Cartographers and Photogrammetrists Training Programs and Schools

Jan 12, 2024

12 Min Read

1. What are the professional qualifications required to become a cartographer or photogrammetrist?


To become a cartographer or photogrammetrist, one typically needs to have a combination of education, training, and professional certifications. These qualifications may vary depending on the specific job requirements or employer, but below are some common qualifications needed to enter the field:

1. Bachelor’s degree in cartography, geography, surveying, or a related field: Many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in one of these fields. These programs usually include coursework in geographic information systems (GIS), computer mapping, and remote sensing.

2. Knowledge of GIS and other mapping software: Cartographers and photogrammetrists need to be proficient in using GIS software and other specialized mapping tools to create accurate maps.

3. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills: In addition to technical skills, cartographers and photogrammetrists should be able to analyze data and solve problems related to creating accurate maps.

4. Experience with drafting and design tools: A background in using drafting tools such as CAD (Computer-Aided Design) is also helpful since cartographers use similar tools for map creation.

5. On-the-job training: Many employers provide on-the-job training for new employees. This can include learning about the organization’s specific techniques for collecting data and creating maps.

6. Professional certifications: While not always required, obtaining professional certifications can demonstrate expertise and credibility in the field. Some organizations that offer certifications for cartographers and photogrammetrists include the American Society for Photogrammetry & Remote Sensing (ASPRS) and the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS).

Overall, becoming a successful cartographer or photogrammetrist involves a combination of educational background, technical skills, hands-on experience, and ongoing professional development through certifications and other opportunities for advancement.

2. Are there any specific courses or certifications that are recommended for this career path?


Some possible courses or certifications that may be helpful for this career path include:

1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): This is a widely recognized certification in the field of information security, covering a broad range of topics such as security and risk management, asset security, security engineering, communications and network security, identity and access management, security assessment and testing, security operations, and software development security.

2. GIAC (Global Information Assurance Certification) certifications: These are vendor-neutral, specialized certifications in various fields of information security such as network defense, incident response, penetration testing, web application security, and more.

3. CompTIA Security+: This is an entry-level certification focused on foundational skills in information security, covering topics like threat management, identity management, infrastructure security, risk identification and mitigation.

4. Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP): A certification offered by the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP), this focuses on privacy laws and regulations from a global perspective.

5. Cloud Security Alliance Certifications: These are globally recognized credentials designed to validate knowledge about cloud computing and its best practices for implementing secure systems.

6. SANS courses: The SANS Institute offers various expert-led training courses on topics like cyber defense operations, secure coding practices and digital forensics.

Note that the appropriate courses or certifications may vary based on your specific role or area of expertise within the broader field of information assurance. It’s always worth researching which ones are most relevant for your career goals before making an investment.

3. How long does it typically take to complete a training program for cartography or photogrammetry?


The time it takes to complete a training program for cartography or photogrammetry can vary greatly depending on the specific program and the level of education desired. Generally, a certificate or associate’s degree program can take 1-2 years to complete, while a bachelor’s degree program can take 3-4 years. A master’s degree program in these fields may take an additional 1-2 years. Additionally, there are also short-term training programs and workshops that can be completed in a matter of weeks or months. The length of the program will also depend on whether it is full-time or part-time, and if the student has any prior coursework or experience that may count towards their degree requirements.

4. What are some common subjects covered in these training programs?


Some common subjects covered in training programs may include:
– Technical skills related to the specific job or field, such as software proficiency, machinery operation, or coding languages.
– Soft skills, such as communication, time management, problem-solving, and teamwork.
– Company policies and procedures, including safety protocols.
– Industry-specific knowledge and updates on new trends and developments.
– Customer service and sales techniques.
– Leadership and management skills for those in supervisory or managerial roles.
– Compliance with laws and regulations applicable to the job or industry.
– Onboarding processes for new employees.
– Professional development and career growth opportunities.

5. Are there any schools or universities that offer specialized degrees in cartography or photogrammetry?


Yes, there are several schools and universities that offer specialized degrees in cartography or photogrammetry. Some examples include:

1. University of Wisconsin-Madison – offers a Master of Science in Cartography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) program
2. Penn State University – offers a Bachelor of Science in Geography with a concentration in Mapping and Geospatial Analysis
3. University of Colorado Boulder – offers a Bachelor of Science in Geographical Sciences with an emphasis on Remote Sensing and GIS
4. University of California Davis – offers a Master of Science in Geospatial Information Systems and Science
5. Western Illinois University – offers a Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Science
6. Purdue University – offers a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, and PhD programs in Geomatics Engineering & Land Surveying
7. Ohio State University – offers a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, and PhD programs in Geographic Information Science.
8. Texas A&M University – offers undergraduate and graduate programs in Geographical Information Sciences.
9. The George Washington University – offers a Master of Professional Studies program in Geographic Information Systems for Sustainability Management.
10. Oregon State University – provides both online certificate programs as well as undergraduate and graduate degrees focused on geospatial sciences.

