Want to take your GIS skills to the next level? This class teaches you how to automate GIS tasks using the Python scripting language. Automation can make your work easier, faster, and more accurate, and knowledge of a scripting language is a highly-desired skill in the GIS profession. In this class, we dedicate time to programming fundamentals so that the skills learned can be applied to languages other than Python. You'll benefit by increasing your ability to solve geospatial problems through the use of programming.
Students who take GIS Programming and Software Development will use:
What’s the best way to determine if this class is for you? Check out the syllabus! This page shows all materials, how you’ll be graded, and lists assignments and a timeline for the class.
This class is part of Penn State's award winning Online Geospatial Education portfolio of programs, which includes the Master of GIS degree and certificates in GIS, GEOINT, and Remote Sensing. All of these programs are taught online and designed around the needs of working professionals.
Questions about this course or our programs? We're here to help! You can talk to our faculty or touch base with students who have taken this class.
"With human resources being one of the major constraints of doing more with GIS, automation is a key, if not a necessary, part of our operation. Not only did GEOG 485 make me a better coder, it made me a better manager because now I have a better understanding of where to invest staff hours developing scripting tools to improve speed and accuracy"
- Jim Daly, GISP
"After taking the class, I was able to apply Python at work immediately. It has helped speed up long processes, and make projects more accurate and efficient. I now feel comfortable investing the time in writing code, instead of approaching things the long way."
- James Carpenter, GISP
This course is part of Penn State’s Online Geospatial Education portfolio of programs. For more information on our award-winning courses, certificates, and degree options, click below.