Geographic Information Science at The Ohio State University

What is GIS? Geographic information systems (GIS) allow us make informed, educated decisions based on geographic data. People intuitively understand maps. Trends and patterns become more apparent when viewed on a map. Maps are necessary for solving spatial problems. Knowledge of GIS and spatial analysis is crucial in today's interconnected and global society. GIS technology has many uses, ranging from emergency management and other city services, to business location and retail analysis, transportation and logistics modeling, regulating the spread of disease, monitoring local crime patterns, and managing natural resources.

Ohio State is designated as a Center for Academic Excellence in Geospatial Sciences by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and is among the nation's premier institutions in the development of geospatial technologies. The department is ranked as one of the top five geography departments in the United States and is recognized globally as a leader in teaching and research in cartographic, spatial analytic and geographic information science.