How to apply

Admission to the the GIS certificate program does not require any prerequisite courses or prior experience in GIS or geography. Admission is competitive and space in the program is limited. Coursework in the program assumes a working knowledge and confidence with computers, office software (such as Microsoft Word and Excel) and Internet browsers (such as Firefox and Internet Explorer).

The GIS application requires:

• Two professional or academic references (you provide name and contact information only; the faculty will contact your references)
• Short essays on your interest in GIS, what you expect to bring to the program, your career goals and your computer experience
• Your current resume

Application deadline

The application deadline for 2012-2013 is June 1, 2012. Applications completed after June 1 will be placed on a waiting list. Admission decisions are made by mid-July. Classes begin September 24, 2012.

If you are a current UW Tacoma student . . .

• Complete the online GIS application form.

If you are NOT a current UW Tacoma student . . .

• You must submit an Application for Nonmatriculated Admission, indicating "GIS Certificate," and pay the $60 application fee.
• Then complete the online GIS application form.
• You must also submit an official transcript from the college/university you most recently attended. If you have additional transcripts which you feel are relevant to your application, you are welcome to submit those as well. Send your transcripts to:

University of Washington Tacoma
Attn: Urban Studies
Campus Box 358437
1900 Commerce Street
Tacoma, WA 98402-3100

If you are a UW Tacoma alumni, we should have access to your transcripts and will not require you to submit an official copy; please contact us with any questions.