It is important to note that some schools may offer these programs under different names such as “Geographic Sciences” or “Geomatics,” so be sure to research the specific curriculum offerings before choosing a school or program.

6. Is hands-on training included in these programs, such as field work or lab work?


It depends on the specific program and institution offering it. Some programs may have hands-on components such as field work or lab work, while others may focus more on classroom instruction. It is important to research the specific program you are interested in to determine the level of hands-on training included.

7. Are there opportunities for internships or practical experience during the training program?


It depends on the specific training program and its structure. Some programs may offer internships or practical experience as part of the curriculum, while others may not have such opportunities. It is best to research the program you are interested in to see if it offers any hands-on experience.

8. What type of technology and software do students learn to use in these programs?


These programs may teach students how to use various types of technology and software, such as:
1. Graphic design software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for creating visual designs and layouts.
2. Animation software like Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, or Autodesk Maya for creating animated content.
3. Video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro or Avid Media Composer for editing video footage.
4. Website design software like Adobe Dreamweaver, WordPress or Wix for creating website layouts and coding.
5. 3D modeling and rendering software like Blender, SketchUp or AutoCAD for creating 3D designs.
6. Audio editing software like Adobe Audition, Avid Pro Tools or Logic Pro X for recording and editing audio.
7. Virtual Reality tools like Unity or Unreal Engine for creating immersive digital experiences.
8. Social media management tools like Hootsuite or Buffer for managing multiple social media accounts.
9. Project management tools like Trello or Asana to keep track of tasks and deadlines in group projects.
10. Coding languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Python to create web pages and interactive elements.

The specific technology and software taught may vary depending on the course requirements and focus of the program.

9. Can these training programs be completed online, or are they primarily classroom-based?


It depends on the specific program and institution offering the training. Some training programs might be available online, while others may be primarily classroom-based or a mixture of both. It is important to research each program individually to determine the mode of delivery.

10. Do students have the opportunity to specialize in a specific area of cartography or photogrammetry during their training?


It depends on the specific program and curriculum. Some schools may offer courses or concentrations in specific areas such as GIS cartography, remote sensing and photogrammetry, digital mapping, or map design. Others may have a more general cartography or geographic information science program without specific specializations. It is important to research individual programs to determine if they offer opportunities for specialization in a specific area of cartography or photogrammetry.

11. Is there a demand for trained cartographers and photogrammetrists in the job market currently?


Yes, there is a demand for trained cartographers and photogrammetrists in the job market currently. The increasing use of maps and geospatial data in various industries such as urban planning, transportation, and natural resource management has led to a demand for professionals with expertise in creating accurate and precise maps using advanced technologies. Additionally, with the growing popularity of location-based services and advancements in remote sensing technology, there is an increasing need for skilled professionals in the field of photogrammetry to collect, process, and analyze imagery data to create 3D models and maps. Thus, trained cartographers and photogrammetrists are highly sought after by government agencies, private companies, research institutes, and non-profit organizations.

12. Do these training programs also cover geospatial analysis and mapping techniques, in addition to cartography and photogrammetry?


Yes, most training programs also cover geospatial analysis and mapping techniques. These topics are often included in courses on remote sensing, GIS (geographic information systems), and spatial data analysis. These skills are crucial for cartography and photogrammetry as they involve manipulating, analyzing, and interpreting spatial data to create accurate maps and visualizations. Some programs may have specific courses or modules focused solely on geospatial analysis and mapping techniques, while others may incorporate these topics throughout the curriculum.

13. Are graduates of these programs prepared to work with both traditional maps and digital mapping tools?


Graduates of these programs are typically prepared to work with both traditional maps and digital mapping tools. They may have learned cartographic skills, such as creating maps using GIS software, as well as how to analyze data and use spatial analysis techniques. Additionally, they may have been exposed to different types of mapping technologies and software, allowing them to adapt to new tools and techniques as needed.

14. How does the curriculum of a cartography/photogrammetry training program prepare students for real-world projects?


The curriculum of a cartography/photogrammetry training program typically includes a combination of theoretical and practical courses that are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to work on real-world projects. Some ways in which this is accomplished include:

1. Teaching fundamental concepts and principles: The curriculum usually starts with courses that cover the basic concepts and principles of cartography and photogrammetry, including map projections, coordinate systems, scale, data types, etc. This knowledge forms the foundation for understanding more advanced topics and is essential for tackling real-world projects.

2. Practical exercises: Many programs include hands-on practical exercises where students use software tools and equipment commonly used in the industry. These exercises help students gain experience in applying theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios.

