Advanced Diploma in Geographic Sciences
Program description on main NSCC site ››
Introduction:
Ready to add GIS, remote sensing and GPS technologies to your degree? Consider the GIS, Remote Sensing and GIS for Business concentrations in our Advanced Diploma in Geographic Sciences at COGS. These concentrations have been training people for exciting careers for over 25 years.
Course Overview
(Note, due to pending changes in courses, the course lists on nscc.ca are incorrect.)
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Geographic Sciences Diploma: Year One Courses |
Course Name |
Code |
Weight |
Summary |
Fundamentals of Remote Sensing and Digital Image Processing |
REMS 5001 |
75 hours |
This course is an introduction to the concepts, principles and applications of remote sensing technology. The
specification and use of airborne and space-borne imagery for the investigation of various earth resources and
environmental monitoring will be discussed. Applied learning opportunities will be provided in the laboratory and field
relating to the applications of remote sensing.
|
GIS and Spatial Data Analysis |
GISY 5004 |
90 hours |
This course is an introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, applications and data analysis.
Learners will gain experience in data input, processing, analysis, and final-map-product creation following technology
advancements and industry standards. The history of the technology, along with the interrelationship amongst GIS and
other sciences and technologies are also discussed. State-of-the-art GIS software will be used to carry out practical
assignments concerned with assembling and processing data from a variety of sources and formats.
|
GIS Database Fundamentals |
GISY 5003 |
60 hours |
This course introduces learners to principles and techniques of relational database design as applied to spatial
databases. While the basic concepts and theories of database will be introduced, the focus will be on applying technical
skills used in spatial-database implementation. Learners will gain a basic insight into database systems terminology and
issues facing database managers and analysts.
|
Introduction to Geodesy |
GEOM 5002 |
30 hours |
This course exposes learners to basic geodesy concepts and Global Positioning System (GPS) skills required to properly
handle geospatial data for the geomatics industry. Learners will become familiar with various aspects of GPS positioning
in both theory and project-based applications. The relationship between GPS techniques and datums/projections will be
explored as well as the accuracy of autonomous GPS. Commonly used quality-control techniques for maintaining the
integrity of computed positions will be demonstrated as well.
|
Mapping Fundamentals |
GEOM 5001 |
30 hours |
This course covers basic topics in geomatics that are essential to develop fundamental mapping skills in the geographic
sciences. Principles of cartography and spatial exploratory data analysis, as applicable to choropleth mapping topics, are
discussed. Learners explore hands-on activities providing opportunities to gain vital experience in basic map design,
reading, interpretation and analysis.
|
Programming Fundamentals for Geographic Sciences |
PROG 5000 |
90 hours |
This course is intended for those with minimal or no prior programming experience and exposes the learner to
object-based programming in various environments. Beginning with basic assignments and progressing toward
Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing (GIS/RS) related data manipulation; learners will apply
programming theory to a range of tasks.
|
Spatial Thinking |
GEOM 5003 |
30 hours |
This course focuses on spatial thinking, spatial perception, and the ways thinking and perception influence mental
mapping and spatial behaviour. Spatial thinking is a key component to the successful use of geospatial technology,
starting from designing projects to mapping and interpreting results.
|
Flexible Pathways for Our Learners
For more information (including typical job opportunities) for the three concentrations related to the Advanced Diploma in Geographic Sciences visit the following pages (under re-construction)
The Technologies:
GIS technologies provide data-management and analytical capabilities for data that are spatially referenced. GPS technologies provide data-collection and in the-field knowledge capabilities; and Remote Sensing technologies provide image processing and interpretation of satellite imagery and aerial photography. Business technologies integrate data-mining and other techniques for decision making. Here are some skills you´ll develop while at COGS:
Admission requirements
An undergraduate degree in a related field of study such as geography, forestry, geology, resource management, science, engineering, or computer science.
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