Spatial Data Science and Technology (BA/BS)

Spatial data is integrated in our everyday lives. From geotagging to geocaching to finding a place to enjoy some coffee, we are all integrated in a complex web of movement, place, and discovery. Spatial data science and technology is not a program about making maps—it’s about asking relevant questions, harnessing data, and understanding the appropriate way to use it. It’s not just about learning how to use software programs, but about how you can contribute to a new generation of digital technologies that represent a high-growth industry—one that is revolutionizing business, nonprofit, and government worlds alike. At the UO, faculty members use spatial technologies to focus on remote sensing of river systems, climate change analysis, web-mapping, cartography, spatial cognition, spatial decision-making, and social equity.

This major is very flexible with four required courses in geography and computer science, and then eight electives that students can focus in their areas of interest. Our courses focus on geographic information systems science, cartography, remote sensing, spatial analysis, and spatial modeling.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

The spatial data science and technology major requires a minimum of 48 credits, drawing on courses in geography and computer information science. The major requires four compulsory courses (16 credits) that provide foundational skills, concepts, and critical thinking abilities. An additional eight elective courses (32 credits) are required. Upon declaring the major, students meet with the geography undergraduate advisor to tailor a series of elective courses best suited to individual student needs and employment aspirations. At least nine courses used for the major must be taken for a letter grade. A grade of C– or better and a GPA of 2.25 or better is required in courses applied to the major.

For more information, contact the Tykeson hall advising center at tykesonadvising@uoregon.edu, or email the Director of Undergraduate Studies, Leslie McLees here, or schedule an advising appointment at https://cas.uoregon.edu/advising/access-advising

Spatial Data Science and Technology Major Requirements

Core courses provide foundational skills, concepts, and critical thinking abilities. Some of the introductory courses, such as GIScience I (GEOG 481), are prerequisites for more advanced courses. Students are not required to complete these before moving to elective courses (except where prerequisites are required).

Electives. Rather than adopting a series of specializations, the electives component will remain flexible. Upon declaring the major, students should meet with the undergraduate advisor to work out a series of courses that best fit student needs and employment aspirations. A full list of elective courses can be found on the major page on the department website.

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Special topics include courses that are offered less frequently, but also qualify for credit when offered under the course number GIScience: [Topic] (GEOG 490). Topics include Web Mapping, Server GIS, Qualitative Spatial Reasoning, and Spatial Simulation.

Honors Programs

The Department of Geography offers an honors option for its majors. More information is available on the department website, contact the undergraduate support at undergradasu7@uoregon.edu, or email the Director of Undergraduate Studies, Leslie McLees here.

Four-Year Degree Plan

The degree plan shown is only a sample of how students may complete their degrees in four years. There are alternative ways. Students should consult their advisor to determine the best path for them.

Bachelor of Arts in Spatial Data Science and Technology

Bachelor of Science in Spatial Data Science and Technology