Program and Course Search
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Geographic Information Systems - Bachelor's Degree
Overview
GIS allows experts to map any type of spatial data so that it is interactive, complex and layered with valuable information. Be a specialist in demand in this field that touches a variety of industries from business to health care and environmental sciences. It can be used as a tool within almost every industry, including:
- Businesses like market-driven banking, ultimate client service and asset management
- Engineering like transportation planning, disaster management, use of historical data and terrain analysis
- Urban, rural and community planning
- Climate research, flood damage estimation
- Wildlife conservation, natural resource planning, water management
- Resource development and land management
- News and entertainment support, telecom and network services
- Government administration, taxation
- Health and medical research
- Law enforcement, accident analysis
Applied Research & Innovation Centre
Our GIS courses are also complemented by applied research and innovation taking place on campus at Selkirk Innovates, giving you opportunities to use and understand GIS in current real-world situations. You’ll get essential training, individual access to an advanced workstation, and exposure to projects.
Professional Training & Hands-on Experience
Within our state-of-the-art facilities, you'll get powerful, progressive hands-on experience and classroom instruction in subjects like:
- GIS applications and automation
- Remote sensing
- Internet mapping
- Database development and management
- Customized application programming
- Global positioning systems (GPS)
- 3D visualizations
- Data management techniques
- Open source, open data, and related software applications
- Drone data collection and utilization
Program Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, learners will be able to:
- Explain how project management principles support successful GIS projects
- Support a multi-stakeholder environment through engagement with GIS
- Apply strategies that improve communication with the understanding of different audiences through collaboration, public speaking, presentation, technical writing and dialogue
- Exhibit positive, professional behaviours that maximize opportunities for improved relationships and career success
- Acquire, convert and handle different spatial and non-spatial data
- Implement processes to assess and document the source, history, quality, and appropriate use of spatial and non-spatial information
- Explore new solutions; adapt new technology and troubleshooting
- Demonstrate proficiency managing, analyzing, and automating spatial data tools within GIS environment
- Synthesize geospatial data into meaningful results
- Answer relevant research questions effectively
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements for ADGIS and BGIS Programs
- The minimum requirement for entry into the Advanced Certificate, ADGIS, or Year 3 of the BGIS program is successful completion of 60 credits from a diploma/associate degree or applied/academic degree from an accredited post-secondary institution with an average GPA of at least 2.33.
- Successful completion (“C” grade) of a 100 or 200 level introductory statistics course is required for students planning to complete the BGIS.
- International students will be expected to provide documentation of English proficiency as per Policy 8611.
Minimum entry is also possible with equivalent education or work experience, such as a background doing research or using GIS and/or other computer software.
Letter of intent, not exceeding 500 words, stating your background and interest in the field of geographic information systems.
Demonstrated competency in computer technology, including spreadsheet use, word processing, computer graphics and presentations is required. In addition, international students will be expected to provide documentation of English proficiency (refer to the college calendar for requirements).
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.
Courses
GIS427 - Project Management
GIS 427 Project Management will focus on skills pertaining to issues surrounding the management of GIS projects from start to finish. Emphasis areas will include description of the project work environment, organizational skills and tools, deliverable oriented performance appraisals, leadership and team orientation. In addition to these emphasis areas, supporting information covering costing, budgeting, meeting preparation, time management and communication skills will be addressed.
GIS492 - Bachelor of Geographic Information Systems Thesis
GIS 492 Bachelor of Geographic Information Systems Thesis involves the design and planning of an independent research project. Tasks include a literature review of the background information, experimental design, data acquisition and management, analysis, and technical reporting (written, visual, and oral). Students will have the opportunity to apply geospatial technology theory and skills to a real world project with an experienced supervisor. Course deliverables will include a project proposal, a proposal poster presentation, four progress reports, a completed geospatial product, a final thesis document, and a thesis defense seminar. This course is normally started in the fall with approval of the School Chair.
You must take:
three (3) General electives (these could be UAS electives or GIS electives)
These electives must be approved by the School Chair prior to registration.
GIS435 - Statistics and Spatial Data Management
GIS 435 Statistics and Spatial Data Management is a two part course that starts with a review of essential statistical techniques and secondly focuses on statistical approaches used in spatial analyses. Emphasis will be placed on integrating practical examples into course exercises and projects. Basic statistical concepts of exploring data, probability distributions, hypothesis testing, one sample, two sample tests, regression, ANOVA, and model building will be addressed using real data and a variety of computer software. Students will explore geostatistical functions such as interpolation, point pattern analysis, kernel density estimation, kriging and trend surface analysis in the second part of the course.
