Geographic Information Systems

On successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Demonstrate a clear conceptual understanding of GIS principles, spatial data models (vector and raster), coordinate systems, and projections. 
• Confidently navigate and utilise ArcGIS Pro, including project management, map views, layouts, and catalogue management. 
• Design, create, and manage geodatabases and spatial datasets following best-practice data management principles. 
• Perform attribute queries, spatial queries, joins, relates, and advanced table operations. 
• Create and edit spatial data using professional digitising and topology techniques. 
• Apply core geoprocessing tools, including clip, buffer, intersect, dissolve, and union, within structured analytical workflows.
• Conduct intermediate spatial analysis, including proximity analysis, overlay analysis, raster analysis, and spatial statistics such as hot spot analysis and density mapping.
• Automate workflows using ModelBuilder and understand the fundamentals of geoprocessing automation.
• Design publication-quality maps with appropriate cartographic principles.
• Export and share GIS outputs for professional, web-based, and stakeholder communication.

Day 1 – GIS Foundations and ArcGIS Pro Essentials
Understanding GIS concepts and spatial thinking; raster vs vector data models; coordinate systems and projections; introduction to ArcGIS Pro interface; projects, maps, layouts and catalogue pane; connecting to ArcGIS Online; data types and file structures. 
Day 2 – Data Management and Visualisation
Geodatabases: structure, advantages and best practice; creating and managing feature classes; working with tables and attribute data; field creation, calculation, joins and relates; data cleaning and preparation; advanced symbology and classification methods; labelling and thematic mapping. 
Day 3 – Creating, Editing and Core Spatial Analysis
Digitising techniques and editing workflows; creating new spatial datasets; topology basics and data integrity; selection methods using attribute and spatial queries; core geoprocessing tools including buffer, clip, intersect, union, dissolve and merge. 
Day 4 – Intermediate to Advanced Spatial Analysis
Raster analysis fundamentals; reclassification and suitability modelling; density analysis; Hot Spot Analysis; spatial statistics overview; introduction to ModelBuilder for workflow automation. 
Day 5 – Professional Mapping, Automation and Capstone Project
Cartographic principles and design; layout design for professional reports; map elements and standards; export formats and sharing options; introduction to web maps; capstone applied project in which participants define a spatial problem, design a workflow, execute analysis, produce a professional-quality map, and present findings.

The course will be delivered through presentations, discussions, guided exercises, and independent practical work. Guided practical exercises are supported by optional extension tasks to allow participants to progress at their own pace and explore more advanced applications where appropriate. 

There is no formal assessment for participants attending the course as a standalone short course.