Course Overview
This course in GIS customization introduces the Esri Desktop GIS development environment using Python scripting. Topics include writing Python Scripts, extending the functionality of GIS models, importing external .txt files, creating custom tools and integrating with other development environments.
Prerequisite(s)
Credits
3.0
Registration requirements
Departmental approval is required to register for this course. Departmental approval is required for this course. You will not be able to register without it.
Domestic fees
$863.60
International fees are typically 3.25 times the domestic tuition. Exact cost will be calculated upon completion of registration.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Develop custom labels and field calculations using python.
- Automate existing models by adding python scripting.
- Create custom class and function definitions in python.
- Use existing GIS software components to create a customized set of tools.
- Investigate other development environments used by Desktop GIS software.
Effective as of Fall 2018
Related Programs
ArcGIS 3: Customization and Modelling (GIST 8138) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
- Indicates programs eligible for students to apply for Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
School of Construction and the Environment
- Geographic Information Systems
Advanced Diploma Full-time
- Geographic Information Systems
Advanced Diploma Part-time
- Geographic Information Systems
Bachelor of Technology Full-time/Part-time
Course Offerings
Spring/Summer 2026
Below is one offering of GIST 8138 for the Spring/Summer 2026 term.
CRN 55890
Dates
Apr 09 - Jun 25 Loading
- CRN 55890
- $863.60 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
| Dates | Days | Times | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 09 - Jun 25 | N/A | N/A | Online |
Duration
12 weeks
Instructor
Rob Hewlett
Course outline
Course outline TBD — see Learning Outcomes in the interim.
Important information
- Important course information will be sent to you prior to your course start date. Check your myBCIT email account to access this information.
- Students must be accepted into the GIS program and completed the prerequisites prior to registration of this course. To receive approval, please email your BCIT Student ID to gis@bcit.ca. For more information about online courses at BCIT, please visit: www.bcit.ca/distance/foryou.shtml Students must check your my.bcit.ca e-mail account for start-up instructions sent upon registration of this course. To be successful in our online courses, plan to spend 4-6 hours per course each week on your studies, starting Week 1. Our courses are highly interactive with participation requirements weekly. Most of our online learning courses require a textbook. You can search for your course textbook at : www.bcitbookstore.ca/distance/ If no textbook is listed, course material will be provided via e-mail.
Confirmation
Required
To proceed with registration and add this course to the cart, please confirm:
No approval yet? Request approval Departmental approval is required for this course. You will not be able to register without it.
Status
If you have any questions about this course, please contact us.
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.