A geographic information systems (GIS) analyst is someone who studies and analyzes geographic information. He may also assist in the creation of GIS databases and provide a variety of GIS services. A person who wishes to work as a GIS analyst typically completes high school and then pursues a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Some GIS analysts pursue master’s degrees in the hopes of expanding their job opportunities or obtaining higher-level positions with better pay. An aspiring GIS analyst will typically spend four years pursuing a bachelor’s degree; if he chooses to pursue a master’s degree, he will likely need to devote two to three additional years of study.
A bachelor’s degree in GIS, geography, environmental science, computer science, or a related subject is usually required to work as a GIS analyst. Some GIS analysts begin their careers after earning forestry or survey engineering degrees. A person pursuing a degree in this field may take classes in GIS and mapping, as well as cartography, measurement analysis, and historical geography. A bachelor’s degree is usually sufficient to get started in this field, but some people opt for a master’s degree to expand their career options.
While education is essential for becoming a GIS analyst, the development of specific skills may be just as important. A person interested in working in this field must have strong analytical skills as well as math, problem-solving, and statistical abilities. A person interested in pursuing this career should have excellent computer skills. Additionally, good written and verbal skills may be required, as this job frequently requires the creation of reports and the explanation of technical information to people with no technical background.
A GIS analyst might work in the fields of science, business, government, or technology. In fact, companies in the shipping industry may require these abilities. The specific responsibilities of a GIS analyst are determined the needs of his employer. A person in this field, on the other hand, usually analyzes data in databases and then uses that data to assist in the creation of GIS databases. A person with this title may, however, perform geographic research, provide GIS support, and even find ways to integrate GIS technology with other technologies in some jobs.