geomatics uas hero image

Learn to measure, map, model, and analyze the world through majors, minors, certificates, and the next generation of unmanned systems.


Why Oregon Tech for Geomatics?

  • Hands-on, career-focused learning
  • Surveying and GIS/Remote Sensing expertise
  • Flexible online and campus formats
  • Access to cutting-edge tools and software
  • Strong employer network and internships

Program Options

Geomatics brings together measurement science, mapping, positioning, software, and spatial analysis. Students can choose a full major, add a minor to another degree, complete an online GIS certificate, or pursue the Unmanned Systems option.

Geomatics Student
Bachelor of Science
Certificate
Bachelor of Science
Certificate

Admissions

1st Floor, College Union

Major

B.S. Geomatics — Surveying Option

Build expertise in land surveying, GIS, GNSS, geodesy, boundary and cadastral systems, and field operations while preparing for professional practice and licensure.

Surveying Option Requirements

Major

B.S. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Option

Build expertise in spatial analysis, programming, remote sensing, databases, web mapping, and applied GIS through hands-on projects using real-world geospatial data.

GIS Option curriculum

Minor

Minor in Surveying option

Add practical skills in land measurement, field surveying, GNSS, and mapping to complement a degree in engineering, construction, environmental science, GIS, or another applied field.

Surveying Option Curriculum

Minor

Minor in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Develop practical skills in cartography, spatial analysis, remote sensing, databases, and web and mobile mapping to complement your primary field of study.

GIS Minor requirements

Certificate

Online GIS Certificate

18 credits | Complete in as little as 9 months

Build career-ready GIS skills through a flexible online program designed for working professionals. Learn ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, spatial data management, spatial analysis, and professional map design, then apply your knowledge in a real-world capstone project.

Online GIS Certificate Requirements

Major (Begins Fall 2027)

B.S. Geomatics - Unmanned Systems (US) Option

Design, build, operate, and analyze unmanned systems through hands-on experience with UAS hardware, flight planning and operations, sensors, remote sensing, geospatial data analysis, AI-enabled applications, and capstone projects.
 

Program information

Oregon Tech’s Surveying option prepares students for professional practice through measurement science, boundary law, geodesy, field methods, and hands-on experience supporting the path toward professional licensure. 

Measure

Model

Apply

Lead

Collect precise field data using total stations, GNSS, levels, scanners, and modern mapping technologies.

Transform field observations into maps, surfaces, plats, construction layouts, and professional deliverables.

Apply surveying and geospatial knowledge to land development, transportation, infrastructure, utilities, natural resources, and construction projects.

Prepare for professional licensure, ethical practice, and responsible decision-making in surveying and geomatics 

Program Highlights

  • Boundary law, cadastral systems, and professional practice 

  • GNSS, geodesy, route surveying, and construction layout 

  • Photogrammetry, LiDAR, field-data processing, and mapping 

  • Hands-on laboratories, field courses, internships, and capstone projects 

  • Preparation for professional licensure and careers in surveying and infrastructure 

Oregon Tech’s GIS option prepares students to transform spatial data into maps, models, applications, and actionable information for communities, organizations, infrastructure, and the environment. 

Analyze

Visualize

Automate

Apply 

Use spatial analysis and modeling techniques to solve complex location-based problems.

Create maps, dashboards, imagery products, and geospatial stories that clearly communicate complex information.

Use Python, geodatabases, web GIS, mobile technologies, and repeatable workflows to manage and process spatial data.

Support decision-making in planning, natural resources, emergency management, business, transportation, infrastructure, and public safety. 

Program Highlights

The option should be positioned around location intelligence, data communication, and applied decision support.

  • GIS analysis, cartography, spatial modeling, and geo-visualization

  • Remote sensing, imagery, raster analysis, and environmental monitoring

  • Databases, Python scripting, web GIS, and mobile mapping

  • Client-based projects, applied labs, and professional communication

  • Applications in planning, infrastructure, natural resources, and public safety 

Begins Fall 2027

Oregon Tech’s Unmanned Systems option goes beyond learning how to operate drones. Students follow a complete Design–Build–Fly–Analyze process, developing unmanned aircraft and transforming sensor data into decision-ready geospatial products. 

