GIS Mapping and Spatial Analysis using ArcGIS Course

Introduction

The GIS Mapping and Spatial Analysis using ArcGIS Course is designed to provide participants with in-depth, hands-on training in the use of ArcGIS the world’s leading GIS software for spatial data visualization, mapping, and analysis. Whether working in urban planning, environmental monitoring, public health, disaster management, or natural resource governance, this course equips learners with the skills to apply GIS in meaningful and impactful ways.

Participants will begin by building a strong foundation in GIS concepts, data types, and the ArcGIS interface. They will learn how to collect, clean, and manage spatial data, create high-quality thematic maps, and conduct a wide range of spatial analyses from proximity and overlay analyses to more advanced raster and surface modeling techniques. Real-world examples and case studies will be used to demonstrate the practical applications of GIS in diverse contexts.

The course also introduces participants to the use of ArcGIS Online and Story Maps for sharing spatial data through interactive web-based platforms, enabling them to communicate findings effectively to stakeholders and the public. Participants will further explore tools such as ModelBuilder and geoprocessing functions to streamline workflows and automate repetitive tasks. Those interested in expanding their technical capacity will also be exposed to Python scripting with ArcPy for more advanced operations.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to design, implement, and present their own GIS projects using ArcGIS, grounded in both technical competence and problem-solving strategies. Whether beginners or intermediate users, participants will leave with practical skills, confidence, and a toolkit to apply GIS and spatial analysis in their professional roles and research pursuits.

Who Should Attend?

This course is suitable to:

·       GIS analysts, technicians, and spatial data managers seeking to strengthen their ArcGIS proficiency

·       Urban and regional planners who use spatial tools for land use planning and infrastructure development

·       Environmental scientists and natural resource managers working on mapping, monitoring, and conservation projects

·       Disaster risk reduction and emergency response personnel who need to analyze hazard, exposure, and vulnerability data

·       Public health professionals and epidemiologists using GIS for disease mapping and health services planning

·       Agricultural and forestry experts engaged in land suitability analysis and crop monitoring

·       NGO and development agency staff working in WASH, humanitarian response, or spatial planning

·       Data analysts and IT professionals interested in incorporating location intelligence into data systems

Duration

10 days

Course Objectives

By the end of the course, the participant should be able to:

·       Understand the fundamental concepts of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and how they apply across different sectors and disciplines.

·       Navigate the ArcGIS software suite effectively, including ArcMap, ArcCatalog, and ArcToolbox, as well as ArcGIS Pro for modern workflows.

·       Collect, import, and manage spatial and attribute data, including shapefiles, satellite imagery, tabular data, and GPS-based field data.

·       Create and design professional-quality thematic maps, using symbology, labels, legends, and other cartographic elements to enhance data visualization.

·       Perform attribute and spatial queries to extract and analyze information from geospatial datasets.

·       Apply key spatial analysis techniques, such as buffering, overlay, intersection, and proximity analysis to solve real-world location-based problems.

·       Conduct raster-based analysis and terrain modeling, including slope, aspect, hillshade, and surface analysis using Digital Elevation Models (DEMs).

·       Use geocoding and network analysis tools for mapping addresses, planning routes, and analyzing service areas.

·       Automate repetitive GIS tasks using ModelBuilder and introduce scripting with Python (ArcPy) for advanced geoprocessing.

·       Publish interactive maps and dashboards using ArcGIS Online and Story Maps for enhanced data sharing and communication with stakeholders.

·       Design and implement practical GIS projects, applying learned techniques to address challenges in fields such as urban planning, natural resources, public health, agriculture, or disaster management.

Course outline

Module 1: Introduction to GIS and ArcGIS Environment

• Overview of Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
• Applications of GIS in various sectors
• ArcGIS Desktop interface: ArcMap, ArcCatalog, ArcToolbox
• Understanding ArcGIS Pro vs ArcMap
• Spatial data models: vector and raster

Module 2: Spatial Data Acquisition and Management

• GIS data formats and sources (Shapefiles, Geodatabases, CSV, KML)
• Coordinate systems, map projections, and spatial referencing
• Creating, editing, and managing spatial data
• Using GPS and mobile tools to collect spatial data
• Importing and georeferencing data in ArcGIS

Module 3: Cartographic Mapping and Visualization

• Creating thematic maps (e.g., choropleth, proportional symbol)
• Map layout design and customization
• Labeling and symbology techniques
• Map annotation and legend configuration
• Exporting high-quality maps for reports and presentations

Module 4: Attribute Data and Table Operations

• Joining and relating tables to spatial data
• Field calculations and data editing
• Querying data using attribute and location-based queries
• Data classification and statistical summaries
• Filtering and selecting spatial features

Module 5: Spatial Analysis Techniques

• Buffering and proximity analysis
• Overlay analysis (Intersect, Union, Clip, Erase)
• Spatial join and dissolve operations
• Hotspot and density mapping
• Suitability and multi-criteria analysis

Module 6: Raster Data and Surface Analysis

• Introduction to raster datasets (DEM, satellite imagery)
• Hillshade, slope, and contour generation
• Reclassification and raster calculator operations
• Viewshed and visibility analysis
• Surface modeling and terrain analysis

Module 7: Geocoding and Network Analysis

• Address geocoding using ArcGIS tools
• Creating and editing network datasets
• Route planning and service area analysis
• Accessibility and travel time analysis
• Applications in logistics and urban planning

Module 8: Data Automation and Geoprocessing

• Using ModelBuilder for workflow automation
• Introduction to Python scripting with ArcPy (optional)
• Batch processing and tool customization
• Building custom geoprocessing models

Module 9: Introduction to ArcGIS Online and Web Mapping

• Publishing maps to ArcGIS Online
• Creating web maps and apps using ArcGIS Web AppBuilder
• Sharing maps and data with stakeholders
• Creating dashboards for live data visualization
• Using Story Maps for project communication

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: training@upskilldevelopment.com Tel: +254 721 331 808

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Upskill Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Upskill certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: training@upskilldevelopment.com, +254 721 331 808

Terms of Payment

Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties payment of the course fee should be done 3 working days before commencement of the training so as to enable us to prepare better