Top 10 GIS Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for GIS technicians in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge. They provide employers with evidence that a GIS technician is capable of performing the tasks required to do their job. Certifications also show potential employers that the technician has taken the initiative to learn and develop their skills, which can be a valuable asset when searching for employment. Additionally, certifications can help GIS technicians stand out from other applicants who may not have any qualifications or experience in this field. Ultimately, having certifications can give GIS technicians an advantage when competing for jobs.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for GIS Technicians and explains how they can contribute to a gis technician's career growth.

What are GIS Technician Certifications?

GIS Technician Certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual has acquired the necessary knowledge and skills to work as a Geographic Information System (GIS) technician. GIS technicians are responsible for collecting, organizing, analyzing, and interpreting geographic data for various purposes such as land use planning, engineering projects, environmental monitoring, and public health research.

Having GIS Technician Certification helps demonstrate competency in the field of GIS technology and provides evidence of professional development. It also adds credibility to an individual's resume when applying for jobs in the field or related fields. GIS Technician Certification validates a person's understanding of how to use GIS software programs such as ESRI ArcGIS and Quantum GIS to create maps, analyze spatial data, and solve complex problems. Additionally, certified individuals can demonstrate their ability to integrate different types of data into one system or database.

In addition to job-related benefits, having GIS Technician Certification can help individuals stay up-to-date on current trends in the industry while providing networking opportunities with other professionals in the field. Many certifying organizations also offer continuing education courses which can help individuals keep their skills sharp over time.

Pro Tip: When considering a GIS Technician Certification, make sure to research the various certifications and requirements. Also, look into what types of jobs you could be eligible for with each certification. This will help you choose the best option for your career goals.

Related: What does a GIS Technician do?

Top 10 GIS Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to GIS Technicians today.

1. Esri Certified Professional

Esri Certified Professional is a certification program offered by Esri, the world’s leading provider of geographic information system (GIS) technology. It provides recognition for individuals who demonstrate proficiency in the use of Esri software and technology. The certification is designed to help organizations identify and hire qualified GIS professionals.

The certification process consists of two parts: an online exam and a hands-on practical exam. The online exam tests knowledge of GIS concepts, tools, and techniques; while the hands-on practical exam evaluates skills in applying those concepts to real-world scenarios.

The entire certification process typically takes several months to complete, depending on the individual's experience level and availability for study and practice time. To begin the process, individuals must first register with Esri and pay a fee that varies depending on their location. After registering, they will be provided with access to study materials such as tutorials and practice exams to help them prepare for the exams.

Once an individual has completed both exams successfully, they will be awarded their Esri Certified Professional certificate. The cost of the certification program varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

2. Autodesk Certified Professional

Autodesk Certified Professional is a certification program offered by Autodesk, Inc., a leader in 3D design, engineering, and entertainment software. The certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of proficiency in the use of Autodesk products. It requires passing an online exam that tests knowledge and skills related to the specific Autodesk product or technology.

To become an Autodesk Certified Professional, you must pass one or more exams related to Autodesk products. Each exam typically takes about two hours to complete and covers topics such as product features, commands, and workflow. To prepare for the exam, it is recommended that you take an authorized training course from an Autodesk Training Center or use self-paced learning materials available on the Autodesk website.

The cost of becoming an Autodesk Certified Professional varies depending on which exams you take and where you take them. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $150-$200 USD. Additionally, some training centers may offer discounts if you purchase multiple exams at once.

Once you have passed all required exams for your chosen certification track, you will receive an official certificate from Autodesk confirming your status as an Autodesk Certified Professional. This certificate is valid for three years from the date of issue and can be used to demonstrate your expertise when applying for jobs or other opportunities related to your field of expertise.

3. GISCI Geospatial Core Technical Certification

GISCI Geospatial Core Technical Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge, skills and abilities of individuals in the geospatial industry. It is offered by the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI), an independent, non-profit organization that provides certification programs to enhance professional development and promote excellence in geospatial technology. The certification is designed to demonstrate competency in core technical skills related to geographic information systems (GIS) and other related technologies.

The GISCI Geospatial Core Technical Certification requires passing a written exam with a score of 70% or higher. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as data management, spatial analysis, cartography, remote sensing, programming, and web mapping. Candidates must also submit proof of at least one year of professional experience working with GIS or related technologies.

The cost for the GISCI Geospatial Core Technical Certification is $375 USD for members of GISCI and $475 USD for non-members. The cost includes the application fee and the exam fee.

