Course Overview
Examines sources of digital mapping data, derived product creation for mapping, and an introduction to cartographic principles. Map composition, typography, thematic mapping and symbolization, colour and pattern are reviewed as part of cartographic principles.
Prerequisite(s)
Credits
3.0
Domestic fees
$863.60 - $881.16 See individual course offerings below for actual costs.
International fees are typically 3.4 times the domestic tuition. Exact cost will be calculated upon completion of registration.
Learning Outcomes
Upon the successful completion of this course the student will be able to:
- Understand the basic principles of photogrammetry and stereo viewing.
- Demonstrate the geometry of a stereo-model.
- Measure elevations and identify objects.
- Process a LiDAR point cloud dataset to produce a digital elevation model and contours.
- Understand the variety of sensors used in point cloud data capture for mapping.
- Understand the problems that can exist in map communication.
- Know when / how to symbolize points, lines and polygons.
- Properly employ colour and pattern in maps.
- Generate an effective single map layout.
- Properly use annotation (typography) in maps and understand the components of typography.
Effective as of Winter 2025
Related Programs
GIS Digital Mapping and Cartography (GIST 8107) 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 8107 for the Spring/Summer 2026 term.
CRN 70320
Dates
Apr 08 - Jun 24 Loading
- CRN 70320
- $863.60 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
| Dates | Days | Times | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 08 - Jun 24 | N/A | N/A | Online |
Duration
12 weeks
Instructor
Josh MacDougall
Course outline
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 prerequisite 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:
Status
If you have any questions about this course, please contact us.
Fall 2026
Below is one offering of GIST 8107 for the Fall 2026 term.
CRN 51817
Dates
Sep 09 - Nov 25 Loading
- CRN 51817
- $881.16 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
| Dates | Days | Times | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 09 - Nov 25 | N/A | N/A | Online |
Duration
12 weeks
Instructor
TBD
Course outline
Course outline TBD — see Learning Outcomes in the interim.
Registration requirements
Departmental approval is required to register for this course offering. You must have approval from the department to register. Students accepted into a program can register directly.
Important information
- Students must be accepted into the GIS program and completed the prerequisite 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 You must have approval from the department to register. Students accepted into a program can register directly.
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.