Geographic Information System (GIS) Resources

“A geographic information system (GIS) lets us visualize, question, analyze, and interpret (spatial) data to understand relationships, patterns, and trends.  GIS benefits organizations of all sizes and in almost every industry.  There is a growing interest in and awareness of the economic and strategic value of GIS.” (esri.com)

Dr. Jacob Napieralski serves as the GIS Advocate in CASL.  His responsibilities are to promote and expand the understanding and use of GIS tools and analysis in classes, research, and administrative applications, both within CASL and across the campus.  He is available to consult with faculty and students about incorporating GIS into teaching or research, to assist faculty with developing class assignments using geospatial technology (e.g., StoryMaps, ArcGIS Online, survey tools, etc.), to run workshops on geospatial tools, and the like.

GIS Certificate Program

The Geospatial Analysis and Mapping (GAM) Program in the Department of Natural Sciences offers a 16-credit hour GIS Certificate for undergraduates and professionals.

Geospatial Analysis and Mapping (GAM) Lab

The GAM Lab (1170 Social Sciences Building) is open to students enrolled in Geospatial Analysis and Mapping (GAM) Program courses, as well as students and faculty interested in using GIS software as part of a class activity or research.

“GIS @ UMD” Google+ Community of GIS Users

Faculty, staff, and students at UM-Dearborn are invited to join the “GIS @ UMD” Google+ Community to receive and share information about GIS related internships, job opportunities, conferences, workshops, new technologies, etc.  To join, sign up for Google+ using your UM-Dearborn Google account and search for the community “GIS @ UMD”. 

GIS Day

UM-Dearborn participates in GIS Day, an international forum where users of geographic information systems (GIS) technology demonstrate real-world applications that are making a difference in our society.  It is held every year on a Wednesday in the middle of November. 

At UM-Dearborn, presentations and exhibits provide students, faculty, staff, and members of the community the opportunity to learn directly from GIS practitioners about applications in a variety of different fields. See the event websites for information about past and upcoming GIS Day events: 

Below are some resources for getting started with GIS