Design

Build

Fly

Analyze

Design unmanned aircraft using engineering graphics, CAD, and system-design principles. Develop airframes, structural components, propulsion configurations, electronics architecture, payload mounts, and other mission-specific features.

Fabricate and assemble unmanned aircraft while integrating motors, flight controllers, embedded computers, communication systems, sensors, and payloads. Test and refine system performance through simulation and hands-on laboratory work.

Plan, simulate, and conduct safe missions using FAA-aligned operating practices, airspace awareness, flight planning, operational checklists, and hands-on flight laboratories.

Transform aerial imagery and sensor data into maps, three-dimensional models, AI-assisted analysis, and decision-ready reports. 

Program Highlights

  • Drone design using engineering graphics, CAD, and system-design principles 

  • Airframe fabrication, electronics integration, embedded systems, and payload development 

  • Flight simulation, mission planning, FAA regulations, and hands-on flight laboratories 

  • Remote sensing, sensors, and UAV-based geospatial data acquisition 

  • GIS analysis, Python programming, databases, and web and mobile mapping 

  • Capstone projects integrating the complete Design–Build–Fly–Analyze process 

  • Applications in infrastructure, agriculture, environmental monitoring, public safety, transportation, and defense 

What students learn to do

Collect Precise Geospatial Data 

 

Use surveying instruments, GNSS, mobile mapping systems, drones, and remote sensors to collect accurate and reliable geospatial data.

Process and Analyze Data 

 

Apply GIS, Python, spatial analysis, remote sensing, databases, and AI-assisted tools to identify patterns and support informed decisions. 

 

Communicate Results Professionally 

 

Create maps, models, mission reports, technical documentation, and decision-support products for clients, communities, and partner organizations. 

 

Work Safely and Ethically 

 

Follow professional standards, field-safety procedures, responsible data practices, and, when applicable, FAA regulations and airspace requirements. 

 

Design and Build Geospatial Systems 

 

Design unmanned aircraft and integrate airframes, electronics, sensors, payloads, embedded systems, software, and geospatial workflows to meet specific mission needs. 

 

Lead Applied Projects 

 

Guide projects from problem definition and system design through mission planning, data collection, analysis, presentation, and implementation 

 

Learn in the field, the lab, and the regional innovation network.

Geomatics Students

Oregon Tech's advantage is the combination of a polytechnic learning model, established surveying and GIS strengths, FAA Part 107 expertise, drone fleet and labs, and industry-connected opportunities in Southern Oregon.

  • Geospatial Research and Training Center
    Applied research, student projects, workforce development, and community-facing geospatial support.
     
  • Oregon Manufacturing Innovation Center
    Potential access to prototyping, fabrication, materials testing, and advanced manufacturing collaboration.
     
  • Oregon UAS Accelerator
    Industry mentoring, startup connections, commercialization pathways, and internship possibilities.
     
  • 173rd Fighter Wing, Kingsley Field
    Regional airspace integration opportunities and collaboration around deconfliction and joint operation training.
Michael Sanchez
Class of 2026
“I chose Oregon Tech for the school being one of the top engineering and medical schools in the state and offered a four-year geomatics program that prepares and provides the resources to set up to pass the FS exam starting a surveying career.”

The departmental faculty advise students. View the list of academic advisors.

If a student is unsure who their assigned academic advisor is, please contact the department chairperson or the Academic Advising office below.

Accredited by the Applied Science Accreditation Commission o

Accredited by the Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commission’s General Criteria and Program Criteria for Geomatics - Surveying Option, BS.

Jobs and Careers in Geomatics

Geomatics graduates are not locked into one job title. They can work across land development, infrastructure, environmental monitoring, public safety, transportation, utilities, natural resources, defense, and emerging autonomous systems.

oregon_tech_geomatics

Examples of Professional Roles

Professional land surveyor
GIS analyst or geospatial data specialist
Remote sensing technician
Geospatial systems engineer
Rhine-Cross Group
Infrastructure or environmental mapping specialist

Costs

For the differential rates of Oregon Tech special programs, majors, as well as mandatory fees. 
Please visit our Tuition and Fees Page.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Scholarships are available for students from all walks of life—first-time college students, career changers, and everyone in between. Take the first step toward an affordable, high-quality education and let us help you build the skills you need for a brighter tomorrow.

Program News