N.C. A&T Online Undergraduate Geomatics Program Ranked Among Top Five Nationwide

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (March 30, 2020) – The online Bachelor of Science in Geomatics program at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University has been ranked No. 3 in best value, according to Guide to Online Schools’ 2020 Best Online GIS Degrees.

Geomatics studies the acquisition and analysis of precise measurements to determine locations on the earth’s surface. The data come from multiple sources including earth-orbiting satellites, air- and sea-borne sensors and ground-based instruments.

The online program, established in 2006, is housed under the Department of Built Environment in the College of Science and Technology, and is the only four-year program in geomatics in North Carolina. 

Thirty states require a bachelor’s degree for licensure in this field and many students have only obtained either an associate’s degree or non-related bachelor’s degree before entering the program. Upon graduation, they are equipped to sit for multiple licensure examinations across the country.

“This recognition acknowledges the needs of our primary demographic of non-traditional working professionals are being met,” said Peggy Fersner, program coordinator and lecturer. “The companies that employ our students see how it benefits their work and considers the ability to be licensed in multiple states as a valuable asset.”  

Approximately 95 percent of the program’s students are non-traditional and taking courses online while working as full-time employees. 

Guide to Online Schools ranked the programs by comparing annual tuition rates and mid-career salaries alumni reported via PayScale. The online program at N.C. A&T costs approximately $17,000 with a reported median salary of $82,000.

Several popular career options include geographic information systems analysts, aerial surveyor, boundary surveyor and surveying and mapping manager.

The geomatics program is accredited by the Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission of Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.