What are the best GIS courses on Coursera?

Top courses include Fundamentals of GIS from the University of California, Davis , and GIS, Mapping, and Spatial Analysis from the University of Toronto . These programs cover the basics of GIS, spatial data analysis, and real-world applications in fields like urban planning and environmental management.

Can I learn GIS for free on Coursera?

Yes. Many GIS courses offer a free audit option, which allows learners to access video lessons and reading materials at no cost. To complete assignments or earn a certificate, you’ll need to upgrade or apply for financial aid.

What will I learn in a GIS course?

You’ll learn how to collect and analyze spatial data, create maps using GIS software like ArcGIS or QGIS, and apply GIS skills to solve real-world problems. Topics may include cartography , spatial databases, and remote sensing.

Do I need a technical background to start learning GIS?

Not necessarily. Many beginner-level GIS courses on Coursera assume no prior experience and walk you through foundational concepts. If you’re already familiar with data analysis or mapping, more advanced courses can help you deepen your skills.

Can Coursera’s GIS courses help me in my career?

Yes. GIS skills are in demand across industries like urban planning , environmental science , logistics , and public health . Coursera’s GIS courses can help you build job-ready skills, create a professional portfolio, and earn certificates that show your expertise.

Top Gis Courses - Learn Gis Online

Find the Best GIS Course for Your Goals

Status: Free Trial
University of California, Davis
Fundamentals of GIS
Skills you'll gain: ArcGIS, Geospatial Mapping, Geographic Information Systems, Data Sharing, Spatial Analysis, Data Access, Metadata Management, Data Mapping, Data Import/Export, Data Manipulation, Data Visualization, Data Analysis, Data Quality
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
5.8K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of California, Davis
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Skills you'll gain: ArcGIS, GIS Software, Data Storytelling, Land Management, Spatial Analysis, Database Design, Data Presentation, Geographic Information Systems, Geospatial Mapping, Spatial Data Analysis, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Data Sharing, Relational Databases, Community Health, Public Health, 3D Modeling, Data Visualization Software, Data Quality, Data Management, Emergency Response
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
6.3K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Toronto
GIS, Mapping, and Spatial Analysis
Skills you'll gain: Spatial Analysis, Geographic Information Systems, ArcGIS, Geospatial Information and Technology, Spatial Data Analysis, GIS Software, Geospatial Mapping, Data Visualization, Data Mapping, Typography, Interactive Data Visualization, Query Languages, Data Synthesis, Data Compilation, Data Processing, Quantitative Research, Design, Data Manipulation, Data Literacy, Image Analysis
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
3K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Toronto
Introduction to GIS Mapping
Skills you'll gain: ArcGIS, Geospatial Information and Technology, Geographic Information Systems, Geospatial Mapping, GIS Software, Spatial Analysis, Data Mapping
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
2.3K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Michigan
GIS: Geographic Information Systems for Sustainability
Skills you'll gain: GIS Software, Geographic Information Systems, Spatial Data Analysis, Spatial Analysis, Environmental Monitoring, Geospatial Information and Technology, Geospatial Mapping, Data Visualization, Trend Analysis, Data Storytelling, Data Presentation, Forecasting
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
6 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of Toronto
Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS
Skills you'll gain: Geographic Information Systems, Spatial Data Analysis, GIS Software, Spatial Analysis, Query Languages, Image Analysis, Data Integration, Data Manipulation, Data Processing
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
619 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

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Status: Preview
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Geographical Information Systems - Part 1
Skills you'll gain: Geographic Information Systems, Data Capture, Geospatial Mapping, NoSQL, Relational Databases, Spatial Analysis, SQL, Databases, Metadata Management, Data Manipulation, Data Storage, Data Modeling
3.5
Rating, 3.5 out of 5 stars
95 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
IBM
Generative AI: Introduction and Applications
Skills you'll gain: Generative AI, ChatGPT, Prompt Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Large Language Modeling, Content Creation, Virtual Environment, Image Analysis
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
3K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of Toronto
GIS Data Acquisition and Map Design
Skills you'll gain: Geographic Information Systems, Geospatial Mapping, Data Visualization, Data Mapping, Typography, Spatial Data Analysis, Quantitative Research, Design, Data Literacy, Spatial Analysis, Metadata Management, Design Elements And Principles, Data Manipulation
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
710 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Toronto
GIS, Mapping, and Spatial Analysis Capstone
Skills you'll gain: Spatial Analysis, Geographic Information Systems, Geospatial Mapping, ArcGIS, Data Visualization, Interactive Data Visualization, Data Synthesis, Data Compilation, Data Processing, Data Manipulation, Data Mapping, Data Storytelling, Data Integration, Graphic and Visual Design, Data Management, Design Elements And Principles, Metadata Management
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
312 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Google Cloud
Getting Started with BigQuery GIS for Data Analysts
Skills you'll gain: Spatial Data Analysis, Geographic Information Systems, Geospatial Information and Technology, Geospatial Mapping, Data Analysis, Big Data, Data Visualization, Analytics, Google Cloud Platform, Network Analysis, Cloud Management, Data Access, Query Languages
4.3
Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
15 reviews
Beginner · Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Status: Free Trial
University of Michigan
Green Skills for a Sustainable and Just Future
Skills you'll gain: GIS Software, Geographic Information Systems, Spatial Data Analysis, Spatial Analysis, Environmental Monitoring, Social Justice, Geospatial Information and Technology, Environmental Regulations, Environmental Policy, Sustainability Reporting, Environmental Issue, Environmental Resource Management, Organizational Change, Leadership Development, Health Equity, Organizational Strategy, Leadership, Collaboration, Financial Analysis, Critical Thinking
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
24 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months