GIS437 - Emerging Trends In GIS
GIS 437 Emerging Trends in GIS. As the vast field of Geomatics and specifically GIS changes and evolves on the technical level, new ways to do things are continually being introduced. To stay abreast of these important changes, Emerging Trends in GIS will focus on exposing learners to practice a variety of current, high-level and technical topics with a focus on the following main areas: Open Source GIS, GIS in the Cloud, mobile applications, ArcGIS Pro and Augmented Reality. In addition, learners may be exposed to integrating ArcGIS functionality within Microsoft Office products, gaming, the incorporation of time (4D) and a general reliance on Location Based Services. Topics may change as industry demands.
You must take:
two (2) General electives (these could be UAS electives or GIS electives)
These electives must be approved by the School Chair prior to registration.
Tuition & Fees
All amounts are estimates and are subject to change. Tuition amounts are based on a full-time course load. Please note that many programs have additional costs beyond those listed here. For more information, please visit Tuition & Fees.
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Office Administration and Technology - Bookkeeping Certificate
Overview
Part-time, online, nine months—starts every September and finishes by May.
Part-time means that you should schedule 20 hours per week for assignments and studying.
Learn bookkeeping fundamentals and much more! Understand the full bookkeeping cycle from set-up and beyond. Get first-hand experience with accounting software and payroll administration. Build your communication, teamwork and presentation skills.
Through hands-on practical experience, you will learn:
- Proficient, touch typing
- Computer applications such as Word and Excel
- Databases
- Professional document production
- Interpersonal and professional communication skills
- Accounting concepts and procedures
- The accounting cycle
- To create and modify accounting records
- To prepare and analyze financial statements
- payroll fundamentals
- Sage (Simply Accounting) software
- Employability skills
- Professionalism
Program Outcomes
Admission Requirements
In addition to meeting the general entrance requirements for admission to Selkirk College, applicants must meet the following Office Administration and Technology Program requirements:
Office Administration and Technology Certificate (Office Assistant and Bookkeeping Concentrations):
- English Studies 11 with a minimum of 60% or higher, or equivalent
- For international applicants, IELTS 6.0 overall band score with no band below 5.5, or equivalent on other internationally recognized English Language Proficiency Tests
- Any Math 10 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 60%
NOTE: Students that do not meet all admission requirements may complete the College Readiness Tool (CRT) to confirm required math and English levels.
The deadline for receiving required documentation is stated in the student’s admissions letter.
An interview (in person or by telephone) with the program coordinator (or designate) may be required before entry to the program.
Where space permits, students may be admitted up to the end of the first week of the course. Admission beyond this point will only be possible with the approval of the instructor(s) involved.
The minimal requirement for graduation is a cumulative program GPA of 2.67 or equivalent standard.
Courses
OTEC100 - Online Learner Success
OTEC 100 Online Learner Success (OLS) provides students with a working knowledge of the Moodle online learning platform utilized by all Selkirk College online courses. Students submit assignments, discussion postings, emails, and quizzes to gain experience in working in an online classroom environment. This course is essential for student success in online studies.
OTEC110 - Keyboarding I
OTEC 110 Keyboarding I provides students with the necessary techniques to keyboard accurately at a minimum of 35 net words per minute using the alpha and numeric keyboard. Starting with finger placement, students learn how to type alphabetic keys, numbers, punctuation and symbols quickly, accurately, and without looking at a keyboard. This course or the equivalent skill is essential for those interested in an office career and for subsequent computer courses where keyboarding is required.
OTEC111 - Keyboarding II
OTEC 111 Keyboarding II is an advanced keyboarding course designed to increase keying speed and accuracy to a minimum of 50 net words per minute on a five minute timing. Students cover the alphabetic and punctuation keys, keyboard numbers, and symbols. Keyboarding software provides immediate feedback and records results. Lessons must be completed successfully within the required accuracy goals before advancement. This course or the equivalent skill is essential for those interested in advancing in an office career.
OTEC115 - Administrative Computer Applications
OTEC 115 Administrative Computer Applications introduces essential computer skills required in any office career. Students learn terminology and how to use popular computer applications utilizing the Windows operating system. File Explorer, Windows Accessories, web browser basics, web navigation and research, internet security, blogs and social media are covered. Students also learn email etiquette and how to use Microsoft Outlook for composing, sending and receiving email messages, managing contacts, task creation, and calendar scheduling.
OTEC120 - Business Math and Calculators
OTEC 120 Business Math and Calculators teaches the touch method of calculator use, explains common calculator features, and emphasizes business and personal problem solving. Multiplication, division, the memory function, decimals, fractions, percentages and discounts are all introduced as well as the metric system and conversions. Students use practice drills throughout the course to enhance speed and accuracy.
OTEC135 - Business Communications
OTEC 135 Business Communications is designed to teach students how to plan, organize, and write accurate and effective reader-friendly business documents appropriate for use in today's global business environment. Design and strategies are covered for various business letters, memos, reports, proposals and electronic messages. A situational focus groups business communications into three categories: daily, persuasive, and negative. Practicing techniques for all three, students learn to communicate and respond effectively and professionally in a variety of workplace situations.
