Applied GIS (Geospatial Information Systems)

Geospatial Information Systems - GIS

A Geospatial Information System (GIS) is a computer-based tool used to create, store, manage, analyze, and display data that correspond to unique locations in space. A GIS usually contains many layers of information that describe the characteristics of the locations. Made up of hardware, software, data, people, and applications, a GIS can reveal hidden patterns, relationships, and trends that are not readily apparent with other forms of analysis. A skillfully planned and executed GIS conveys not only information, but also knowledge that is the key to successful decision-making and planning. GIS is currently being used by more than two million people around the world, and it impacts almost everyone on Earth.

The Global Positioning System - GPS

Because of a very close integration with GIS, we also include the Global Positioning System (GPS) in our GIS program. The Global Positioning System consists of satellites and ground stations that provide highly accurate latitude, longitude, elevation, timing, and other information for the entire surface of the earth. The integration of GIS and GPS affords the user precision, automation, programmability, and repeatability.

What Can GIS and GPS Do?

“A picture is worth a thousand words” is a great description of what a GIS can do. A GIS allows users to analyze and visualize information based on location. It extends traditional analytical processes to a higher level by relating data to locations in space. A GIS also allows the determination of interactions between and among those locations. Geospatial analyses can be simple and represent single factors, or they can be extremely complex and represent the interactions of many factors. In the end, even the most complex analyses can be presented to the end-user in the form of meaningful, easily interpreted graphics. The most common output of a GIS is in the form of maps, but output is limited only by the imagination and skill of the user. Integrated hardware and software now allow users to capture GPS data into a GIS in real time, from any location on earth. Navigational devices have been refined by a number of industries and are commonly seen everywhere from family cars and boats to tractors and aircraft. GIS and GPS are now being used in almost all aspects of life – from business and government to weather forecasting, home landscaping, and recreation.

GIS and GPS Projects

Faculty and students are actively involved in research and outreach in GIS and GPS. Undergraduate and graduate research opportunities are always available and can be tailored to meet a student's specific needs. Collaborations across the TSU campus also afford students from other disciplines the opportunity to conduct GIS-based projects within their chosen major field. Please visit our GIS Projects page to see what we're doing.

For More Information contact Dr. S. Singh.

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MAJORS

B.S. in Agricultural Sciences
with concentration in Geospatial Information Systems

Graduate Certificate
in Geospatial Information Systems 

RESEARCH  

Web-based evapotranspiration, biomass, and air quality remote sensing tool