Bachelor of Science - Earth Sciences - GIS/Planning Option

Program Description

The department offers a Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences degree which may be earned in any one of five options (Geography, Geographic Information Science/Planning, Geology, Paleontology, and Snow science).

GIS/Planning Option

The GIS (Geographic Information Science)/Planning Option in the Department of Earth Sciences is designed to offer students a mix of technical skills and academic training that prepares them for careers in local, state, and federal planning as well as opportunities in private consulting firms that are involved in the planning process. The GIS/Planning Option recognizes the growing importance of Geographic Information Systems and Science in our society and how these analytic tools are applied in a wide variety of settings. The GIS/Planning Option takes advantage of excellent GIS facilities, lab space, expertise, and software available on campus and allows students to learn in an active hands-on environment. Students are prepared as map makers (cartographers) spatial analysts, and planners. The Department of Earth Sciences has connections with various local, state, and federal planning agencies within Montana and throughout the West. As part of their training, students may also be able to take advantage of internship opportunities as a way to further prepare for a wide variety of professional careers within the fields of planning and resource management. The optimal degree for employment and advancement in the in GIS/Planning area is the Master's Degree, and this undergraduate option is an excellent preparatory degree for graduate study. Some students interested in college teaching or advanced research may require a Ph.D. degree.