About Geographic Information System (GIS)

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a powerful tool used to analyze, manage, and visualize spatial data. This certificate program equips students with the skills necessary to apply GIS technology in fields such as urban planning, environmental science, and resource management. Students will learn how to use GIS software for mapping, spatial analysis, and decision-making, opening up numerous career opportunities in a rapidly growing field.

Certificate In Geographic Information System (GIS)

PROGRAM MISSION

 

The Certificate in Geographic Information System (GIS) offers additional expertise for Navajo environmental service and biology professionals, as well as students seeking to add GIS understanding and functional skills to their skill set. The program prepares graduates with technical GIS experience that allows them to use GIS both in the field and in the office.

ABOUT THE GIS PROGRAM

 

Geographic Information System (GIS) is a powerful tool used to analyze, manage, and visualize spatial data. This certificate introduces students to GIS principles, mapping technology, environmental data management, and spatial analysis. The Certificate in GIS equips students with the technical experience needed to support tribal, federal, and environmental agencies with field-based and computer-based geographic analysis.

NOTE: Students are not eligible for Title IV Financial Aid in this program.

PROGRAM GOALS

 
  1. Provide foundation and advanced GIS skills aligned with Navajo Nation environmental and resource management needs.
  2. Build student competency in GIS software, geospatial data handling, and spatial analysis for real-world problem solving.
  3. Promote professional GIS skills that support environmental monitoring, mapping, and tribal resource planning.
  4. Prepare students for GIS-related employment or continued study in environmental science, geography, or geospatial technology.

PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES (DINÉ EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY ALIGNED)

 

Nitsáhákees (Thinking / Awareness)

  • Student can list and explain the main elements of a map.
  • Student can describe the difference between vector and raster data.
  • Student can demonstrate the concept of coordinate systems.
  • Student can write a short essay about a GIS‑related project of interest.
  • Student describes the evolution of paper maps to digital maps.
  • Student can query a map.
  • Student will discuss raster basics and analysis

Nahát’á (Planning / Process)

  • Student can find digital geographic data.
  • Student demonstrates professional behavior and work ethics.
  • Student can describe the importance of systematic use of GIS software and data.
  • Student can demonstrate use of a GPS unit.
  • Student synthesizes GIS‑related literature.
  • Student can create and edit feature data

Iiná (Living / Application)

  • Student uses GIS skills to address tribal environmental issues.
  • Student seeks proactive methods to address emerging environmental challenges.
  • Student prepares a poster of their mini‑research study.
  • Student pursues an environmental issue and applies GIS to resolve it.
  • Student is able to collect, process, edit, project, analyze, and present data using ArcGIS

Siihasin (Reflection / Assurance)

  • Student lists at least five (5) criteria necessary for GIS employment.
  • Student articulates how their academic training supports advanced study or GIS employment.
  • Student characterizes an environmental issue.
  • Student identifies tools necessary to study an environmental issue.
  • Student creates a class‑based presentation using GIS concepts.
  • Student presents their mini‑research at Chinle High School Vo‑Ed.

CURRICULUM ALIGNMENT (SUMMARY)

 

Program Learning Outcomes are introduced, reinforced, and assessed through the following GIS and environmental science courses:

  • CSC 110 – Intro to Computer Technology
  • ENV 101 – Intro to Environmental Science
  • ENV 105 – Climate Change for Tribal Peoples
  • ENV 160 – Intro to Geographic Information System
  • ENV 225 – Principles of Agroecology or GLG 101 – Physical Geology
  • ENV 230 – Environmental Sampling and Monitoring
  • ENV 295 – Geographic Information System with Lab
  • ENV 296 – Geodatabases and Spatial Analysis
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS Credits
CSC 110 – Intro to Computer Technology 3
ENV 101 – Intro to Environmental Science 4
ENV 105 – Climate Change for Tribal Peoples 4
ENV 160 – Intro to Geographic Information System 3
ENV 225 – Principles of Agroecology or **GLG 101 – 4
ENV 230 – Environmental Sampling and Monitoring 4
ENV 295 – Geographic Information System with Lab 4
ENV 296 – Geodatabases and Spatial Analysis 4
TOTAL PROGRAM CREDITS 30

NOTES:

  • All courses must be passed with a grade of “C” or higher.
  • Students are not eligible for Title IV Financial Aid in this certificate.

About Geographic Information System (GIS)

The Certificate in GIS is intended to offer additional expertise for Navajo environmental service and biology professionals and students who seek to add an understanding and functional knowledge of Geographic Information System (GIS) to their skill set the program will prepare graduates with technical experience in GIS that will allow them to use GIS both in the field and in the office.

NOTE: Student will not be eligible for Title IV Financial Aid in this certificate program.

Program Disclosure
Program RequirementsCredits
Semester I
ENV 101 Introduction to Environmental Science4
ENV 160 Introduction to Geographic Information System3
ENV 225 Principles of Agroecology with Lab4
ENV 230 Environmental Sampling and Monitoring4
Semester II
ENV 295 Geographic Information System with Lab4
ENV 296 Geodatabases and Spatial Analysis4
CSC 110 Introduction to Computer Technology3
ENV 105 Climate Change for Tribal People4
GLG 101 Indigenous Physical Geology4
Program Credits30

The U.S. Department of Education requires colleges to disclose a variety of information for any financial aid eligible program that “prepares students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation”. The information provided describes the graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information regarding gainful employment for the latest completed academic year as of July 1st.

Program Classification of Instructional Program (CIP) Code
Code Title
45.0702 Geographic Information Science and Cartography
Program Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code Code Title
11.9199 Managers, All Other
17.1021 Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
25.1064 Geography Teachers, Postsecondary

DEAN'S OFFICE

James Tutt
Dean of School of STEM
1 Circle Drive, Route 12
Tsaile, Arizona 86556
(928) 724-6938
jmtutt@dinecollege.edu

Nesbah Kahn
Administrative Assistant
nkahn@dinecollege.edu
Room 123A
Gorman Classroom Building (GCB)
Tsaile Campus

Mail to:
Diné College: School of Science,
Technology, Engineering & Math
1 Circle Dr. | Tsaile, AZ 86556

Phone: (928) 724-6936

Dr. Shazia Tabassum Hakim, Ph.D., SCCM (MLS) CCM 
Acting Dean, School of STEM
Tuba City Campus

Phone: (928) 283-5113 ext. 07520
Research Labs: 7538, 7539
Email: stabassum@dinecollege.edu
Selina Yazzie
Administrative Assistant
Tsaile Campus

Phone: 928-724-6731
Email: syazzie@dinecollege.edu