Computer Science and Geographical Information Science

What can I do with a major in Computer Science and Geographical Information Science

The Department of Geography and the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science offers instruction leading to the Multidisciplinary Major in Computer Science and Geographical Information Science. The program is structured to provide a firm theoretical, technical and applied background in the Geographical Information Sciences (GIS) that draws extensively on Computer Science foundations for their implementation.

GIS involves the use and analysis of digital maps, databases, models and mobile applications, as well as navigation and spatial integration tools. Major GIS application areas include remote sensing, geographical information systems, computer graphics, image processing and mapping and spatial modelling. These rely on advanced computer science algorithms and software development, platform integration, hardware design and operating system principles. The major provides applied training coupled with a solid theoretical and developmental foundation.

The synergy of the Multidisciplinary Major provides a strong basis for further study at the graduate level in an established field of research, while also providing training in an area of employment opportunity that neither the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science nor the Department of Geography alone can provide.

Students interested in Computer Science & GIS can complete:

  • Bachelor of Science

Program Planning Guides

Skills

  • Ability to Work Independently
  • Active Learner
  • Analyzing and Interpreting Data
  • Attention to Detail
  • Communication
  • Confidence in Knowledge & Suggestions
  • Collecting, Processing & Synthesizing Data
  • Geographic Knowledge
  • High Ethical Standards
  • Interest in Designing and Operating Systems
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Logical and Critical Thinking
  • Organizational Ability
  • Patience
  • Preparing & Organizing Records
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Research
  • Statistics
  • Technical Proficiency
  • Teamwork

Work Environment

The GIS program is designed to provide both the specialized problem-solving skills and broad spatial modeling background that are required for decision support in fields as diverse as environmental management, urban planning, infrastructure design and marketing. Graduates have career possibilities in several exciting and dynamic occupations in firms, such as those specializing in marketing, environmental science, civil engineering, consulting, forestry management or energy transmission. Graduates may also find employment in academic or research institutes, government organizations, construction/real estate development companies, international development agencies, mining or resource companies, or in design, planning or technology-based companies.

Key Areas of Specialization:

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Scheduling & Planning
  • Computational Differentiation
  • Natural Language Processing
  • Design & Analysis of Algorithms
  • Computational Geometry
  • Graph Drawing
  • Visibility Graphs
  • Data & Knowledge-Base Systems
  • Language Technology & Engineering
  • Parallel & Distributed Computing, Optimization
  • Availability Enhancing Middleware
  • VLSI Design
  • Information & Network Security
  • Circuit Design
  • Image Processing
  • Computer Algebra

Career Possibilities

These jobs are normally intended for new graduates and require 0 to 2 years of experience. It is important to note that many entry level positions require some related experience or demonstrated ability to perform job-related tasks. Even those positions that do not require experience will still prefer an experienced candidate, if one is available.

  • Assistant Transit Planner
  • CAD Technologist
  • Computer Programmer
  • Computer Systems Analyst
  • Computer/Science Associate
  • Data Entry Technician
  • Engineering Technician
  • Forest Technologist
  • GIS Analyst
  • GIS Developer
  • GIS Forester
  • GIS Spatial Analyst – Land Operations
  • GIS Technician
  • Helpdesk Support
  • Information Systems Analyst/Specialist
  • Information Systems Technician
  • IT Consultant (Entry Level)
  • IT Professional (Entry Level)
  • IT Support Assistant
  • Junior System Administrator (Entry Level)
  • Net Programmer
  • Network Operations Assistant
  • Permit Specialist
  • QA Analyst
  • Research Analyst
  • Software Developer (Entry Level)
  • Solutions Specialist
  • System Integration (Entry Level)
  • Systems Specialist
  • Technical Support Representative
  • Web Developer

These jobs generally require extensive, relevant work experience and/or further education.

  • Aerial Photo Interpreter
  • Aerospace Technologist
  • Application Analyst
  • Assistant Location Expert
  • Cartographer
  • Census Geographer
  • City Planner
  • Community Developer
  • Compiler
  • Computer Manufacturer
  • Computer Trainer
  • Conservation Technician
  • Database Manager
  • Demographer
  • Ecotourism Consultant
  • Electronic Data Processing Analyst
  • Electronic Mapping Technician
  • Environmental Advisor
  • Environmental Impact Analyst
  • Environmental Policy Analyst
  • Extension Ranger
  • Financial Services Programmer
  • Foreign Area Analyst
  • Geographic Information Site Researcher
  • Geological Surveyor
  • Geomatics Engineer
  • Geomatics Technologist
  • Geophysicist
  • GIS Applications Specialist
  • GIS Programmer
  • GIS Software Specialist
  • Industrial Planner
  • Information Systems Manager
  • Information Technologist
  • Insurance Programmer
  • Land Developer
  • Land Surveyor
  • Land-Use Analyst/Planner
  • Map Editor
  • Mapping Technologist
  • Market Research Analyst
  • Natural Resources Specialist
  • Network Engineer
  • Park Administrator
  • Parks & Recreation Technician
  • Public Utilities Specialist
  • Quality Control Engineer
  • Recreational Planner
  • Remote Sensing Analyst

On average people change their careers three to five times in their lifetime. So, no matter what major you choose, you may still be interested in opportunities totally unrelated to your program of study. We encourage you to be open to all possibilities! Your undergraduate degree can be a springboard for other educational pursuits, and your transferable skills and experience can prepare you to work in a multitude of settings