OTEC150 - Word Processing I
OTEC 150 Word Processing I is designed to teach students basic functions of a word processing program as well as how to properly format business documents including letters and memorandums. Business standards in all documents are upheld throughout the course. Microsoft Word software is utilized as the learning platform; however, skills can be transferred to most word processing programs.
OTEC153 - Spreadsheets
OTEC162 - Employability Skills
OTEC 162 Employability Skills will help students develop successful job search strategies for today's competitive and changing job market. Topics include self-assessment, workplace skills, creating on online presence, job search strategies and research, using the Internet for job search and career planning, networking, resumes, employment-related communications, application forms, portfolios, and interviews. Students also explore the role of human resources, occupational health & safety, employment standards, and Worksafe BC.
OTEC170 - Bookkeeping I
OTEC 170 Bookkeeping I provides students with an introduction to manual accounting. Emphasis is placed on fundamental accounting principles and their application in day-to-day business situations. This course is based on a service business organized as a sole proprietorship. Students cover basic bookkeeping skills including double-entry general journal entries, posting to the general ledger, preparing a trial balance, recording adjustments in a ten-column worksheet, producing period-end financial statements, closing the temporary accounts, maintaining petty cash, and preparing bank reconciliations.
OTEC171 - Payroll
OTEC 171 Payroll is an introduction to payroll procedures and employer responsibilities with regards to deductions and submissions. Students will practice manual payroll calculation and preparation. Topics of study include calculating employees' earnings and deductions, calculating employer payroll expenses, recording and remitting employees' deductions, and employers' annual responsibilities for filing the T4 summary form.
OTEC172 - Bookkeeping II
OTEC 172 Bookkeeping II is an intermediate approach to manual accounting. Students will gain additional knowledge in common accounting systems including sales, purchases, taxes, and inventory. The concepts will be presented in the context of a merchandising business. Topics of study include specialized journals, combined journals, merchandise inventory, HST/GST/PST, year-end procedures and worksheets, and annual reporting. Financial statements will be prepared in detail including a classified balance sheet, an income statement with a cost of goods sold section, and a statement of owner's equity.
OTEC175 - Computerized Accounting
OTEC 175 Computerized Accounting introduces students to an integrated computerized accounting system using Sage 50 Accounting for Windows. Utilizing business scenarios, students will establish company records; maintain daily transactions using the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, inventory, and payroll features; and create financial statements.
OTEC181 - Capstone: Bookkeeping
OTEC 181 Capstone: Bookkeeping helps students extend their accounting, word processing and database, and spreadsheet software knowledge by completing a variety of practical, integrated projects. Students will also further develop decision-making, prioritizing, organizing, and other administrative skills.
Office Administration and Technology - Office Assistant Certificate
Overview
Full-time, online, six months—starts every September and completes in February.
Full-time means that you should schedule 35 hours per week for assignments and studying.
The Office Assistant Certificate also has a part-time entry in January. Courses finish at the end of February and then resume in September. This is a perfect gradual start to determine whether the online classroom environment is right for you. Please note that part-time study lengthens completion time and affects student qualification for funding—ask us.
Through hands-on practical experience, you will learn:
- Proficient, touch typing
- Accounting fundamentals and practices
- Up-to-date productivity software, such as Word and Excel
- Interpersonal and professional communication skills
- Customer service techniques
- Professional document production
- Employability skills
- Personal and office organization
- Team-building skills
- Professionalism
Program Outcomes
Admission Requirements
In addition to meeting the general entrance requirements for admission to Selkirk College, applicants must meet the following Office Administration and Technology Program requirements:
Office Administration and Technology Certificate (Office Assistant and Bookkeeping Concentrations):
- English Studies 11 with a minimum of 60% or higher, or equivalent
- For international applicants, IELTS 6.0 overall band score with no band below 5.5, or equivalent on other internationally recognized English Language Proficiency Tests
- Any Math 10 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 60%
NOTE: Students that do not meet all admission requirements may complete the College Readiness Tool (CRT) to confirm required math and English levels.
The deadline for receiving required documentation is stated in the student’s admissions letter.
An interview (in person or by telephone) with the program coordinator (or designate) may be required before entry to the program.
Where space permits, students may be admitted up to the end of the first week of the course. Admission beyond this point will only be possible with the approval of the instructor(s) involved.
To be promoted a student must achieve a minimum grade of 50% in every course.
The minimal requirement for graduation is a cumulative program GPA of 2.67 or equivalent standard.
Courses
OTEC100 - Online Learner Success
OTEC 100 Online Learner Success (OLS) provides students with a working knowledge of the Moodle online learning platform utilized by all Selkirk College online courses. Students submit assignments, discussion postings, emails, and quizzes to gain experience in working in an online classroom environment. This course is essential for student success in online studies.
