Geographic Information Systems - Bachelor of Technology at British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-15

Program overview

Program Overview

The BCIT Bachelor of Technology in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) degree is designed to enhance career opportunities and foster professional growth. GIS technology is essential in various fields, including urban planning, environmental studies, and engineering. This program caters to both recent graduates and seasoned professionals looking to advance their careers. With a focus on integrating GIS technology into diverse professions, students will gain valuable skills applicable in sectors such as public health, land use planning, and natural resource management. The program offers both in-person and online delivery options, making it accessible to a wide range of students.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Technology in GIS program is structured to provide a comprehensive education in geospatial technology. The program consists of a total of 82 credits divided into several components:

Technical Courses: 45.0 credits
Management Courses: 9.0 credits
Industry Project: 16.0 credits
Liberal Studies Component: 12.0 credits

The program can be completed in two modes:

Full-time: Typically completed within one academic year (35 weeks of instruction) with additional studies through flexible learning.
Part-time: Delivered fully online, allowing students to progress at their own pace, with a maximum completion time of seven years.

Students are required to complete a minimum of six months of relevant work experience to graduate. The program emphasizes practical skills and knowledge, preparing graduates for various roles in the GIS field.

Featured Experiences

Industry Project: Students undertake a major independent project in GIS technology, collaborating with industry sponsors and faculty advisors.
Flexible Learning Options: The program offers both full-time on-campus and part-time online learning, catering to diverse student needs.
Hands-on Experience: Students engage in practical applications of GIS technology, enhancing their technical skills and real-world problem-solving abilities.
Collaboration with Industry: The program benefits from input and support from industry professionals, ensuring relevance and currency in the curriculum.

Career Options

Graduates of the Geographic Information Systems program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

GIS Analyst: Responsible for analyzing spatial data and creating maps to support decision-making in various sectors.
Urban Planner: Utilizes GIS technology to develop land use plans and policies that guide urban development.
Environmental Consultant: Applies GIS tools to assess environmental impacts and develop sustainable solutions for clients.
Data Scientist: Analyzes complex datasets, including spatial data, to derive insights and inform business strategies.
Geospatial Technician: Supports GIS projects by managing data, performing quality control, and assisting in the development of GIS applications.

These roles highlight the versatility of a GIS degree, opening doors to opportunities in both the public and private sectors.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) official website

Last updated on 2025-07-15

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Geographic Information Systems - Bachelor of Technology program, applicants must meet the following Academic Requirements:

Post-secondary education: Applicants must have one of the following from a recognized institution:
- Diploma (minimum 60.0 credits)
- Associate degree
- Bachelor's degree
- A minimum of 60.0 credits of courses from one or more recognized post-secondary institutions, including:
  - 3.0 credits in BCIT Communications courses or equivalent
  - 18.0 credits at the second-year or higher level
International applicants: The full-time option is available to international applicants. The part-time option is available to international applicants who will complete the program from outside Canada or who currently have a valid status in Canada other than a study permit.
Study permit: A valid BCIT study permit is required prior to starting the full-time program. International students completing the program fully online are not eligible for a study permit.
Applicants who have completed post-secondary studies outside of Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, or New Zealand will require a comprehensive evaluation of their credentials by the International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES). Credential evaluation reports from other Canadian services may be considered. These reports must include course-by-course evaluations and GPA calculations.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For any clarification and support regarding the admission process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

To apply for the Geographic Information Systems - Bachelor of Technology program, you must demonstrate proficiency in English. The following English Language Proficiency assessments are accepted for Category 2, which is applicable to this program:

English Studies 12 or English First People 12 or Acceptable equivalent high school course - 67%
BCIT English Competency Assessment:
- COMM 0015 – English Competency Assessment and COMM 0033 – English Speaking and Listening Assessment - 70%
COMM 1009 – Technical Writing: Definitions, Instructions and Process Descriptions - 67%
COMM 1106 – Introduction to Business and Technical Communication (With Language Development Component) - 67%
BCIT Professional English Language Development (PELD):
- COMM 0030 – Speaking and Listening Skills for EAL Students 2 and COMM 0005 – Technical Communication Skills for EAL Students 4 - 70%
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Test - 70 overall band score with no component below 60
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - Overall score 6.5 with no band less than 5.5
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) - Overall score 60 with no skill score less than 60
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT) - Overall score 86 with no section score less than 20

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!