3. Project-based learning: In some programs, students are required to work on projects that simulate real-world scenarios. These may involve creating maps for a specific region or solving a problem using photogrammetric techniques. Such experiences give students a taste of what it’s like to work on actual projects and prepare them for future challenges.

4. Field trips/workshops: To get an understanding of how mapping and photogrammetry techniques are used in different situations, many programs organize field trips or workshops where students can see professionals at work and learn from their experiences.

5. Case studies: A curriculum may also include case studies where students analyze past mapping or photogrammetry projects to understand the challenges faced by professionals and how they overcame them.

6. Guest lectures/industry partnerships: Training programs often invite guest lecturers from the industry who share their experiences and provide insights into current practices and emerging trends. Some programs also have partnerships with industry organizations or companies that give students opportunities to work on real-world projects as part of their training.

Overall, the curriculum of a cartography/photogrammetry training program is designed to provide students with a solid understanding of mapping principles, exposure to real-world scenarios, and practical experience with industry-standard tools and techniques. This prepares them to take on a variety of projects in different settings upon graduation.

15. Are there any industry partnerships or collaborations that allow students to gain practical experience while still in school?

Yes, some schools have partnerships with industry organizations or companies that allow students to gain practical experience through internships, co-op placements, or project-based collaborations. Students may also have the opportunity to participate in research projects with industry partners. These partnerships can provide valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities for students while still in school.

16. Does the program provide guidance on certification exams for this profession?


No, this program does not provide guidance on certification exams for this profession. It is recommended to research and reach out to professional organizations or certification bodies in the field for exam preparation resources and guidance.

17. What types of jobs can graduates expect to find after completing their training?


Graduates of training programs can expect to find a wide range of jobs depending on the specific program they completed. Some common types of jobs that graduates may pursue include:

1. Healthcare: Graduates from healthcare training programs may find job opportunities in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or other healthcare facilities as nurses, medical assistants, lab technicians, or other healthcare professionals.

2. Information Technology: Those who completed IT training programs may find employment as computer support specialists, web developers, software engineers, or IT systems administrators.

3. Skilled trades: Participants in skilled trades training programs may secure work as electricians, plumbers, carpenters, HVAC technicians, or other skilled trade professionals.

4. Business and finance: Graduates with business and finance training may work in banks, financial institutions, accounting firms, or other businesses as accountants, financial analysts, managers, or consultants.

5. Education: Those who complete teacher-training programs can expect to find employment in schools as teachers or educational support staff.

6. Hospitality and tourism: Individuals who have completed hospitality and tourism training programs may find work in hotels, restaurants, theme parks/resorts as managers or customer service representatives.

7. Construction and manufacturing: Graduates from construction and manufacturing training programs can seek job opportunities in factories or construction sites as production workers, machine operators, supervisors/foremen.

8. Law enforcement and security: Participants in law enforcement and security training programs may find employment opportunities with law enforcement agencies or private security companies as police officers/security guards.

9. Social services: Graduates from social services training programs can seek employment opportunities with social service agencies such as community service organizations or non-profits working with children/families/senior citizens/etc.

10. Transportation: Individuals who have completed transportation/trucking training programs can work for trucking companies/shipping/logistics firms/travel agencies/airlines/etc., as drivers/operators/administrators/customer service representatives.

It is important to note that the types of jobs available may vary based on location, industry demand, and individual qualifications. Graduates should research their specific program and job market to determine what opportunities are available to them.

18. Are there any international opportunities available through these training programs?

It depends on the specific training program and the organization offering it. Some programs may have international opportunities available, such as study abroad or international internships, while others may be focused solely on domestic training. It’s important to research the program and its offerings before applying.

19. How does coursework on data management and accuracy play into the curriculum?


Coursework on data management and accuracy is an important aspect of the curriculum to train students on handling, analyzing, and presenting data accurately. This course teaches students different methods and tools used for data organization, storage, and retrieval. It also covers techniques for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of data collected by minimizing errors or biases.

Students learn about various data types, sources, collection methods, and the importance of maintaining integrity in the entire process. They also study different software programs that are used for managing large datasets and analyzing them effectively. The curriculum may include case studies or projects to provide practical experience in dealing with real-world data sets.

Data management and accuracy coursework are essential to train students as competent professionals who can make informed decisions based on accurate and reliable data. It also equips them with skills that are highly valued in various industries where accurate data analysis is crucial for decision-making purposes.

Overall, this coursework helps students develop critical thinking skills, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, project management skills, and technical proficiency – all of which are crucial for success in any profession that deals with large amounts of complex data.

20. Can individuals with no prior experience in this field still pursue a successful career with proper training from one of these programs?


Yes, individuals with no prior experience in this field can pursue a successful career with proper training from one of these programs. Many of these programs are specifically designed for beginners and offer comprehensive training in the necessary skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field. With dedication, hard work, and a strong desire to learn, individuals can develop the skills and experience needed to succeed in this industry.

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