OTEC110 - Keyboarding I
OTEC 110 Keyboarding I provides students with the necessary techniques to keyboard accurately at a minimum of 35 net words per minute using the alpha and numeric keyboard. Starting with finger placement, students learn how to type alphabetic keys, numbers, punctuation and symbols quickly, accurately, and without looking at a keyboard. This course or the equivalent skill is essential for those interested in an office career and for subsequent computer courses where keyboarding is required.
OTEC115 - Administrative Computer Applications
OTEC 115 Administrative Computer Applications introduces essential computer skills required in any office career. Students learn terminology and how to use popular computer applications utilizing the Windows operating system. File Explorer, Windows Accessories, web browser basics, web navigation and research, internet security, blogs and social media are covered. Students also learn email etiquette and how to use Microsoft Outlook for composing, sending and receiving email messages, managing contacts, task creation, and calendar scheduling.
OTEC120 - Business Math and Calculators
OTEC 120 Business Math and Calculators teaches the touch method of calculator use, explains common calculator features, and emphasizes business and personal problem solving. Multiplication, division, the memory function, decimals, fractions, percentages and discounts are all introduced as well as the metric system and conversions. Students use practice drills throughout the course to enhance speed and accuracy.
OTEC130 - Business English for Professionals
OTEC 130 Business English for Professionals focuses on correct English usage in a business environment and provides students with a comprehensive study of grammar, punctuation, and style, as well as business spelling and vocabulary development. This course is essential for students seeking successful careers in management, administration, communication, and related areas in which a high level of English language skill is required.
OTEC135 - Business Communications
OTEC 135 Business Communications is designed to teach students how to plan, organize, and write accurate and effective reader-friendly business documents appropriate for use in today's global business environment. Design and strategies are covered for various business letters, memos, reports, proposals and electronic messages. A situational focus groups business communications into three categories: daily, persuasive, and negative. Practicing techniques for all three, students learn to communicate and respond effectively and professionally in a variety of workplace situations.
OTEC140 - Administrative Procedures
OTEC 140 Administrative Procedures - students will master essential organizational skills and develop efficient office practices in preparation for entry into the contemporary office. Preparing students for the office environment that requires workers to communicate effectively, think critically, apply problem-solving skills, and work effectively with other members of the office team. Students will look at the rapid pace of change in the office of today and understand office workers need the ability to develop new skills and understand new processes as jobs evolve.
OTEC150 - Word Processing I
OTEC 150 Word Processing I is designed to teach students basic functions of a word processing program as well as how to properly format business documents including letters and memorandums. Business standards in all documents are upheld throughout the course. Microsoft Word software is utilized as the learning platform; however, skills can be transferred to most word processing programs.
OTEC151 - Word Processing II
OTEC 151 Word Processing II is a continuation of Word Processing I and is designed to progress students beyond the basic functions of a word processing program to further enhance documents. Students are introduced to some of the more advanced features of Word including automating formatting, utilizing special Word features, merging documents, and customizing documents. Business standards in all documents are upheld throughout the course. Microsoft Word software is utilized as the learning platform; however, skills can be transferred to most word processing programs.
OTEC153 - Spreadsheets
OTEC160 - Human Relations
OTEC 160 Human Relations concentrates on personal and professional development skills needed by workers in today's workplace. Students will study and practice these skills including self-examination and assessment, self-motivation and goal setting, stress management, time management, effective communication, interpersonal skills, handling conflict, client relations, teamwork, problem solving, and an understanding of business ethics.
OTEC161 - Service Delivery
OTEC 161 Service Delivery concentrates on development of fundamental customer service skills required by workers in today's office. Students acquire skills including self-assessment, understanding and controlling barriers to customer service, determining customer needs, problem solving, developing opportunities, empowerment, effective communication, self-motivation and goal setting, and the use of technology. Customer-focused companies are profiled to examine how they promote excellence in customer service.
OTEC162 - Employability Skills
OTEC 162 Employability Skills will help students develop successful job search strategies for today's competitive and changing job market. Topics include self-assessment, workplace skills, creating on online presence, job search strategies and research, using the Internet for job search and career planning, networking, resumes, employment-related communications, application forms, portfolios, and interviews. Students also explore the role of human resources, occupational health & safety, employment standards, and Worksafe BC.
OTEC170 - Bookkeeping I
OTEC 170 Bookkeeping I provides students with an introduction to manual accounting. Emphasis is placed on fundamental accounting principles and their application in day-to-day business situations. This course is based on a service business organized as a sole proprietorship. Students cover basic bookkeeping skills including double-entry general journal entries, posting to the general ledger, preparing a trial balance, recording adjustments in a ten-column worksheet, producing period-end financial statements, closing the temporary accounts, maintaining petty cash, and preparing bank reconciliations.