Online Cartography Degree Program Information

Cartography is the study of mapmaking. Today, cartography uses photographic and computerized information to generate mappings that are far more precise than was previously possible. Cartography is a highly technical profession, requiring knowledge of geography, digital imaging and graphic design. The most common online program in cartography is the graduate certificate.

Online Graduate Certificate in Cartography

This advanced certificate is designed for those who already possess bachelor's degrees, preferably in geography or a related field. If prospective students do not have any background in geography, they may need to take some basic geography courses before beginning a certificate program.

Program Information and Technical Requirements

Typical online graduate certificate programs in cartography take about one year to complete. Some of the programs are delivered entirely online, using online teaching software to deliver the course material and facilitate 2-way interaction between teachers and students. Other programs require some on-campus presence of the student.
Due to the heavy use of computers in mapping, access to an Internet-connected computer is a necessity. In addition to the teaching software, a typical course will require the use of geographic information systems (GIS), global positioning systems (GPS) and graphic design software programs. Each student must also have a Web browser, like Mozilla Firefox or Internet Explorer, along with free Internet programs like QuickTime, Acrobat or Flash.

List of Common Cartographic Courses

The essence of cartography is both visual and mathematical. Courses train students to sharpen their math skills and their visual abilities, including their senses of proportion, shape, color and perspective.

Remote Sensing Course

Students are taught the basics of remote sensing, which is the collection of information by the use of aircraft, satellites or spacecraft. Students use image processing software to enhance, analyze, identify and classify various remotely sensed images, such as aerial photographs.

Maps and Mapping Course

Students are taught how to use, create and interpret maps. Topics such as map abstraction, map projections and map symbols are studied. Also examined are special purpose and thematic maps. Students learn how to achieve a balance between the amount of information that needs to be relayed versus keeping the map readable and aesthetically pleasing.

Geographic Information Systems Course

Students are introduced to the history and uses of GIS. They learn the ways that data in GIS systems is structured, the sources of GIS data and the available GIS tools. In lab exercises, students will be required to generate maps and perform simple spatial analyses.

Career Information for Cartographers

Cartographers generally find work in architectural firms, engineering firms or in government offices. They might also find employment with surveying contractors that do work for the construction industry.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expected in 2008 that the number of available jobs for cartographers would increase by 27% through 2018 (www.bls.gov). Much of this increase is due to the popularity of GPS devices that require constantly updated maps. Per the BLS, experienced cartographers, with bachelor's degrees and technical expertise, made an average annual salary of $51,180 in 2008.

Continuing Education for Cartographers

Some U.S. states require cartographers to be licensed as surveyors. This may require prospective cartographers to take additional courses in surveying in order to pass the necessary exams.
Some individuals may also want to pursue master's degrees in cartography. Master's degree programs in cartography are offered regularly on campus, but are harder to find through online or distance learning.