Earn College Credit. Explore Geospatial Technology. Shape the Future.
The High School GIS Certificate is a 9-credit-hour college credential that allows high school students to earn college credit while exploring one of today's fastest-growing technology fields: geospatial science.
Offered through a unique partnership led by the University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL) in collaboration with Saint Louis University (SLU), Harris-Stowe State University (HSSU), and Lindenwood University, this program creates an early pathway from high school to college and future careers in geospatial technology, GIS, remote sensing, mapping, data science, and geospatial intelligence (GEOINT).
Program Information
Program Information
Credential
Total Credits
Lead Institution
University Partners
Delivery Model
Launch
Target Audience
Details
High School GIS Certificate
9 College Credit Hours
University of Missouri–St. Louis
SLU, HSSU, Lindenwood University
Dual Enrollment / Early College Credit
Fall 2026 (pending approvals)
High School Students (Grades 10–12)
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Request more information below:
Why Geospatial?
Geospatial technologies help answer important questions such as:
- Where is something happening?
- Why is it happening there?
- How can location-based data improve decision-making?
Today, geospatial technologies support numerous industries, including:
- National security and defense
- Emergency management
- Environmental monitoring
- Transportation and logistics
- Urban and regional planning
- Agriculture and natural resources
- Infrastructure and utilities
- Public health
- Data science and artificial intelligence
College and Career Pathways
This certificate serves as a stackable credential that can support future study in:
- GIS and Geospatial Science
- Geomatics
- Remote Sensing
- GeoAI and Data Science
- Environmental Science
- Civil Engineering
- Urban Planning
- Computer Science
- Geography
- Public Safety and Emergency Management
Credits may apply toward future degree and certificate programs according to institutional transfer policies.
Professional Engagement Opportunities
Students may have opportunities to participate in:
- Guest lectures from industry professionals
- Geospatial career exploration activities
- Internship pathway briefings
- Applied geospatial projects
Students must successfully complete three courses (9 credit hours) to earn the High School GIS Certificate.
Required Courses (6 Credits)
University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL)
GIS 1000: Exploring Geospatial Thinking and Technology (3 credits)
Attach the Course flyer (provided)
Lindenwood University
GEO 20400: Remote Sensing (3 credits)
Attach the Course flyer (provided)
Select One Additional Course (3 Credits)
Option 1: Saint Louis University (SLU)
GIS 2010: Introduction to Location Science
Attach the Course flyer (provided)
Option 2: Harris-Stowe State University (HSSU)
GEOG 0401: Geographic Information Systems
Attach the Course flyer (provided)
All majors must meet the general education requirements of the university in addition to completing degree-specific curriculum requirements.
Review Full Degree Requirements
Non-Missouri Residents: Prospective students are responsible for reviewing the NC-SARA state authorizations page to see if this program is offered in their state throughout their program and to review the licensure or certification requirements for the state in which they reside.
UMSL Geospatial Collaborative
Program Leadership
Dr. Reda Amer
Director, UMSL Geospatial Collaborative
University of Missouri–St. Louis
https://www.umsl.edu/geospatial/index.html
314-516-4838
UMSL Advanced Credit Program (ACP)
The UMSL Advanced Credit Program serves as the central administrative hub for dual-credit enrollment, eligibility verification, and transcripted college credit processes.
High School GIS Certificate Coordinator
Mr. Bradley Griggs
(314) 516-7005
Ready to Get Started?
For Students
Explore college-level geospatial learning while still in high school.
For Parents
Help your student earn college credit and discover exciting STEM career pathways.
For School Counselors
Expand opportunities for students through a structured college and career pathway.
For School Districts
Partner with regional universities to bring geospatial education into your schools.
Apply Now
Request Information
Partner Your School
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