For Titan alum Sara Brehm, the Geographic Information Systems Certificate program at CSUF University Extension provided a career boost. As a marine debris program coordinator and GIS specialist at Tampa Bay Watch, she pursued the online GIS program because of its flexibility around a demanding work schedule.
In just nine months, students can earn this certificate by completing four project-based courses. Through these courses, students master geographic data collection, system integration and advanced analytical techniques. These skills open doors to roles in public agencies, healthcare, insurance, law enforcement and environmental organizations like Tampa Bay Watch.
“The GIS certificate helped advance my existing knowledge and supported my current career by driving more complex project analyses,” Brehm said.
Through feedback about map layout design during courses, she also improved the artistic aspects of cartography. This is important for providing clarity and visualization for the audience at her current job.
“Our organization is very volunteer-driven,” Brehm said.
Her final project reviewed the travel distances for Tampa Bay Watch’s volunteers from their home ZIP codes to each restoration project. Brehm used tools and analyses practiced in class to understand which project volunteers were traveling the furthest.
“I also mapped out volunteer participation by county, which yielded surprising results,” she said. “Our volunteers travel from all over Florida to participate.”
While artificial intelligence is becoming prevalent in GIS and assisting its processes, Brehm acknowledges that there are significant ecological concerns associated with it.
“I would recommend a minimalistic approach to using AI and instead, focus on developing skills and techniques that make you a unique and experienced analyst,” Brehm said.
She also emphasizes the value of leveraging instructor feedback. The program’s instructors are industry professionals with real-world experience. She said building those relationships and applying their insights to projects adds immense value to both academic projects and long-term career goals. Don’t just listen to feedback, act on it in every exercise and project, said Brehm.
Visit the University Extension website to learn more about the certificate program.