To work as a geospatial information technologist, you typically need to:
- have a high school diploma or equivalent;
- have at least a two-year degree in geospatial information or a related field; and
- have related work experience.
To work as a geospatial information scientist, you typically need to:
- have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
- have at least a bachelor's degree in geography or a related field.
Education after high school
Almost all geospatial information scientists and technologists have a bachelor's degree in geography, civil engineering, planning, surveying and mapping, or a physical science. In addition, more colleges and universities are offering certificates in geospatial engineering, photogrammetry, or a related field. These programs have a heavy emphasis on using GIS and GPS software. As a student you should also take courses in economics, history, and urban studies.
Technologists can study for this field by gaining an associate degree in geospatial information or a related field and working their way into this occupation through experience. However, the standard education level is a bachelor's degree.
You need a doctoral (PhD) degree to teach geography and geospatial information at a college. Many colleges and universities offer advanced degrees in geography.
Work experience
Working as a research assistant for a geographer is good experience for this field. Look for this kind of work when you are a college student. Or consider participating in an internship. An internship offers you a chance to apply what you have learned in the classroom to a work situation. It also allows you to build skills and make contacts with people in the field.
On-the-job training
Depending on your employer, you may receive training on your first job. The length of training varies by employer, but may last up to one year.