Map Your Future with the GIS Specialization in 2025-2026
Ready to unlock the power of spatial analysis? The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialization on Coursera, offered by the University of California, Davis, in partnership with Esri, is your entry into this high-demand field. Led by Top Instructor Nick Santos and Eric Howard, this four-course series has empowered 101,088 learners with a 4.8-star rating from 6,035 reviews. Designed for beginners with recommended experience, it takes just 2 months at 10 hours a week to complete.
Why GIS Skills Are Hot in 2025-2026
From agriculture to public health, GIS is transforming industries with spatial data insights. With a flexible schedule and a shareable certificate from UC Davis, it’s ideal for professionals or enthusiasts. Included with Coursera Plus, it’s your key to mapping success.
What You’ll Master in This Specialization
This four-course series builds your GIS expertise:
- Fundamentals of GIS (26 hours, 4.8/5) – Learn core concepts and tools.
- GIS Data Formats, Design and Quality (26 hours, 4.8/5) – Work with data structures.
- Geospatial Analysis with ArcGIS (12 hours, 4.5/5) – Analyze spatial data.
- GIS Applications Across Industries (16 hours, 4.6/5) – Explore real-world uses.
Through hands-on projects, like creating professional maps, you’ll shine in searches like “GIS certification 2025-2026.”
Essential Skills for Your Career
Gain in-demand skills:
- Data Analysis & Visualization: Interpret and present spatial data.
- Geovisualization: Create impactful maps.
- Databases: Manage spatial datasets.
These skills open doors in diverse fields, from urban planning to environmental science.
Learn from Top Instructors
Nick Santos, a Top Instructor with 201,410 learners, delivers practical, beginner-friendly lessons alongside Eric Howard, leveraging Esri’s industry-standard tools.
Why Coursera Excels
Coursera’s flexibility wins: “Learning at my own pace has been amazing,” says Felipe M. Jennifer J. applied skills at work, while Larry W. filled gaps. ENROLL FOR FREE NOW! to start with a 7-day free trial.
Map Your Success Today
In 2 months, you could be a GIS pro. ENROLL FOR FREE NOW! to join 101,088 learners and earn a UC Davis certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the Capstone Project?
Choose a capstone project to showcase data analysis and map-making skills, shareable digitally or in print.
What Software Is Used?
Uses ArcGIS for Desktop (ArcMap, ArcCatalog) with an intro to ArcGIS Online. A free educational license is provided.
Why Esri Products?
Esri is the most demanded GIS suite across industries, ensuring broad applicability.
What Are the System Requirements?
Requires a Windows PC. Check Esri’s site for details: ArcGIS requirements.
Can I Use a Mac?
Yes, but you’ll need to install Windows via VirtualBox, BootCamp, or similar. A Windows license may be needed post-trial—setup is your responsibility.
What Background Do I Need?
No GIS knowledge required, though familiarity speeds learning.
How Do I Verify My Identity?
Pay the fee and verify with a webcam and keyboard. See verification details or troubleshooting.
When Do Courses Start?
Most start weekly, except the capstone, which runs every 8 weeks and takes about 8 weeks to complete.
Is This Course Online?
Yes, fully online—access anytime via web or mobile.
What’s the Refund Policy?
Get a 7-day free trial with no penalty cancellation. Post-trial, no refunds, but you can cancel anytime. .
How Do I Enroll?
Click a course card to start. Audit for free or earn a certificate. Subscribing includes the full specialization.
Is Financial Aid Available?
Yes, apply if needed—check the description page.
Does This Offer University Credit?
No, but some universities may accept it. Check with your institution.
Shape the World in 2025-2026
Don’t wait—ENROLL FOR FREE NOW! to join the GIS Specialization. With a UC Davis credential and skills optimized for “GIS courses 2025-2026,” you’re ready to map your future!