GSS Minor

Minor in Geospatial Sciences (GSS) 19-20 Credits

Geospatial Sciences is used in a wide range of disciplines as a research tool, a decision-making tool, data analysis tool, and/or as a planning tool. One of the major tools used in these analyses is Geographical Information Systems (GIS) software. The Minor in Geospatial Sciences is a flexible undergraduate minor that allows students drawn from a broad spectrum of backgrounds to acquire the necessary training in geospatial analysis to complement their area of study. Students will receive training in the use of Geographical Information System software and may choose from several electives to broaden their experience in geospatial sciences.  

Requirements for the Minor in Geospatial Sciences (GSS):      
No more than two courses that are used to satisfy your major can be applied to this minor.

• No more than one three-credit course in the minor may be taken under the Pass/No Credit option.
• All upper-division courses offered for the minor must be passed with a letter grade of C or higher. Completion of the minor requires 19 - 20 credits.

Required introductory courses: 7 credits

GSS 105 - Introduction to Maps and Mapping
(3 credits; DEC F) :An introduction to the study and design of map formats, symbology, coordinate systems, and how maps record the historical patterns of human behavior. The course will also examine maps as a tool to analyze human activity and societal development, and include important aspects of map data collection, processing, the Global Positioning System (GPS), quantitative mapping, and GIS-based mapmaking techniques.

AND

 GSS 313 - GIS Design and Applications I  (4 credits)

 Plus one course from either of the two spatial areas:

GIS:

GSS 325 - Design and Applications II   or 

Remote Sensing:

GEO 440 - Geological Applications of Remote Sensing or

MAR 334 - Remote Sensing of the Environment

Required three elective courses (9-10 credits)

ANT 420/GEO 420 - Environmental Analysis Using Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems

BIO 319 - Landscape Ecology Laboratory

GEO 440 - Geological Applications of Remote Sensing

GSS 323 GIS Database and Design

GSS 325 - GIS Design and Applications II

GSS 326 GIS Project Management

GSS 487 Geospatial Science Research (see Note)

GSS 488 Geospatial Science Internship (see Note)

MAR 334 - Remote Sensing of the Environment

Note: A maximum of three credits of GSS 487 Geospatial Science Research and/or GSS 488 Geospatial Science Internship may be applied to the minor.

Declaration of the Minor

Students should declare the Geospatial Sciences minor no later than the middle of their sophomore year, at which time they should consult with the minor Faculty Director to plan their course of study for fulfillment of the requirements.

For more information on GSS, please visit : Geospatial Sciences at Stony Brook