Roane State Community College

Overview

Learn more about the program's designation as a Center for Academic Excellence (CAE) in Geospatial Sciences.

This degree program prepares students for careers as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analysts. A GIS Certificate Program is also available which prepares students to work as GIS Technicians. Students receive specialized training in geographic fundamentals, GIS database design, spatial analysis, demographic analysis, computer programming, digital image analysis, cartographic design and global positioning system (GPS) principles. Students become skilled in using popular GIS software packages and GPS mapping products. They gain the knowledge and ability to use modern analysis tools to display information relative to features on the ground, below ground or above ground. Small, economical computer systems now have the speed and software to empower a trained user to manage, present and analyze geographic information.

Work Settings

GIS has multi-disciplinary applications, therefore, employment opportunities are varied. Career opportunities include, federal, state and local government; public utilities, law enforcement, natural resources, parks and recreation, real estate, transportation, market analysis, defense and military. Many positions include field work along with office work.

Location

The GIS courses are offered in the evenings at the Oak Ridge Campus.

Salary

Salary ranges vary widely depending on type of organization, previous work experience, and additional credentials of graduates. However, an entry-level salary of $30,000 - $35,000 can be anticipated in the local area. Salary can be expected to increase significantly along with work experience.

Complete Your Bachelor’s Degree in Geography from Marshall University

Roane State and Marshall University have a 2+2 agreement that allows students to complete their associate of applied science in GIS, and then transition seamlessly into Marshall University’s fully online bachelor’s degree program in geography.

Students who already have an AAS from Roane State can transfer all completed courses toward the bachelor’s degree.

Learn more about the Roane State-Marshall University 2+2 program.

Learn more about Marshall University’s fully online geography program.

Links

• What is GIS?
• Professional Organizations

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements

1. Submit an RSCC Admissions Application. Indicate on the application you are interested in the GIS A.A.S. degree.
2. Submit required proof of immunizations.
3. Submit OFFICIAL transcripts from all high schools or colleges you have attended to the Office of Records and Registration. An official transcript is one that is in an unopened sealed envelope from the high school or college.
4. If you are under 21, and have taken the ACT test within the last 3 years and your score on all parts is 19 or better, you will NOT be required to take the ACCUPLACER placement test to determine if you need any Learning Support courses. If you are over 21, you WILL be required to take the ACCUPLACER test. The RSCC Counseling Center can tell you the times and locations where the tests will be given.
5. See your advisor to help you prepare a degree checklist. Your advisor information can be found on RaiderNet.
6. At this point you can begin completing your Learning Support courses, General Education courses and courses for the A.A.S. GIS program.

Roane State Tuition & Fees

Visit the Tuition and Fee Listing page for the most up-to-date information, including estimated Cost of Attendance (COA). Additional expenses include books and digital storage media (CD-ROMs, DVDs). Online students will need to have access to a computer that will run the GIS software and optionally purchase a GPS unit. GPS units sufficient for coursework can be purchased for approximately $125. Timed licenses of the GIS software are available at no cost to students.

Faculty

Faculty

Pat Wurth
Click above for email address
(865) 354-3000 ext. 2275
Associate Professor