EAEE E4009: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for Resource, Environmental, and Infrastructure Management

Course Overview

This course introduces you to the principles and practical applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), with a focus on spatial data analysis, automation, and decision-making tools. You will learn how to represent real-world features as spatial data, manage and analyze both vector and raster datasets, and automate workflows using Python and Model Builder in ArcGIS Pro. Through hands-on projects, you will develop the skills to use spatial references, perform geoprocessing operations, build spatial models, and create clear and effective cartographic maps.

The course emphasizes the use of programming to manage large datasets and repetitive tasks, fostering problem-solving and independent project work. Topics include coordinate systems and projections, spatial data structures and geoprocessing of raster and vector data, SQL-based attribute queries, data visualization, 3D modeling, and principles of basic GIS models.

By the end of the course, you will be equipped to apply GIS across a wide range of industries, including urban planning, environmental management, emergency response, and infrastructure development. With GIS becoming an essential tool in both public and private sectors, this course prepares you for careers in a rapidly growing field with strong real-world impact and high earning potential.

Course Instructor

Yuri Gorokhovich

Adjunct Professor

Dr Yuri Gorokhovich is an adjunct professor in the Department of Earth and Environmental Engineering (EEE) at Columbia University (1999 – present) and a professor at Lehman College, Department of Earth, Environmental and Geospatial Sciences, City University of New York (2009 – present). His research and teachings combine geologic and geographic methods, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS), to assess, model, and map current and historical natural hazards and disasters. Before starting teaching at Columbia University in 1999, Gorokhovich was a GIS group manager (1993 – 2000) with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP), Division of Water Quality and Control (DWQC). As GIS manager, Gorokhovich created the first GIS system at NYCDEP and applied GIS analysis for the watershed protection, including land acquisition strategy and modeling, water quality mapping and analysis. In 1999, Gorokhovich was invited by EEE to create the first GIS course at Columbia University.