Saint Paul College Programs

Geomatics (Land Surveying) and Mapping Sciences

Overview

Land Surveying (Geomatics or Geomatics Engineering) is the science, art and technology of locating relative positions on, above or below the surface of the earth. The program includes site design and hydrology. The geography focus is on mapping (cartography) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). (Program Brochure)

For additional information about recommended Course Sequence, Minimum Program Entry Requirements and Program Outcomes, please see the Program Guide Sheets.

Available programs, courses and course descriptions:
• Geomatics (Land Surveying) and Mapping Sciences AS Degree
• Geomatics Advanced Technical Certificate
• Remote Sensing Advanced Technical Certificate

What You'll Learn

• How to use surveying instruments such as levels, theodolites, total stations, survey data collectors and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) in the field.
• Learn AutoCAD and land development desktop CAD software.
• Basic land surveying theory and computations.
• Public land survey system and basic boundary surveying.
• Introduction to GIS software such as ArcMap (ESRI).
• Prepare maps and site plans.
• Land surveying standards of practice and procedures.

Career Settings

• Field and office positions with city, county, and state governments
• Surveying, engineering, GIS, and consulting services
• Contractors/Developers
• Geographic Information Systems user groups

Potential Employers

• Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT)
• County and city departments of Public Works and Surveyors Offices
• Surveying and engineering consulting firms

Additional Benefits

• Learn from experienced instructors who teach in a "hands-on" environment.
• With additional education and experience, prepare to take the Minnesota Registered Land Surveyors examination.
• Variety of work experience available in the field or office
• Graduates are prepared to work with civil engineers, geologists, land surveyors, cartographers, and geographic information systems professionals.
• Historically, demand for graduates from this program far exceeds the number of graduates available.