More than a map—geographic information system (GIS) helps us to answer the question "where?" The UWF GeoData Center guides our partners, students, faculty and staff using geospatial technologies that change the way we view the world. Through collaborative analysis and visualization, we use cutting edge applications of GIS technologies in order to inform and deliver innovative solutions to critical societal issues.
With applications in a wide variety of industries and occupations, our GIS undergraduate and graduate certificates and master’s degree in Geographic Information Science Administration prepare our students to become interdisciplinary data scientists and highly skilled GIS professionals.
UWF is the only University in Florida designated as an Esri Development Center (EDC). The EDC program confers special status and benefits upon a select few leading university departments that challenge their students to develop innovative applications based upon the ArcGIS platform.
Programs
UWF GIS offers undergraduate and graduate certificates as well as a GIS Admin, M.S., that incorporates a business core for career advancement.
GIS ProgramsServices
The UWF GeoData Center leverages the latest geographic data information technology to help our clients make informed decisions that solve complex problems.
ServicesPortfolio
UWF GeoData Center and GIS student research and projects showcase the creation of maps, software applications and code, and other geospatial tools.
PortfolioFeatured UWF GIS Research and Announcements
Mapping Transboundary Viewshed Changes in the Wake of Hurricane Impacts on the Developed Shoreline
UWF Earth and Environmental Science student Taylor Smith is assisting Dr. Derek Morgan in his continued research on the effects of sea level rise on land use changes. The project aims to investigate the potential impacts of projected sea level rise (SLR) on land use patterns in three coastal areas.
Detecting Wildfires with Deep Learning and Satellite Imagery: The California Wildfire GeoImaging Dataset
UWF student Valeria Martin presents a Python-based approach for detecting wildfires using deep learning and high-resolution satellite imagery. This research offers valuable contributions to wildfire detection, geospatial data science, and the broader field of remote sensing for environmental applications.
UWF student provides wildlife sanctuary with valuable data on rescued animals
Recent graduate James “Brian” Barnes put his UWF education in geographic information science to good use by helping the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge (ECWR) uncover trends on rescued wildlife in Northwest Florida. The results from his Fall 2024 semester capstone project are providing a better understanding on several topics.
GIS mapping helps focus UWF's search for Fort Kirkland
Led by the University of West Florida Archaeology Institute, the search is on for Fort Kirkland, an early to mid-1800s fortification in north Okaloosa County that was burned down and lost to history. A significant part of the project is identifying where to look for the fort. And, that’s where Jennifer Melcher’s GIS in Anthropology class comes in.
Ranked #9 for the Best Online Master's Degree in GIS
UWF has been ranked #9 for the Best Online Master's Degree in Geographic Information Systems by University Headquarters (UniversityHQ). University HQ is a resource for finding top rated colleges, scholarships, potential salaries to help students the right career and navigate through the higher education process.
