Bachelor of Applied Technology Geographic Information Systems

Credential:: Applied Degree
Program length:: 2 years
Location:: In person (Main Campus) or Online
International applicants:: Accepted PGWP eligible
Faculty:: School of Construction

Credit credentials

A credit credential includes courses with post-secondary credit applied.

These credits will be used towards your specific program and may be accepted towards a credential at SAIT or a different post-secondary institution.

The credit credentials include a bachelor's degree, applied degree, diploma, certificate and post-diploma certificate.

Bachelor Degree

SAIT has bachelor's degree programs in business, construction, and hospitality and tourism management.

Bachelor's degrees are generally four-year programs, but you have up to 10 academic years to complete your courses.

Applied Degree

SAIT's full-time applied degree programs involve one year of study through classes and lab work followed by one year of directed studies in a workplace setting. This builds on the completion of a recognized two-year diploma, which you must have to be admitted to an applied degree program.

You then have seven academic years to finish your applied degree, starting from the day you begin the first course in that program.

Diploma

At SAIT, over 40 full-time diploma programs cover a broad range of areas, from aircraft maintenance to travel and tourism.

Most diploma programs are completed in two years, though you can take up to seven academic years to complete the requirements.

Certificate

SAIT has several certificate programs in the sciences, health and trades.

These programs provide the essential skills to start a career but are shorter in length than SAIT's diploma programs - usually a year or less. However, you have up to five years to complete your program.

Post-Diploma Certificate

These programs build on skills developed through a diploma or degree program and combine classroom instruction with a workplace practicum.

They are often completed in a year or less.

Journeyperson

A certified journeyperson is recognized as a qualified and skilled person in a trade and is entitled to the wages and benefits associated with that trade. You must complete all apprenticeship periods and pass the exams to earn a journeyperson designation.

Non-credit credentials

A non-credit credential comprises courses and programs designed for professional or personal development.

Because these do not have post-secondary credits attached, they cannot be used towards any of the credentials above. We also cannot guarantee an external institute will accept these courses or credentials for transfer credit.

SAIT's non-credit certificates of achievement and completion are offered through Continuing Education and Professional Studies.

Certificate of Achievement

Certificates of achievement recognize the completion of a program that includes a formal evaluation of performance and a minimum of 144 (required and elective) course hours.

Certificates of achievement typically develop broader, complex skill sets. As of July 1, 2022, you have up to three years to complete the certificate. If you began these programs before July 1, 2022, you still have five calendar years to complete the program from when you began the first course.

Certificate of Completion

Certificates of completion recognize the completion of a program that includes a formal evaluation of performance and a minimum of 30 to a maximum of 143 course hours.

These certificates are shorter in duration than certificates of achievement and offer a focused education program. As of July 1, 2022, you have up to three years to complete the certificate. If you began before July 1, 2022, you will have five calendar years to complete the program from when you began the first course.

Professional Certificate

Program certificates recognize completion of a program that includes the formal evaluation of performance, and that is a minimum of one year in length.

These certificates have program-specific admission requirements.

Micro-credential

A micro-credential recognizes the completion of a non-credit course that includes a formal performance evaluation and verifies you have demonstrated specific competencies.

Micro-credentials focus on the mastery of specific skills. You receive a digital, shareable badge upon completing a SAIT micro-credential (SAITMicro).

Mandatory requirements

Applicants for this program are required to have previously completed post-secondary studies at an accredited post-secondary institution. Review admission requirements for more details.

Overview

The dynamic and practical Bachelor of Applied Technology Geographic Information Systems degree will equip you with specialized knowledge and hands-on experience in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), a rapidly expanding area of information technology.

This program focuses on collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data related to the Earth’s surface. As a student, you will delve into spatial data and learn how to use GIS tools to create detailed maps, analyze geographic patterns, and contribute to fields such as urban planning, environmental management, resource management, and emergency services.

To thrive in the program, you should have a previous post-secondary credential, be comfortable with computers, be familiar with file management, and be proficient in standard office applications like word processors and spreadsheets.

In your first year, you will engage with two 15-week semesters of foundational coursework, covering topics from GIS basics to advanced data analysis. You will gain proficiency in working with relational database management systems, cartographic principles, and various GIS software applications.

Alongside technical skills, the curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving strategies, ensuring you can confidently approach complex spatial challenges.

The second year of this applied science program offers a distinctive opportunity to apply your classroom knowledge through a work-integrated learning experience (practicum). This hands-on component is designed to immerse you in the industry, allowing you to work on real-world projects, expand your professional network, and enhance your employment prospects post-graduation.

You’ll spend approximately 25 hours per week in class and an additional 25 hours on assignments, studying and project work.

The program also offers an online delivery option for those needing flexibility, permitting part-time study. You can balance your education with personal and professional commitments by taking a few courses per semester.

