Have you ever wanted to work with mapping? If you have a passion for maps, geography, and data, then there are a lot of career opportunities for you. And it all starts with a GIS certificate. This article discusses the various GIS certificates available, what they entail, and how they can benefit you in your future endeavours.
What is a GIS Certificate?
A GIS certificate is a degree or certificate that will teach you geospatial skills, such as how to use mapping software, spatial statistics, geospatial analysis, and more.
A GIS certificate is an education credential that qualifies the holder to work in a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) or similar position. GIS certificates offer a way for students to learn about Geographic Information Systems and related fields without committing to a full degree program.
Certificates are often acquired through formal courses at colleges or universities or by studying on your own through self-study materials.
Read More: 9 Amazing Careers That Require A GIS Degree
Types of GIS Certificates Available
Many people are now starting to use GIS (Geographic Information Systems) for work, school, or personal projects. The different types of GIS certificates below can be useful for students who want to learn more about this technology.
There are 3 types of GIS certificates that you can choose from. Understanding the differences between them will help you decide which one is best for your needs.
- Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP)
- ESRI Technical GIS Certification
- Online GIS Certification Programs
#1. Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP)
GISP is a comprehensive certification that will help professionals in the GISP industry to work for their clients more efficiently and effectively.
GISP stands for Geographic Information Systems Professional and it is a certification offered by the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI). The GISP certification provides standards-based examinations and requirements for those who want to work as GIS professionals.
GISP Certification Requirements:
Education: You need to meet the education requirement before you apply for GISP Certification. Degree or Certificates required, An Online Portfolio required for review.
Experience: At Least 4 Years of full-time geospatial experience required.
Contributions: Contribution to GIS Publication, GIS Conference Participation, GIS Awards Received, GIS Volunteer Efforts and other GIS Related Contributions.
Examination: You have to pass the GISCI Geospatial Core Technical Knowledge Exam.
Also, a Fee needs to be provided to appear in the Exam and after you pass, a GISP certification will be provided to you.
#2. ESRI Technical GIS Certification
The ESRI Technical Certification is the best way to show your knowledge and skills with ArcGIS products. The certification will provide you with a better understanding of what to expect in the workplace or in a classroom environment.
Passing this certification, you will also show your confidence and commitment to succeed and become an important member of any team. ESRI Technical Certification is totally knowledge and exam focused.
ESRI Technical Certification has three domains:
Desktop Exam: The ArcGIS Associate exam tests your knowledge and experience with using ArcGIS to solve tasks and workflows. You should demonstrate proficiency with using ArcGIS to visualize, manage, and analyze geospatial data.
Developer Exam: The Esri ArcGIS Developer Foundation Exam is designed to test your understanding of how to use the ArcGIS system. You should have the skills to create apps, publish and manage content and user roles, authenticate and understand the different types of services.
Enterprise Exam: The ArcGIS Enterprise Administration Professional exam is for candidates to have experience managing ArcGIS for enterprise organizations, using a portal or online. The qualified candidates should be experienced with best practices and uses of Esri’s Arc software.
You can also enhance your GIS skills through Esri’s MOOC Exams.
#3. Online GIS Certification Programs
There are many GIS certification programs available online that can be completed in a short span of time. These programs are usually offered by universities, government agencies, or private organizations that understand the need for GIS professionals in today’s world.
Some of the GIS Certificate Online Programs offered by University are:
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialization By the University of California.
- GIS, Mapping, and Spatial Analysis Specialization by the University of Toronto.
- Python for Everybody Specialization by the University of Michigan.
There are many benefits of an Free Online GIS Certification Program. One of the most important is the affordability of these programs. They are also convenient, with courses typically taking less time to complete.
How To Get GIS Certification?
There are a variety of ways to get your first GIS certification, and it all comes down to what you want out of your certification. The best way to get your first GIS certification would be through an online course, but if you want more hands-on experience, consider getting certified on the job.
- To get a GISP certification, you need to have at least four years of professional experience and have earned at least 30 points by taking courses from the GISP Educational Achievement Component.
- You should have at least eight points within Contributions Component. You will also need to pass the GISCI Geospatial Core Technical Knowledge Exam.
Is A GIS Certificate Worth It?
Are you curious about whether you should pursue a GIS certificate? I’ve got the answers to your questions right here.
The benefits of getting a GIS certificate are just as important as any other certification.
It helps the employee to expand their skill set and gives them a more diverse knowledge on a given topic which can help them in future jobs.
It is especially helpful for those who want to switch from another field to the GIS field. It helps them enter the market with a strong background in GIS and have an easier time finding a job.
GIS certificate also confirms that the holder has acquired some knowledge about GIS practices and applications, which employers find desirable.
How Much Does ESRI Certification Cost?
ESRI certification is a program that is designed to teach you how to use the Esri ArcGIS system. With this certification, you will be able to harness the power of the ArcGIS system and use it for effective data analysis.
The cost will vary depending on which route you choose to take (Core or Special Exam). If you choose Core Exam, it will cost you about $250.
Conclusion: GIS Certificate Program
A GIS certificate can be a great asset for your career in the future. Online courses are now available for people who need to balance their work and studies.
The GIS certificate program is strategically designed to help you acquire the knowledge, skills, and abilities that are most needed in today’s geographic information systems industry.
Many people are not aware of the power of earning an online GIS certificate.
FAQ:
What Are The Requirements To Get A GIS Certificate?
To get a GIS certificate, you will need to get a degree in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). You will also need to pass certain exams.
The requirements for obtaining a GIS certificate can vary depending on the type of certificate. But usually, you’ll need to have an undergraduate degree in cartography, geography, or geographic information systems. In some cases, you may be able to obtain a GIS certificate by taking an exam and working with GIS professionals.
Why is GIS Certification Important?
GIS certification is a way to show that you have a deep understanding of Geographic Information Systems. It is important for professionals who work in the GIS field and for people who want to use software such as ArcGIS or QGIS.