Description
Geomatics is an applied science concerned with the collection, integration, management, and analysis of geospatial data. It encompasses a broad range of technical domains including geodesy, geographic information systems, global navigation satellite systems, hydrography, mapping, photogrammetry, remote sensing, and surveying. In their work, geomatics engineering professionals use a wide range of technologies, such as sonar, 3D laser scanning (lidar), satellite positioning and navigation, imaging systems, and information technologies for applications related to geography, law and commerce, land development and planning, and land surveying and mapping. Geomatics professionals regularly collaborate across many disciplines such as earth sciences, archaeology, economics, urban planning, and transportation given that geomatics data are a critical component to support many applications and address real-world challenges that improve the quality of life for all.
The geomatics engineering minor at Oregon State is a unique, transcript-visible opportunity for undergraduate students from many disciplines to prepare for an exciting career in this dynamic field.
Most geospatial focused companies hire new graduates with degrees in general engineering disciplines, such as Civil, Forestry, Environmental, or Mechanical Engineering. Students who complete our geomatics curriculum acquire the powerful combination of specialized technical expertise of fundamental concepts and experiential knowledge with practical applications that industry seeks to assist with the maintenance, design, and construction of the infrastructure society depends on.
Undergraduate Information
The undergraduate minor in geomatics engineering requires 34 credits, most of which can be double-counted with core curriculum and technical electives required for the B.S. degrees in Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering Management, and Forestry Engineering. The courses selected in this minor were strategically selected to: (1) Assist students in obtaining professional licensure; and (2) Help employers identify graduates that have the knowledge and experience required to succeed in a geomatics profession. A subset of the courses applicable to this minor include:
• CE 202: Civil Engineering: Geospatial Information and GIS
• CE361: Surveying Theory
• CE461: Photogrammetry
• CE463: Control Surveying
• CE465: Oregon Land Survey Law
• CE460: UAS For Surveying and Mapping Applications
• Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon (PLSO), OSU Student Chapter
• American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS), OSU Student Chapter
