
Learn core GIS analysis in QGIS through a project-based introduction to geographic information systems, remote sensing, and OpenStreetMap data, using the latest open source QGIS with hands-on practice.
Explore the basics of geodata in GIS, comparing vector and raster types, including points, lines, polygons and pixel-based data like elevation and land cover.
Discover free data sources for your projects, including natural resource data, open data portals, and satellite imagery from Google Maps, Sentinel Hub, USGS Earth Explorer, and Google Earth Engine.
QGIS, the leading free and open source GIS software, offers a user-friendly desktop interface, powerful geospatial analysis, cartography, and extensible plugins backed by a supportive community.
Install the latest long-term release of QGIS and avoid experimental builds; this lab covers version updates, cross-platform use (Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android), and interface differences while ensuring course compatibility.
Install QGIS on your computer by selecting the right release for your platform, download the Windows installer, agree to the license, and run the long term releases for geospatial analysis.
Master core GIS analysis in QGIS by managing versions and plugins, installing stable releases, and installing plugins from zip archives.
Load vector data into QGIS by adding shapefiles, either via drag-and-drop or add vector layer, then check coordinate system alignment and rearrange layers so subway stations appear on top.
Learn to visualize vector layers in QGIS by adjusting the symbology, colors, and line widths to depict subway stations, green spaces, facilities, and boundaries clearly.
Identify features in the map view, open attribute tables, and practice selecting subway stations in QGIS by area or a single click, and by expression.
Add and visualize raster files in QGIS 3.16 by loading layers, adjusting color ramps, and inverting ramps to reveal spatial patterns in the study area, such as nitrogen dioxide pollution.
Save your QGIS project frequently to preserve symbology, labeling, and the current zoom. Use save as to name and store the project in its vault folder with loaded layers.
Define remote sensing as using electromagnetic radiation sensors to record and interpret earth observation images, highlighting advantages like up-to-date, synoptic data and the need for processing and corrections.
Download Landsat images for land use mapping in qgis using the semi-automatic classification plugin, sourcing data from USGS, NASA, and Copernicus Open Access Hub.
Create multiband stacks from Landsat 8 images in qgis, visualize true and false color composites, and use the Semi-Automatic Classification Plugin to analyze Amazon rainforest vegetation and deforestation.
Identify NYC neighborhoods for a coffee shop using QGIS analysis tools, including job processing, shapefiles, buffers, and attribute queries. Connect results to a web mapping service.
Create a new QGIS project from an existing one by saving as chapter two, then add and zoom to a census tract shapefile as a layer by dragging it in.
Learn to select vector features by location in QGIS using the select by location tool, intersect with the New York City boundary, and save the results as a shapefile.
Join census data from an Excel file to a shapefile in QGIS using a common identifier, and view attributes like population, age 18 to 49, and median household income.
Plot coordinate data from a text file in qgis, transform coordinates to match the existing layers, and save as a shapefile to map coffee shops in new york city.
Apply vector analysis in QGIS to compute mean and median percent of women aged 18-49 by New York City tracts to identify suitable tracts for coffee shops.
Count coffee shop points in each tract with QGIS, create a shapefile with a field for the count, and apply a threshold to keep tracts with two or fewer.
Copy layer symbology in QGIS to apply visual styles from one GIS layer to another, using styles, labels, and fields to enhance geospatial visualization of city demographics.
Examine the final selected areas in QGIS, inspect attributes with identify and open attribute table, and clean up the table by editing and deleting columns before final lab analysis.
Interpret GIS results by linking contexts with OpenStreetMap in QGIS, adjust layer visibility, explore geolocated areas, and discuss criteria such as property value and distance to hubs.
Demonstrate exporting maps in QGIS with OpenStreetMap layers by capturing screenshots, adjusting extent and resolution, and saving image files for presentations and stakeholder reviews.
This lab guides you to create your first map in QGIS by loading a shapefile, applying region-based symbology, and compiling print layout with legend, scale bar, and title for export.
Learn to select optimal map colors with color brewer tool, tailoring schemes for sequential, divergent, and qualitative data, with road and city overlays and export formats for QGIS and ArcGIS.
Data Exploration:
Download and load the provided Landsat 5 image into QGIS.
Inspect the Attributes and Layer Properties to identify the spatial and spectral resolutions.
Raster Analysis:
Display each band separately, noting the information each band provides about different land cover types.
Create natural and false color composites using different band combinations to visualize vegetation, water, and urban areas.
Map Layout:
Design a basic map layout for a selected area, adding essential elements like title, legend, scale bar, and north arrow.
Submission: Provide screenshots of your loaded data and composite maps, along with a brief summary of your observations on the land cover types.
Celebrate completing the core GIS analysis course and explore additional resources on Udemy, YouTube, and social media for further learning in remote sensing, data science, and machine learning.
Unveiling the World of GIS and Remote Sensing
This course provides a practical, project-oriented introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing using the newest long-term release of QGIS. QGIS is a powerful, free, and open-source geospatial platform. In this course, you will learn how to complete full GIS project workflows, including data acquisition, preprocessing, spatial analysis, and map production.
Fast-Track Your Geospatial Skills
Using real datasets and hands-on exercises, you will build practical competence in:
• GIS fundamentals
• Raster and vector data handling
• Spatial analysis techniques
• Introductory remote sensing workflows in QGIS
• Map design and data visualization
By the end of the course, you will be able to perform GIS and Remote Sensing tasks confidently and follow a structured, professional approach to geospatial project analysis.
Your Learning Path
Getting Started with QGIS
• Installation and interface overview
• Essential plug-ins
• Understanding geospatial data formats and structures
GIS Analysis Essentials
• Core raster and vector operations
• Spatial queries
• Data preparation, cleaning, and management
Remote Sensing in QGIS
• Importing and viewing satellite imagery
• Basic spectral analysis
• Working with raster layers for environmental and land-use applications
Real GIS Projects Step by Step
• Problem definition
• Data collection and preprocessing
• Spatial analysis workflows
• Map generation and interpretation
Visualize and Communicate Results
You will learn how to design clear, high-quality maps that communicate geospatial information effectively. These skills are essential for academic work, environmental decision-making, planning, and professional reporting.
Applications Across Multiple Sectors
The techniques in this course apply directly to:
• Agriculture and land use
• Environmental management
• Water and hydrology
• Geology and mining
• Forestry and natural resources
• Urban and regional planning
• Research and education
Enroll Today and Advance Your GIS Career
Begin your journey into GIS and Remote Sensing with a practical, project-based course that builds real analytical confidence. Enroll now and start conducting complete, professional GIS projects using the latest QGIS tools.