Simon Fraser University, located in Vancouver, BC is a member of the UniGIS consortium, which encompasses 14 countries and about 20 universities around the world cooperating in the design and delivery in distance learning in GIS. The programs focus on the design and implementation of GIS in real world situations.

SFU's program consists of 12 courses, each requiring 70-85 hours of study over a two month period. It is designed to be completed in approximately two years, with the possibility of continuing on to a Master's degree. Each course consists of study materials that are mailed to students, combined with collaborative discussions, self-assessed exercises, hands-on assignments and an intensive face-to-face seminar. All components, except for the study materials and seminar are conducted electronically.

Admission to the certificate program is based on an assessment of academic qualifications, work experience and commitment to the field. Preferred candidates will have a degree from a recognized university or professional institution as well as experience working in GIS or a related field. Candidates with substantial practical experience who do not have a degree will be evaluated on the basis of their experience and commitment. Students are admitted for either a March or September start date. Tuition fees are $8000 Canadian or $6000 US.

The majority of students in SFU's program participate from across North America and represent a variety of sectors including forestry, mining, agriculture, communication, real estate, engineering, tourism, government and education. Most have extensive experience in GIS and related fields. The first cohort of students will graduate this year.

The emphasis on collaborative learning is a significant benefit to distance students who benefit from the interactions with a wide range of other GIS professionals. "GIS is a vast discipline, and the insight of people from a broad spectrum of it, leads to a very rich learning environment" (Geary, et al, 1999, p. 3). In addition, many professionals may be the only GIS employee in an organization and this environment allows them to interact with other professionals in the field.

For further information on the Certificate Program offered by Simon Fraser University, call (604) 291-5095 or check out the website at www.sfu.ca/gis/unigis/unigis.htm. Further information on the UniGIS consortium is available at www.unigis.org.

References
Geary, W., Berdusco, B., Moore, J.P., Parkinson, B. & Gibbens, D. (1999). GIS and distance education: The UniGIS experience. Paper presented at the GIS '99 Conference, Vancouver, BC.