Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science at Western Washington University

Western Washington University offers the Graduate Certificate of Geographic Information Science as a full-time degree delivered on campus at its WWU - Bellingham campus in Bellingham , United States of America. Taught in English and completed over 1 year, the program equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for geographic information science and related professional fields. The next available intake begins on September 27, 2026.

About Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science

Many environmental systems and issues involve spatial patterns that can be analyzed, visualized, and communicated through Geographic Information Science (GIS) techniques. The Graduate GIS Certificate provides students with in-depth training in GIS theory and techniques. Our students gain advanced skills in the creation, development, management, analysis, and visualization of spatial data. Original research projects allow graduate students to practice applying GIS techniques to their thesis topic. We teach our students how to use GIS for a wide range of environmental applications, from modeling climate change impacts to identifying inequitable patterns of exposure to pollutants to prioritizing land for renewable energy installations or conservation easements.

Many classes are offered only once a year, so careful advance planning with a faculty advisor is required.

Why Consider a Geographic Information Science Certificate (graduate)?

Do you love maps? Are you comfortable with spatial problem solving? Do you enjoy the combination of art and science that goes into cartography? Are you curious about how spatial data can be used to explain the patterns and processes behind environmental issues? If so, then a Graduate Geographic Information Science Certificate will be a valuable addition to your graduate education. Come join us as we work together to map our world!

Disciplines

College of the Environment

Requirements and Admission Criteria for Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science at Western Washington University

Entry Requirements

Transcripts

You are required to upload a scanned or electronically generated unofficial transcript from each post-secondary institution attended as part of the application. Provide a copy of your diploma if your transcript does not list the degree awarded.

If you are admitted, a final, official transcript from each institution is still required before you can enroll. If your undergraduate degree is still in progress, please upload current transcripts at the time of application. If you are admitted and choose to attend WWU, you will be required to submit a final official transcript showing the award of the bachelor's degree prior to registration.

Documents must be issued within the last two years at the time of application.
To be considered official, transcripts must be in sealed envelopes prepared by the university or college; attested / certified copies prepared by the institution may be accepted if originals cannot be provided by the institution.
All transcripts and diplomas must be translated into English by the institution, Ministry of Education (or equivalent), or an accredited agency.

Credential Evaluation

This is NOT in lieu of official transcripts, but an additional requirement.

If your degree was earned outside the US or Canada, submit an official course-by-course credential evaluation. We accept both WES evaluations (standard course-by-course or ICAP), and Educational Perspectives evaluations through the CertiFile Certified Credential Attachment service.
- Note: If you choose to submit a WES evaluation, we recommend the ICAP product, because it includes verified copies of your official transcripts and eliminates the need to provide a separate official transcript to our office if you are admitted and choose to attend WWU.
- Please see Certifile Order Process for detailed information about ordering a degree evaluation through the CertiFile service.
You must have earned, or must be in the process of earning the equivalent to a four-year U.S. bachelor's degree prior to beginning the graduate program.
The degree-granting institution must be recognized by the Ministry of Education (or equivalent) in the country where the degree was earned.

Please contact the Graduate School office if you have questions or need clarification on these requirements. Applications cannot be sent to the department for admission consideration until all required documents are received.

English Requirements

IELTSMin 7
TOEFLMin 86

Career Opportunities after Completing Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science

Tuition and Fee Information for Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science at Western Washington University

Application Fee 70

How to Apply for Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science at Western Washington University

Most materials, including unofficial transcripts, your statement of purpose, and writing samples (if required), are required to be uploaded at the time you submit your application. Preparing them in advance will expedite your process.

If you have questions about the application, please do not hesitate to contact us for assistance. Our staff is available Monday-Friday, 8 am to 5 pm (Pacific Time), at (360) 650-3170 or [email protected].

Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science at Western Washington University

Western Washington University

United States of America, Bellingham