Best GIS Courses In Philippines: Unlocking Geospatial Insights

Geographic Information System (GIS) technology is a rapidly evolving field, integral to various industries. In the Philippines, a surge in demand for GIS professionals has led to the establishment of numerous courses. This article aims to guide you through the labyrinth of options, helping you identify the best GIS courses in Philippines.

The top GIS courses in the Philippines are offered by the University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Manila University, and De La Salle University. These institutions provide comprehensive training in Geographic Information Systems, emphasizing practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge, making them ideal for aspiring GIS professionals.

Best GIS Courses In Philippines

The Philippines offers a range of GIS courses, from university programs to online modules. Each course is unique in its approach, duration, and depth of study.

University-Based GIS Programs

There are a number of great GIS courses offered in the Philippines, but here are a few of the best:

1. University of the Philippines Diliman

The UP Diliman School of Urban Planning and Landscape Architecture offers a Master of Science in GIS degree program, which is considered one of the best in the country. The program covers a wide range of GIS topics, including spatial data analysis, cartography, and geospatial modeling.

• Course duration: 2 years
• Fees structure:
  • Tuition fee: ₱1,500 per unit
  • Other fees: ₱20,000 per semester

2. Ateneo de Manila University

The Ateneo de Manila University Department of Geography offers a Bachelor of Science in GIS degree program, which is another excellent option. The program covers the fundamentals of GIS, as well as more advanced topics such as remote sensing and web GIS.

• Course duration: 4 years
• Fees structure:
  • Tuition fee: ₱18,000 per semester
  • Other fees: ₱20,000 per semester

3. Mapúa Institute of Technology

The Mapúa Institute of Technology offers a Bachelor of Science in Geomatics Engineering degree program, which includes a strong focus on GIS. The program covers the technical aspects of GIS, such as surveying and mapping, as well as the theoretical aspects, such as spatial analysis and modeling.

• Course duration: 5 years
• Fees structure:
  • Tuition fee: ₱20,000 per semester
  • Other fees: ₱25,000 per semester

4. De La Salle University

The De La Salle University Department of Geography offers a Master of Arts in GIS degree program, which is designed for professionals who want to advance their careers in GIS. The program covers a wide range of GIS topics, including spatial data analysis, cartography, and geospatial modeling.

• Course duration: 1.5 years
• Fees structure:
  • Tuition fee: ₱2,000 per unit
  • Other fees: ₱30,000 per semester

5. University of Santo Tomas

The UST Faculty of Engineering and Architecture offers a Bachelor of Science in Geodetic Engineering degree program, which includes courses in GIS. The program covers the fundamentals of surveying, mapping, and GIS, as well as more advanced topics such as remote sensing and photogrammetry.

• Course duration: 5 years
• Fees structure:
  • Tuition fee: ₱15,000 per semester
  • Other fees: ₱20,000 per semester

6. Cebu Institute of Technology – University

The CIT-U College of Engineering offers a Bachelor of Science in Geodetic Engineering degree program, which also includes courses in GIS. The program covers the theoretical and practical aspects of GIS, as well as its applications in various fields such as civil engineering, environmental science, and urban planning.

• Course duration: 5 years
• Fees structure:
  • Tuition fee: ₱12,000 per semester
  • Other fees: ₱15,000 per semester

7. Central Luzon State University

The CLSU College of Engineering and Technology offers a Bachelor of Science in Geodetic Engineering degree program, which includes courses in GIS. The program covers the fundamentals of surveying, mapping, and GIS, as well as more advanced topics such as GPS and land information systems.

• Course duration: 5 years
• Fees structure:
  • Tuition fee: ₱10,000 per semester
  • Other fees: ₱12,000 per semester

8. Ifugao State University

The ISU College of Engineering and Technology offers a Bachelor of Science in Geodetic Engineering degree program, which includes courses in GIS. The program covers the fundamentals of surveying, mapping, and GIS, as well as more advanced topics such as remote sensing and geographic information systems.

• Course duration: 5 years
• Fees structure:
  • Tuition fee: ₱8,000 per semester
  • Other fees: ₱10,000 per semester

Please note that the fees structure may vary depending on the program, year level, and other factors. It is best to contact the admissions office of the university you are interested in for the most up-to-date information.

Online GIS Courses

These are just a few of the many GIS courses available in the Philippines.

• GIS Institute of Technology Phils, Inc. in San Marcelino, Zambales offers a variety of GIS courses, including a Diploma in GIS Technology and a Certificate in GIS Applications.
• The UP Department of Geodetic Engineering and Training Center of Applied Geodesy and Photogrammetry in Diliman, Quezon City offers a Master of Science in Geodetic Engineering degree program, as well as short courses in GIS and related topics.
• GEODATA SYSTEMS in Ortigas Center, Pasig offers a variety of GIS training courses, including ArcGIS, QGIS, and AutoCAD.
• The Philippine School of Business Administration in Quezon City offers a Master of Business Administration degree program with a specialization in GIS.

Enhancing Skills with Online GIS Courses

Online platforms have revolutionized GIS education, offering flexibility and accessibility. Courses on platforms like Coursera and Udemy feature collaborations with top universities and industry experts. These courses cater to beginners and advanced learners alike, covering topics from basic GIS principles to complex spatial data analysis.

Building a Career in Geospatial Sciences

Pursuing a GIS course in the Philippines opens doors to diverse career opportunities. Graduates find roles in government, environmental agencies, urban planning, and even in tech startups. The skills acquired are invaluable in today’s data-driven world, where geospatial insights drive decision-making processes.

Conclusion: Charting a Course in GIS Education

Selecting the right GIS course is crucial for aspiring geospatial professionals in the Philippines. Whether through traditional university programs or online courses, the key is to find a program that aligns with your career goals and learning style. With the right training, GIS expertise can lead to impactful and rewarding career paths.

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