The Bachelor of Applied Technology Geographic Information Systems program will provide you with a strong technical foundation and develop your capacity to make informed decisions that may impact local communities and even global environments.

Those working in the geographic information systems field tend to be innovative, objective and directive.

You need:

math skills
the ability to think logically and critically
the ability to study spatial problems and measurements
problem-solving skills
speaking and listening skills
people skills
self-discipline
to continually learn to stay up to date in industry practices
the ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team.

You should enjoy being innovative, being precise, making decisions, supervising others, and having variety in your work.

Previous post-secondary experience is required to enter this program. You may be able to gain credit for previous postsecondary courses.

There may also be opportunities to further your education once you graduate.

Learn more about program and institution transfer options.

You’ll participate in a capstone project and an 800-hour work experience practicum.

During the capstone project, you will solve a typical business challenge in a cost-effective and timely manner using a GIS-based solution. 

During the practicum, you will apply what you’ve learned in a real-world work environment at a GIS company or in a GIS-related position. 

Upon successful completion of this program, you’ll receive a SAIT Bachelor of Applied Technology Geographic Information Systems degree.

Download program info

Careers and opportunities

Each year, SAIT conducts a survey between February and April to determine the employment rate, salary and satisfaction of our newest SAIT alumni.

people icon 95% graduate employment rate

salary icon $63,850 average starting salary

Find out more about our graduate employment statistics >

Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.

Associated National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes: 21203, 22213, 22214.

Career counselling and support

Unsure which career path is for you? SAIT offers career planning services to help you decide your future.

You can also get started by taking our online career finder quiz, which can help you narrow down your search based on your current skills and interests.

Finally, you can also head to Alberta alis for various tools and resources, including additional quizzes and labour market information to help you narrow down a career path.

Services and workshops

Courses

The Bachelor of Applied Technology Geographic Information Systems Business Administration requires 45 credits (12 courses) to complete.

View classes by semester

Suggested schedule of study

First year

Semester 1

Course code	Course name	Credit
COMM-415	Professional Communications	1.5
GEOS-406	Geospatial Project Foundations	1.5
GEOS-409	GIS Data Capture I	3.0
GEOS-410	GIS Data Manipulation and Transformation	3.0
GEOS-418	GIS Data Modeling	3.0
GEOS-419	GIS Data Analysis and Output	3.0
Semester 1 total		15.0

Semester 2

Course code	Course Name	Credit
GEOS-450	Enterprise and Web GIS	3.0
GEOS-451	GIS Data Capture II	3.0
GEOS-456	GIS Programming	3.0
GEOS-457	Cartography and Geovisualization	3.0
GEOS-459	Applied GIS Capstone Project	3.0
Semester 2 total		15.0
First-year total		30.0

Second year

Semesters 7 and 8

After completing all first-year academic requirements, you must successfully complete an 800-hour work experience practicum.

Course name	Credit	Course code
GEOS-540	Applied GIS Directed Field Studies	30.0
Second-year total		30.0
Program total		60.0

