Geographic Information Systems, Bachelor

4-Year at Castlegar

Program Calendar

2011

• September 6 - Student Orientation
• September 7 - Fall semester instruction begins
• December 10 - Fall semester instruction ends
• December 13 - 22 - Fall semester examinations

2012

• January 3 - Winter semester instruction begins
• February 13 - 17 - Reading Break
• April 8 - Winter semester instruction ends
• September 4 – Get Connected student orientation
• September 5 – Fall semester instruction begins
• December 7 – Fall semester instruction ends
• December 10 – 21 – Fall semester examinations

 2013

• January 2 – Winter semester instruction begins
• February 11-15 – Reading Break
• April 5 – Winter semester instruction ends
• April 8-16 – Winter semester examinations

Program Summary

The Bachelor in Geographic Information Systems (BGIS) is a program that provides unrivaled flexibility in gaining a high sought after skill set that can be applied in a larger varity of diciplines.

The BGIS gives you a unique opportunity to add extensive knowledge of cutting-edge technology to an existing career specialty. If you’re getting ready to launch your career in health care, land management, resource development, environmental planning, climate research or a related field, consider the value of a BGIS.

Pathways to Bachelor’s degree

Typical applicants for the BGIS degree enter with a minimum 60 credit pre-requisite diploma, associate degree, or degree in a related discipline such as geography, environmental sciences, computer science, or business. This allows direct entry into the Advanced Diploma in GIS (ADGIS) 12 month program. The ADGIS diploma forms the basis of 300 and 400 level courses required as part of the degree

To complete the Bachelor’s degree in GIS applicants need to fulfill the following:

• Pre-requisite 60 credit diploma, associate degree, or degree in a related discipline such as geography, environmental sciences, computer science, or business,
• Minimum of 56 credits residency are required at Selkirk College in semesters 6-8. This generally includes the ADGIS 300 and 400 level courses,
• An additional 15 credits in University Arts and Science are required from subject areas in Geography (9 credits) and Business studies (6 credits) are required to complete the degree.
• Completion the thesis completion course GIS 492. This course outlines the pathways to completing the thesis requirements, reporting requirements, and faculty review schedules. Enrollment in GIS 492 is accepted in an ongoing basis.

Note: Applicants that have pre-requisite credentials with greater than 60 credits may apply for advanced credit to satisfy the elective stream course requirements.

Admission Requirements

1. Academic
   1. The minimum requirement for entry is completion of a recognized college diploma/associate degree or applied/academic degree from an accredited post secondary institution in a related discipline. Such related disciplines include environmental studies, geology, surveying, geography, forestry, business, law enforcement, municipal planning, wildlife biology, emergency services, health care, surveying, recreation, or another field deemed acceptable by the School Chair. Minimum entry is also possible with equivalent education or work experience such as a background doing research or using the software programs described in 2 below.
   2. Demonstrated competency in computer hardware and software technology, including database management, spreadsheet use, word processing, computer graphics and presentations is required. In addition, some proficiency with GIS software applications is recommended. Demonstrated competency includes evidence of successful completion of course work at the 100 or 200 level. Applicants without GIS software experience may be required to complete a basic introductory course prior to program admission.
   3. Students may be required to complete the Computer Placement Test for assessment of their English and Math skills prior to entry into the program if they have not previously done so at Selkirk College. This will be the case unless they meet the stated exemptions outlined in Selkirk College Policy B3003.0: Pre‑Admission Basic Skills Assessment. International students will be expected to provide a TOEFL exam score of 550 or above unless they have equivalent documentation of English proficiency. (A "B" or above in English 12 or an LPI score of 4 or above would be examples of such equivalency.)
   4. Applicants may be required to complete modules in mathematics, writing and computer technology skills if knowledge gaps in one or more of these areas are identified by the School Chair.
2. General
   1. Personal Reference. All applicants must submit two personal references on the form provided in the application package.
   2. Letter of Intent.
      All applicants must complete a brief essay of 500 words or less that states their background and personal interest in the Advanced Diploma in GIS. Applicants should highlight experience in GIS and computer skills in their essay.
3. Specific Requirements for Students Without A Formal Credential from an Accredited Post-Secondary Institution
   1. An applicant with reasonable potential for success on the basis of work experience or other criteria may be admitted, notwithstanding some deficiency in prior formal education.
   2. Applicants with no accredited post‑secondary credential may require academic upgrading. They are urged to apply for the program at least one year in advance.

Application Procedure

1. Before an applicant's file is considered complete, the following must be received by the Admissions Office:
   1. Completed application form,
   2. Completed Reference Forms
   3. Official transcripts of all relevant post-secondary education,
   4. Official transcripts of high school grades will be required for applicants entering without a credential from an accredited post-secondary institution,
   5. Two personal reference forms completed by a current or previous instructor, counsellor or employer, e.g., supervisor. Personal references should be submitted by the referee directly to the Admissions Office. (Photocopies are not acceptable),
   6. Completed letter of intent.

Approximate Expenses

Total program expenses are comprised of both College Fees and Program Specific Fees.