Students learn how to use a Geographic Information System (GIS) to design digital maps, integrate diverse data sources, and conduct basic spatial analyses.  This course is appropriate for students with or without computer technology background, from across colleges and majors.  Extensive class time is devoted to hands-on, practical exercises with instructor support.  Solutions-focused assignments integrate publicly available and specialized information sources into commonly used software.  Students can tailor a final project to topics of personal interests. Basic GIS skills are highly employable in many careers where spatial data can be used, including social justice, public health, sustainability, town and urban planning, economic development, public safety, energy, transportation, construction, environmental hazards, political strategy, security and diplomacy, military intelligence, marketing, education, communications, real estate, and public humanities.