Course	Credits
This course promotes the development of professional communication skills that complement earlier communication courses and workplace experience. These include interpersonal communication, critical thinking, team management, communicating technical material to a business audience, ethics and professionalism in the workplace.	1.5
This course introduces the learner to the foundation, history, development and application of GIS project management theory. Topics include: the GIS cycle, GIS project management concepts, proposal writing, project planning and management as well as methods for controlling and closing out projects.	1.5
GIS Data Capture I introduces the learner to the considerations and processes involved in the data capture stage of the geographic information system (GIS) development cycle. Topics include basic geospatial concepts, geospatial data models, and data acquisition techniques such as digitizing, global positioning system (GPS), remote sensing, and geocoding.	3
Managing core data is critical to the accurate integration, management, analysis and output of data in a GIS work environment. This course focuses on the fundamentals of managing and manipulating core data and how to troubleshoot problems. Topics include data security, data backup and archival procedures, metadata, data transformations, conversions and translations, survey and mapping systems as well as data generalization and filtering techniques.	3
GIS Data Modelling introduces the learner to the fundamentals of data modelling through the design, construction and management of relational databases and geodatabases. Topics include database components and fundamentals, relational database design and creation, querying techniques, tabular data analysis, optimization and geodatabase modelling.	3
This course introduces the learner to spatial analysis and cartographic representation with a focus on processes and techniques used during the data analysis and data output stages of the GIS development cycle. Topics include map design principles, symbolization, data classification, map scale and generalization, typography, colour theory and analytical processes such as spatial queries, spatial joins and map overlays.	3
Enterprise and Web GIS introduces the student to enterprise and web-based geographic information system (GIS) environments. The focus is on the management of enterprise and web systems, such as ArcGIS Enterprise and ArcGIS Online, to optimize the capture, storage, management, analysis and output of spatial and non-spatial data. The knowledge of these systems will enhance the organizational decision-making process. Pre-requisites: COMM 415 GEOS 406 GEOS 409 GEOS 410 GEOS 418	3
This course focuses on raster analysis and the role of remote sensing systems in GIS data capture. Learners will gain a deeper understanding of a geographic information system (GIS) by articulating how this relationship works. Topics include grid statistics, passive and active remote sensing systems such as photographic and multispectral systems, as well as image processing techniques, remotely piloted aircraft systems, LiDAR and GIS integration of these technologies. Pre-requisites: COMM 415 GEOS 406 GEOS 409 GEOS 410	3
GIS programming introduces the student to high-level programming (HLP) language scripting (e.g. Python scripting) for geographic information system (e.g.ArcGIS). Topics include introducing the student to basic HLP language (e.g.Python scripting) fundamentals to advanced geoprocessing using a number of GIS software site-packages (e.g.ArcGIS and Arcpy Mapping module) as well as exploring and analyzing spatial data using HLP language and raster datasets using the Spatial Analyst module. The course also covers error handling and debugging and the creation of custom tools using HLP language (e.g. Python) scripting. Pre-requisites: COMM 415 GEOS 406 GEOS 409 GEOS 410 GEOS 419	3
This course introduces the learner to thematic mapping, geographic visualization methods and geospatial analysis techniques commonly used by geographic information system (GIS) professionals to present geographic information. Topics include theories on presenting spatial information, design methodology and cartographic techniques such as bivariate, choropleth and dot mapping techniques as well as the creation of cartograms and map animations for the web. Pre-requisites: COMM 415 GEOS 406 GEOS 409 GEOS 410 GEOS 419	3
During this course, the learners identify a typical business challenge that can be satisfied in a cost effective and timely manner using a GIS-based solution. Learners research, plan, build, implement, test, and present the GIS solution. Topics include project selection, developing a project plan, data capture and management, data analysis, data output and project closure. Pre-requisites: COMM 415 GEOS 406 GEOS 409 GEOS 410 GEOS 418 GEOS 419	3
This course allows the learner to apply their technical and soft skills to real-life situations in a real-world work environment through employment in a GIS company or in a GIS-related position. Topics include goal setting, communication skills, problem solving, professional development and networking as well as resume/portfolio writing and presentation. Pre-requisites: COMM 415 GEOS 406 GEOS 409 GEOS 410 GEOS 418 GEOS 419	30

Progression

Students must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better in each semester and pass the necessary prerequisite courses to progress through the program. To qualify for graduation, students must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure >

Explore your options!

Some courses in this program are available through Open Studies. You can complete courses via Open Studies to get a head start on your education, reduce your course load once accepted into a credentialed program, or determine which career path best suits you before you fully commit.

You may also take courses for general interest or personal and professional development.

Available Open Studies courses

Admission requirements

Applicants educated in Canada

Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and meet the following requirements or equivalents.

A two-year diploma from a recognized Canadian college, technical institute or equivalent, or successful completion of two years at a recognized post-secondary academic institution.

All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English Language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find out what educational documents are accepted and assessment options.

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

Academic Upgrading

Missing an admission requirement for this program? Upgrade your prior education to help you receive admission into one of SAIT's career programs.

Upgrade

English language proficiency

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.

Learn more

Available intakes

Spring 2024

Start dates:

May 06, 2024

Domestic students: Open: Application deadline: Extended
International students: Closed: Application deadline: Jan. 22, 2024

Fall 2024

Start dates:

Sep 03, 2024

Domestic students: Open: Application deadline: June 28, 2024
International students: Closed: Application deadline: May 29, 2024

Winter 2025

Start dates:

Jan 06, 2025

Domestic students: Open: Application deadline: Oct. 25, 2024
International students: Open: Application deadline: Sept. 30, 2024

Costs

20234/25 tuition and fees

The following estimated costs are effective as of July 1, 2024.

The second year of this program is dedicated to a practicum placement where you will earn 30.0 credits towards your degree. Only billable hours amounting to 5.7 credits are used to calculate the tuition rate for this year.

Domestic students

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for domestic students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
3	2	$6,720	$1,608	$8,328
4	2	$1,276.80	$1,608	$2,884.80
Total cost:				$11,212.80

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for international students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
3	2	$22,170	$1,608	$23,778
4	2	$4,212.30	$1,608	$5,820.30
Total cost:				$29,598.30

Books and supplies are approximately $500 per full-time year.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a workstation hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.

Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore's website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date.

Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn't receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you're in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term.

2023/24 tuition and fees

The following costs are effective until June 30, 2023.

