences.nasa.gov/about/our-team/laura-phoebus
Written by Binay Thapa
II. POWERFUL GEOGRAPHIC KNOWLEDGE
