Geospatial technologies are increasingly utilized to help governments, companies, and communities understand the complex environmental, security, and intelligence challenges of today.
To ensure that Hokies are prepared to meet those challenges, the College of Natural Resources and Environment (CNRE) has launched a new Geospatial Intelligence Certificate Program (GCP) accredited by the U.S. Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF).
“The geospatial intelligence certificate will enhance the educational credentials of graduates seeking to work in the government or private sectors,” said Professor Tom Crawford, chair of the Department of Geography. “This offering will support national security, environmental security, and associated intelligence operations.”
The certificate program, coordinated by Collegiate Assistant Professor Santosh Rijal, will provide students with a rigorous training in the applications of geospatial technology, including environmental resources monitoring, satellite imagery assessment, and emergency response optimization.
“CNRE has always led the way in the work they do, and the GCP program is another example of enabling students to be prepared with the very best skills for the GIS community,” said Esri Director Patty Mims M.S. ’94. “GIS technology enables analysis of decisions in every industry from natural resources to commercial businesses, state and local governments, and more.”
Any undergraduate student enrolled at Virginia Tech is eligible to enroll in coursework to earn the certificate, and students working toward a minor in geographic information systems (GIS) are particularly encouraged to consider pursuing certification. USGIF provides scholarships for eligible students considering this certification.
“This credential signals to employers that a graduate has acquired a suite of competencies defined in the USGIF ‘Essential Body of Knowledge,’” said Crawford. “That includes geographic information systems, geovisualization, remote sensing, spatial analysis, and intelligence applications.”
Virginia Tech is one of only 21 colleges and universities currently accredited to offer geospatial intelligence certification. By providing the certificate, the USGIF is meeting its aim to promote education as a means to advance geospatial intelligence technologies and practices.
Students can learn more about the program and enroll by visiting the program’s webpage.