  • Actuary
  • Associate Sales Director
  • Business Analyst
  • Business Continuity Planner
  • Clients Systems Administrator
  • Communication Specialist
  • Customer Support Analyst
  • Distribution Manager
  • Drafting Technician
  • Ecologist
  • Educational Assistant
  • Encryption Specialist
  • Environmental Engineer
  • Financial Planner
  • Hardware/Software Manufacturer
  • Health Services Planner
  • Hydrologist
  • Instructor
  • Internal Auditor
  • Inventory Manager
  • Library Technician
  • Logistic Manager
  • Management Analyst
  • Material Controller
  • Material Manager
  • Mathematician
  • Medical System Designer
  • Mortgage Researcher
  • Operation Manager
  • Plant Manager
  • Product Evaluator
  • Production Line Manager
  • Production Scheduler/Planner
  • Purchasing Agent/Manager
  • Quality Control Specialist
  • Records Management Analyst
  • Reporter
  • Risk Analyst
  • Risk and Insurance Specialist
  • School Business Official
  • Security Specialist
  • Software Talent Agent
  • Technical Recruiter
  • Technical Sales Representative
  • Technology Consultant
  • Telecommunications Manager
  • Underwriter

Useful Resources


Add Value to Your Degree

The more you do to differentiate yourself, the more likely you are to succeed in building a fulfilling career path for yourself. It takes more than just attending classes to stand out amongst other students and new graduates. Become an explorer! Try new things, challenge yourself, build unique skills, and connect with diverse people.

Use the ideas listed below to help you brainstorm experiences to add value to your degree. For more ideas on experiential opportunities at the University of Lethbridge, view the Student Experience Transcript.

Making connections with others is one of the best ways to learn about the world of work and gain access to career-building opportunities. Making meaningful connections with people is often called building a network. Building these connections can give you access to jobs before they are posted, or to jobs that are not publicly posted. Employers like to hire people they have already built relationships with, and are more likely to hire people who have been recommended by trusted colleagues and friends.

Start building your network by attending Career Fairs and other on-campus recruitment events found on the Career Services Events page within the Career Bridge portal. Get introduced to career professionals in a welcoming and approachable way through uLethbridge Connect at Ten Thousand Coffees. Consider joining a professional association to help you find opportunities to meet experienced professionals in your field, find training opportunities, be paired with a mentor, or get involved in committees or other volunteer positions.

d professionals in your field, find training opportunities, be paired with a mentor, or get involved in committees or other volunteer positions.

Co-operative Education allows you to earn income through real-world work experience that is related to your academic studies. Completing a co-op work term provides you with an opportunity to build your skills in a practical work setting, network with employers, and increase your marketability after graduation.

Co-operative education is available to undergraduate and graduate-level students within a variety of programs in the Faculty of Arts & Science, Dhillon School of Business, Faculty of Fine Arts, and Faculty of Health Sciences. Learn more about eligibility requirements and how co-op works here.

The Applied Studies program offers you the opportunity to earn academic credit for learning gained through employment or volunteer experiences. Placements provide skill development and experiential learning related to your studies by integrating principles learned in the classroom with practical situations encountered on the job.

Participating in clubs and running for student government are great ways to build employability skills, learn how to work with others, and demonstrate your leadership abilities.

The University of Lethbridge Students’ Union is committed to building a rewarding and enriching experience for undergraduate students. They have positions for Executive Council members and General Assembly members, as well as an extensive list of ratified clubs, offering opportunities to get involved in areas of interest and in leadership positions.

The Graduate Students’ Association’s mandate is to identify and advocate for graduate student needs. They have GSA Executive positions, GSA Council positions, and a mentorship program for incoming students.

The University of Lethbridge provides many different opportunities to gain research experience in addition to the required courses in your degree program.

An independent study is a chance for you to design your own research project for course credit under the supervision of a professor of your choice. Course work usually requires independent library research and/or field work and/or a major term paper. For more information, meet with an Academic Advisor and the Department or Faculty member under whom you wish to pursue an Independent Study.

You can also opt to complete an Undergraduate Thesis Course. This will allow you to earn an “Honours Thesis” designation on your degree and is a great springboard into graduate studies and professional programs. Fourth-year standing and a cumulative GPA of 3.30 is required to complete an Honours Thesis; it is also helpful to have previous research experience like Independent Studies. For more information, contact the Department or Faculty member under whom you with to pursue your Honours Thesis.

The Office of Research and Innovation Services has a wealth of information on additional research opportunities for students, including Student Funding, Student Research Positions, AGILITY, and events. The School of Graduate Studies has information on Research Opportunities/Graduate Student Positions and GA/Co-op/Internship Opportunities. If you are interested in building your research portfolio, do not miss out on these opportunities!

International experience builds valuable employability skills like adaptability, multi-cultural awareness, and the initiative to take on new challenges. Gain an international perspective by participating in Education Abroad opportunities like semester exchanges, study tours, field studies, work-study tours, internships, and more. Learn about international careers and resources through MyWorldAbroad (available within the Career Bridge portal).

Volunteerism is an excellent way to demonstrate your current skills, build new skills, and grow your network. If you are not sure where to get started, connect with UVolunteer, the University of Lethbridge’s partnership with Volunteer Lethbridge. If you already volunteer, UVolunteer can provide you with a framework to organize and document your volunteer work. If you are not sure how or where to get involved, UVolunteer can help you find volunteer opportunities that meet your needs and the needs of your community. Also consider volunteering with a local Board, Commission, or Committee.