Spatial Data Science, Post-Baccalaureate Certificate

About the Program

Purdue’s online graduate certificate in Spatial Data Science provides students with vital skills in data science and helps them master the technologies they’ll use in the field. Learn core concepts of geographic information systems (GIS) and spatial data science, including data sources, projections, spatial data processing and analysis methods, data and metadata creation and a conceptual framework for solving spatial problems.

Students will also learn foundational skills in scripting languages, data types, databases, and data visualization and analysis. By the end of the program, students will be able to collect, analyze, interpret, and combine geospatial data to make informed decisions regarding natural resource management and solve problems in the environmental, agricultural and engineering sectors.

The certificate combines technical skills in data science with in-depth coverage of issues related to natural resource management, including remote sensing, threats to biodiversity locally and globally, field observation, and other skills that agricultural and resource management professionals need to be effective in the field.

Program Website

Program Requirements

12 Credits Required

Program Learning Outcomes

Students will:

• Master key concepts of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial data science, including data sources, projections, spatial analysis methods, data and metadata creation, and conceptualization framework for solving spatial problems.
• Apply spatial analysis using GIS software to make judgements and solve problems in the environmental, agricultural, and engineering sectors.
• Define landscapes and describe the causes (natural and human) of landscape pattern and the threats to biodiversity locally and globally.
• Access and utilize important geospatial data and understand data quality and levels of aggregation of spatial data
• Demonstrate proficiency in scripting languages, data types, databases, and data visualization software and analysis including time series data.
• Apply remote sensing and spatial databases to observe and manage land resources within the Earth System.
• Provide analysis and interpretation of remotely sensed data in combination with field observations and other data sources; conceptualization and design of a global earth resources information system.

Graduate Programs Disclaimer

• The student is ultimately responsible for knowing and completing all degree requirements. Students should consult with their advisor/department for more information.
• Not all graduate programs may be actively recruiting students and course modality availability may vary. 
• Please refer to the Explore Graduate Programs website for a list of currently available graduate programs.
• Transfer credit policy: Credits earned for graduate study at other universities (both domestic and international) may be applied toward an advanced degree. Only credit hours associated with graduate courses for which grades of B- or better were obtained will be eligible for transfer. Any additional conditions under which credit transfers may be made are determined by the various departments.
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