The process typically takes two to three months from start to finish. After submitting an application, candidates will receive an email within two weeks containing instructions on how to register for their exam date and time slot. Once registered, candidates have up to six months to take their exam before their registration expires. After passing the exam, candidates will receive their official certificate from GISCI within four weeks.

4. GISP Certification

GISP (Geographic Information Systems Professional) certification is a professional certification program administered by the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI). It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in the field of geographic information systems (GIS). The GISP credential is designed to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of GIS principles, practices, and technology.

The GISP certification process typically takes about three months from start to finish. To become certified, applicants must first pass an online exam that covers topics such as spatial analysis, data management, cartography, and remote sensing. Applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in the field and provide letters of reference from employers or colleagues. Once all requirements are met, applicants can apply for the certification through the GISCI website.

The cost of becoming a GISP varies depending on the country you live in and whether or not you’re already a member of GISCI. In the United States, it costs $200 to take the exam plus an additional $100 for membership fees if you’re not already a member. There may be additional costs associated with submitting your portfolio and obtaining letters of reference.

Once certified, there are annual maintenance fees associated with keeping your certification active which range from $50-$100 depending on your country.

5. USGIF GIAC GIS Professional Certification

The USGIF GIAC GIS Professional Certification is a certification program that recognizes the skills and knowledge of professionals in the geospatial intelligence field. It is designed to validate the expertise of individuals who have a deep understanding of GIS technology, its applications, and its implications for national security. The certification requires successful completion of an exam covering topics such as geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, cartography, global positioning systems (GPS), and other related technologies.

It typically takes approximately four weeks to complete the certification process. First, applicants must register with USGIF and pay the associated fee. Once registered, applicants must then take an online assessment to determine their eligibility for the certification exam. After successfully completing this assessment, applicants can then schedule their exam date and location with Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers.

The cost for taking the GIAC GIS Professional Certification Exam is $599 USD. This fee covers both the registration fee and the cost of taking the exam itself. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with scheduling your exam at a testing center if you choose to do so.

Once you have taken and passed your exam, you will receive your official GIAC GIS Professional Certificate from USGIF within 4-6 weeks after passing your exam.

6. Remote Sensing and GIS Technician Certificate Program

The Remote Sensing and GIS Technician Certificate Program is a comprehensive program that provides students with the skills necessary to work in the field of remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS). The program covers topics such as aerial photography, digital image analysis, cartography, GPS technology, and GIS software. It also includes courses on data management and analysis, programming for GIS applications, and project management.

The program typically takes about two years to complete. During this time, students will take classes in remote sensing technology, spatial analysis techniques, and GIS software. They will also participate in hands-on projects designed to help them gain practical experience in the field.

To get the certificate, students must complete all required coursework as well as pass an exam at the end of the program. The exam tests their knowledge of remote sensing and GIS principles and practices.

The cost of the program varies depending on where it is taken; however, it typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000. This cost usually includes tuition fees as well as any materials needed for coursework or exams.

7. Bentley Institute GIS Technician Certificate Program

The Bentley Institute GIS Technician Certificate Program is a professional certification program designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of geographic information systems (GIS) technology and its applications. The program covers the fundamentals of GIS, including data collection, analysis, mapping, and visualization. It also provides an introduction to the use of GIS software for creating and managing spatial data.

The Bentley Institute GIS Technician Certificate Program is a self-paced online course that can be completed in as little as 8 weeks. During this time, students will learn about the basics of GIS technology, how to create maps with various software programs, and how to use GIS tools for data analysis. Students will also gain hands-on experience with real-world projects.

To get the Bentley Institute GIS Technician Certificate Program, you must first complete all required courses and pass an exam at the end of each course. After completing all courses and passing the exams, you will receive your certificate from Bentley Systems Incorporated.

The cost of the Bentley Institute GIS Technician Certificate Program varies depending on which courses you choose to take. The cost can range from $500-$1000 USD depending on which courses you select.

8. GeoTech Center GIS Technician Certificate Program

The GeoTech Center GIS Technician Certificate Program is a comprehensive program designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become a certified GIS technician. The program consists of three courses: Introduction to GIS, Advanced GIS Concepts, and Professional GIS Applications. Each course is designed to give students an in-depth understanding of the different aspects of geographic information systems (GIS).

