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The Department of Geospatial Informatics is home to Surveying and Geomatics Sciences, Geographic Information Sciences (GIS), Geography and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).

The department consists of a group of highly trained and experienced faculty members who dedicate themselves to teaching and helping students prepare for geospatial careers with the latest technologies in both hardware and software. The department offers small-size classes and emphasizes personal attention to each student.  The goal of each professor and instructor is to see their students succeed in their respective geospatial careers. The department’s goal is to prepare students to get ready to pursue ever-growing opportunities in the geospatial professions.      

Here is what some of the faculty have to say about the department:

 “In surveying and geomatics, we use drones a lot — to collect data and to generate maps in a fast and efficient way,” said Department Chair Xutong Niu. “This department can help us unite all the expertise. We can better utilize our personnel and expand our efforts into a broader area now.”

 “The initial intent for people who joined the geomatics program was to become licensed surveyors, but the GIS focus is also giving them the additional incentive to be employable in different areas,” said Geomatics Program Director Dr. Steve Ramroop.

Dr. Niu said "I have communicated with engineering companies, law enforcement agencies and energy companies who are interested in hiring students trained in geospatial informatics. "

Dr. Ramroop added, “Another thing with geospatial informatics is it is technology driven. We are using the best of the best hardware and software, which is one reason why all of our students are employable. You name the field, and there are jobs out there for our students.”

 “It’s a growing need that more and more are recognizing,” Dr. Niu said referring to the GIS major.  “Recently I talked to a representative from the Alabama Department of Public Health, and he told me they need more GIS data. People use GIS every day, whether they realize it or not. It’s a need that is expanding worldwide, from cell phones to map services to governmental agencies."

“We want companies to know that our students are here, they are ready and they are employable,” Dr. Ramroop said. “And also, we want our students to know that companies are ready to hire them.”