Brookings Main Campus
Online
Chart a course.
Study human-environment interactions and learn geospatial technologies like cartography, remote sensing and computational analysis. The major allows students to gain hands-on experience with computerized Geographic Information System (GIS) that integrate hardware, software and data for capturing, managing, analyzing and displaying all forms of geographically referenced information. GIS allows researchers to work with data in many ways that reveal relationships, patterns and trends in the form of maps, globes, reports and charts. Graduates of this program are prepared to apply their geographic knowledge and technical skills to address problems related to global climate change, regional planning and development, natural resources and much more.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Have a genuine curiosity about the world.
- Enjoy both the hard sciences and social sciences.
- Like to learn about different places and cultures.
- Like working with technology.
- Are a problem solver and analytical thinker.
Career Opportunities
- Geographic information systems analyst
- Urban planner
- Intelligence analyst
- Remote sensing analyst
- Cartographer
Recent Employers
- EROS (Earth Resources Observation and Sciences) Center
- Fugro Geospatial
- IMS (Infrastructure Management Services)
- South Dakota BIT (Bureau of Information Telecommunications)
- Midcontinent (GIS Analyst)
Internship Opportunities
- EROS (Earth Resources Observation and Sciences) Center
- 1st Planning District (Watertown)
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory
- City of Henderson, Nevada
- Public Works Department, City of Mounds View, Minnesota
Suggested Certificates
Suggested Dual Majors
Suggested Minors
Suggested Accelerated Programs
Clubs and Organizations
- Geography Club
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.