Geospatial science is the study of spatially referenced data, i.e., information tied to a location determined by remote sensing (e.g., satellites), mapping, surveying technologies, or other approaches. Pairing your major with a minor in geospatial science prepares you for positions in climate change mitigation and adaptation, sustainability of natural resources (e.g., water, soil, mining, and mineral resources), disaster response, urban planning, energy production, carbon capture and storage, environmental protection, and more. Students will gain knowledge and skills in geography, geospatial systems thinking, and elementary programming, including the use and application of GIS and other geospatial software and other technical approaches (e.g., remote sensing).
Geospatial science lies at the intersection of the natural sciences, information technology, and society. Earth and environmental scientists make use of technical tools (including satellite remote sensing, Global Positioning Systems, and geographic information systems) to explore and understand Earth’s surface environment (topography, geology, biology, hydrology) and its changes through time. Geospatial science empowers individuals, organizations and communities to make informed decisions about societal interactions with the natural environment on topics including natural resource management, water quality and security, human health, renewable energy, mining, climate change, and impacts of natural hazards. Importantly, geospatial science provides tools to model and predict the outcomes of natural and anthropogenic challenges facing society, and thus to act both in response to environmental issues and proactively to mitigate them.
Students from any major or background interested in the "where", "how" and "why" on our planet, and in the information and tools needed to make decisions for a more just and sustainable future will be attracted to this minor.
Click on this link for the course requirements on the LSA Academics and Requirements website.
To Declare the Geospatial Science minor
To declare a Geospatial Science minor, make an appointment with a department undergraduate advisor. Students can declare the major in advance of completing all of the prerequisites. Visit Earth and Environmental Sciences Advising for contact information.