The program takes approximately six months to complete, depending on the student’s prior experience and background. To get started, students must first complete an online application and submit their transcripts. After acceptance into the program, students will be required to attend classes at the GeoTech Center in person or via webinar. The cost of the program is $2,500 USD for all three courses.

Upon completion of all three courses, students will receive a certificate from the GeoTech Center that verifies their successful completion of the program. This certificate is recognized by many employers as proof of competency in GIS technology and can be used as part of a resume or job application.

9. National Center for Geographic Information and Analysis (NCGIA) GIS Technician Certificate Program

The National Center for Geographic Information and Analysis (NCGIA) GIS Technician Certificate Program is an online program designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become a successful GIS technician. The program consists of four courses that cover the fundamentals of GIS, including data collection, analysis, cartography, and project management. The courses are self-paced and can be completed in as little as two months.

To get the NCGIA GIS Technician Certificate, students must complete all four courses and pass a final exam with a score of 70% or higher. Upon completion of the program, students will receive an official certificate from NCGIA.

The cost for the NCGIA GIS Technician Certificate Program is $595 USD. This fee covers all course materials, access to online resources, and the final exam.

10. FEMA Emergency Management Institute (EMI) Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technician Course

The FEMA Emergency Management Institute (EMI) Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technician Course is a three-day course designed to provide participants with an understanding of the fundamentals of GIS and how it can be used in emergency management operations. The course focuses on the use of GIS to create, manage, analyze, and visualize geospatial data for emergency management activities. Participants will learn how to use GIS software to develop maps, create layers and perform spatial analysis.

The course is offered at the EMI campus in Emmitsburg, Maryland or online through FEMA’s Virtual Academy. The course takes approximately 21 hours to complete.

To get the GIS Technician Course, you must first register for a FEMA Student Identification Number (SID). Once you have your SID number, you can register for the course by visiting https://training.fema.gov/apply/. There is no cost associated with this course; however, if you are taking it online through the Virtual Academy there may be a fee associated with the registration process.

Do You Really Need a GIS Technician Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a GIS Technician Certificate to work as a GIS Technician. However, having such a certificate can give you an edge in the job market, and it can also demonstrate your commitment to the field of GIS.

A GIS Technician Certificate proves that you have taken courses to learn about Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and associated technologies. It shows employers that you have invested in your knowledge about this specialized field. This certificate allows you to stand out from other applicants who may not have taken any courses or training related to GIS. Having this certification implies that you are well-versed in the latest technologies used in GIS and can apply them effectively on the job.

In addition, having a GIS Technician Certificate may make it easier for you to get hired by certain organizations or companies that use GIS technology. These employers often require applicants to possess specific skills and qualifications before they will consider them for employment. A GIS Technician Certificate is one way of demonstrating that you have acquired the necessary knowledge and experience required for the position.

Finally, having a GIS Technician Certificate gives you access to career advancement opportunities within your current organization or when looking for new positions elsewhere. This type of certification demonstrates that you are serious about continuing your education and professional development in order to stay abreast of changes in the field of GIS technology. In addition, some organizations may offer financial incentives or bonuses for employees who hold certifications in their fields; having a GIS Technician Certificate could qualify you for these benefits.

Overall, while it is not necessary to have a GIS Technician Certificate in order to work as a GIS technician, possessing this credential can help open doors both within your current organization and when searching for new positions elsewhere. It also demonstrates your commitment to staying up-to-date with changes in the field of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology which could lead to career advancement opportunities down the road.

Related: GIS Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About GIS Technician Certifications

Q1: What is a GIS Technician Certification?

A1: A GIS Technician Certification is an industry-recognized credential that verifies knowledge and skills in geographic information systems (GIS). It typically involves passing one or more exams to demonstrate proficiency in GIS concepts, technology, and applications.

Q2: Who should get a GIS Technician Certification?

A2: GIS Technician Certifications are useful for professionals who are looking to advance their careers in the field of geographic information systems. They can also be beneficial for those who are new to the field and want to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.

Q3: What is the cost of a GIS Technician Certification?

A3: The cost of a GIS Technician Certification varies depending on the provider and type of certification you choose. Generally, it ranges from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

Q4: How long does it take to get certified?

A4: The amount of time it takes to become certified depends on your experience level, how much time you dedicate to studying, and which certification you choose. Generally speaking, most certifications can be completed within several months or less.

Q5: Are there any prerequisites for getting certified?

A5: Most certifications do not have any prerequisites but some may require some prior experience with GIS technologies or applications. Be sure to check with the certification provider before enrolling in any course or exam.