Domestic students

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for domestic students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
3	2	$6,600	$1,570	$8,170
4	2	$1,290.59	$1,570	$2,510.59
Total cost:				$10,680.59

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for international students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
3	2	$22,164.60	$1,570	$23,734.60
4	2	$4,233.41	$1,570	$5,803.41
Total cost:				$29,538.01

Financial aid

Paying for your education may feel overwhelming, but we have resources and programs that can help, including information about payment options, student loans, grants and scholarships.

Learn more

Fees

Your fees are calculated based on the number of course credits you take per semester (approximately 16 weeks of study). In most cases, your fee is determined based on whether you're taking more or less than nine (9) course credits (more than nine credits in a semester are considered full-time studies.)

Fees are adjusted for programs with start dates outside the typical 15-week program.

2024/25 fees per semester

Fees are subject to change without notice.

A breakdown of mandatory fees based on whether you are taking less than or more than nine credits per semester
SAIT fees	Less than 9 credits/semester	9 or more credits/semester
Campus athletic and recreation fee: supports the provision of recreation and fitness facilities, movement classes, wellness programs, events, intermural activities, varsity sports programs, and a variety of initiatives offered throughout the academic year. Exemptions to recreation fees are made in some circumstances.	$51.50	$103
Student support fee: supports services and resources to help you succeed throughout your academic career, including Career Advancement Services and Student Development and Counselling.	$53.75	$107.50
Student technology fee: supports improvements to cybersecurity to protect student and institutional information, access to learning material outside the classroom, and technology to enhance your experience.	$53.75	$107.50
UPass: provides you with unlimited access to Calgary Transit. Additional eligibility requirements apply to obtain a UPass.	n/a	$165
Saitsa fees
Saitsa fee: supports the student-led, non-profit organization representing students. Fees support the operation of various student services, activities, and programming. Saitsa fees are paid per credit to a maximum amount of $146 per semester.	$16.23/credit	$146 maximum
Health and dental plan: provides access to thousands of dollars in coverage for prescription medication, dental treatments, paramedical services, and multiple other benefits. Health and dental fees are charged per semester to an annual maximum amount of $172 for health and $158 for dental. Find more details at saitsa.com/benefits. In most cases, your fees are quoted based on paying for a full year of health and dental coverage. International students are charged these fees regardless of course load. Domestic students with existing health and dental coverage may opt-out.	n/a	$91 for health $84 for dental

Application process

Ready to apply?

Follow our step-by-step guide to submitting a successful application.

Learn how to apply

Communication during admission

Email is the primary source of communication during the selection process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications. We recommend you add the construction.advising@sait.ca domain to your safe senders' list or you risk missing critical email messages.

Begin your application

Apply now using the online application portal.

Ensure you have a valid Visa or Mastercard to pay the non-refundable application fee of $120 for domestic applicants or $150 for international applicants.

Apply now

Information sessions

Prepare for a strong start in your chosen program or get the details you need to decide your future path.

Our expert staff and faculty are ready to answer your questions and provide information about the following:

What sets SAIT apart
An introduction to the program and area of study
Admission requirements
Future career paths
Information on the earning potential and graduate employment rates.

Contact us

Prepare for a strong start and get the details you need to make a decision about your future. Our expert staff and faculty are ready to answer your questions, and provide information about:

School of Construction Advising

Phone: 403.284.8367
Email: construction.info@sait.ca

International Student Advising

Phone: 403.284.8852
Email: international@sait.ca

Bachelor of Applied Technology Geographic Information Systems

On this page:

On this page:

Mandatory requirements

Overview

Traits, skills and aptitudes

Academic path

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning

Credentials

Careers and opportunities

Career counselling and support

Courses

Required courses

COMM 415 - Professional Communications Show details

GEOS 406 - Geospatial Project Foundations Show details

GEOS 409 - GIS Data Capture I Show details

GEOS 410 - GIS Data Manipulation and Transformation Show details

GEOS 418 - GIS Data Modelling Show details

GEOS 419 - GIS Data Analysis and Output Show details

GEOS 450 - Enterprise and Web GIS Show details

Pre-requisites:

GEOS 451 - GIS Data Capture II Show details

Pre-requisites:

GEOS 456 - GIS Programming Show details

Pre-requisites:

GEOS 457 - Cartography and Geovisualization Show details

Pre-requisites:

GEOS 459 - Applied GIS Capstone Project Show details

Pre-requisites:

GEOS 540 - Applied GIS Directed Field Studies Show details

Pre-requisites:

Progression

Explore your options!

Admission requirements

Applicants educated in Canada

Applicants educated outside of Canada

Academic Upgrading

English language proficiency

Available intakes

Spring 2024

Fall 2024

Winter 2025

Costs

20234/25 tuition and fees

Domestic students

International students

Books and supplies

2023/24 tuition and fees

Domestic students

International students

Financial aid

Application process

Ready to apply?

Communication during admission

Begin your application

Information sessions

Contact us

School of Construction Advising

International Student Advising

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