Course Description
Computer programming skills tailored to the needs of advanced users of geographic information science (GIS) are developed, including customization of GIS applications with academic and commercial programming tools. Topics include GIS user-interface design, advanced functions and tools coding, fundamental spatial data structures and algorithms, and geospatial database management.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Graduate students will be assigned additional reading and
discussion activities, more complex analytical and writing
assignments, and additional questions on tests.
Athena Title
Programming for GIS
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in GEOG 4590E or GEOG 6590E
Undergraduate Prerequisite
GEOG 4370/6370-4370L/6370L or permission of department
Graduate Prerequisite
GEOG 4370/6370-4370L/6370L or permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Students will develop geographic information science programming skills which are essential for both academic research and practical applications relevant to business, industry, and governmental users. Students will gain practical experience with a suite of geographic information system software packages, including programming skills for routine customization. Students will master fundamental elements of logic that structure and guide programming activities in the geographic information sciences. This course satisfies the Computer Literacy and Critical Thinking General Learning Activities, through its emphasis on geographic information science programming skills and exploration of the logic which underpins these skills.
Topical Outline
1) Introduction to programming with objects 2) Python scripting from Model Builder 3) Scripts in GIS with Python 4) GIS customization for the interface and application 5) Basic VBA operations to customize application 6) Basic ArcObjects operations. 7) Advanced ArcObjects operations 8) Final project development