Student Experience

Learn both theory and practical skills

Students in Geographic Information Systems program at Algonquin College in Ottawa, Canada learn both theory and practical skills in a dedicated computer lab. In the final semester, students apply what they’ve learned to a particular task in the independent GIS Project Course. Students are partnered with external industry or government sponsors, who help define the scope and oversee the project as it evolves. This course has also helped students establish contact with potential employers.

Learn on industry-standard software

Beyond class time, students have evening, night-time, and weekend access to our dedicated GIS Lab, which includes 24 workstations featuring the latest GIS and Remote Sensing software. Students can access ArcGIS Pro (including all Extensions), AutoCad/AutoDesk Map, and ENVI Remote Sensing Image Processing. Software-development tools such as Visual Studio Code are also provided.

Apply your GIS skills to an independent project

Students in the Geographic Information Systems program at Algonquin College participate in an independently study course, in which they apply their new GIS skills and techniques to a particular task. In the past, industry and government sponsors have been involved in the evolution or review of projects. This hands-on application is a successful strategy for getting your foot in the door with potential employers.

In your first semester, you will identify an area of interest for your projects. In the second semester, you will develop a sound project proposal. Finally, during the third semester Project course, you will implement and complete your proposed project.

Testimonials

“This program delivers up-to-date training in a rapidly changing discipline.” – Federal Government GIS Employer

“This program is current and delivers up-to-date training in a rapidly changing discipline.”

“The best GIS course in the city bar none.” – Recent Graduate, Geographic Information Systems

“You will be attending the best GIS course in the city bar none, taught by some of the best and brightest in the whole of Canada, not just Ottawa.”

“You will need 100% of everything you do in this program.” – Recent Graduate, Geographic Information Systems