| Home | Catalog | Examples | Geography & GIS Careers | Contact |

What is GIS?

GIS stands for Geographic Information Systems. Quite simply, it's making maps and analyzing data with computer technology. Think about Google Maps. We enter our address and our desitnation and the computer analyzes the best route based on its road data. That's GIS in action.

But that's a simple example. GIS is used by most industries to make sure they're as efficient as possible. Retail businesses use GIS to find an intelligent location for their next store. Wildland firefighters use GIS to study and predict where the fire will move next. Law enforcement officials use GIS to study crime patterns for better prevention. Scientists use GIS to monitor the effects and model the outcomes of climate change.

What does AVC offer?

Antelope Valley College offers a 5 course certificate in Geographic Information Systems. The certificate is designed to introduce students to the theory and technology behind GIS, and to create job ready GIS technicians for the geospatial industry.