Advanced Diploma in GIS Applications

Now accepting applications for ADGISA. There is no application deadline, however be advised this program is generally full. To avoid being wait-listed we suggest applying early in the spring semester for the September face-to-face start, or early in the fall semester for the January online start. For more information contact Prof. Dave Cake, 1.888.920.2221 Ext. 6153 or Dave.Cake@viu.ca

Schedule of Fall semester live webinars

If you are interested in learning more about our GIS programs, sign up for one of our upcoming Webinar Information Sessions.

Program Overview

The Advanced Diploma in GIS Applications provides skills training in geographic information systems (GIS) to university and college graduates who wish to strengthen their employment opportunities in GIS applications – an expanding field that is in high demand around the world.

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Program Options

Students have the option of taking the ADGISA Program either face-to-face or online. The face-to-face version is an intensive, 8-month program where students interact with instructors and colleagues in a classroom setting and engage in a work-study practicum. The online version extends over a 16-month period and has been designed for those people who prefer the convenience of online classes, or who are unable to relocate to Nanaimo, British Columbia for the face-to-face option. ADGISA Face-To-Face begins in September and ADGISA Online begins in January.

GIS Skills Acquisition

In both options, students learn how to use GIS as a spatial information and problem-solving tool in addressing real-world issues. The face-to-face program has a 9-credit work-study practicum; the online version includes course work with a number of GIS project assignments. The range of GIS skills acquired in each version of the ADGISA program is the same – a skill set with which graduates are extremely well positioned to secure full-time employment in the field.

GIS Software and Program Materials

We use ArcGIS by Esri, the world's most popular GIS software package. Published materials and instructional packages provide support for some courses. A select number of course modules, available through Esri's Virtual Campus, are incorporated into the delivery of specific courses. Use of these modules enables students to keep pace with changes in the world’s most popular GIS package – ArcGIS.