Remote Sensing

Graduate Certificate

Aerial image of a landscape

Analyze images and other data to solve problems across disciplines

Analyze images and other data to solve problems across disciplines.

Imagery and other data collected by satellites, crewed aircraft, and uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) are increasingly important for studying natural systems and human activities across scales, from global change to urban planning to agricultural management. Studying remote sensing allows you to develop a foundation in digital image processing to pursue a career in earth observation.

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Aerial image of a landscape

This program is currently offered in
the following locations:

Online

What is Remote Sensing?

Remote sensing data provides insights on systems and locations for applications ranging from meteorology and environmental science to crisis prevention due to natural disasters. The remote sensing field lends itself to solving unique challenges due to the broad quantity of data available for analysis from systems such as satellite imaging, aerial photography and even ground-based mobile and stationary sensors.

Two students work on laptops

 

Our faculty have the expertise to inform students of theoretical information and prompt them to make real-life applications.

Paddington Hodza is a Senior Research Scientist who researches a range of topics including UAS, positivity GIS and immersive geo-visualization.

Dr. Ramesh Sivanpillai specializes in remote sensing, with expertise in research, teaching, and service and outreach in this field.

Meet our faculty

Remote sensing professor looking at papers

 

 

 

Online Learning at UW

The University of Wyoming offers a comprehensive selection of fully-online and hybrid programs, in addition to the online remote sensing graduate certificate. These online programs are on par with their in-person counterparts in terms of learning standards and accreditation. Recognizing the distinct requirements of online learners, we furnish a range of academic and student resources designed to support your success both during your time at UW and in your post-graduation journey.

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UW Online

Learn more about the University of Wyoming's online programming!

Remote Sensing Program Highlights

Learning Resources

Specialized software is used in almost every class to deal with spatial data. Students may access state-of-the-art 3D visualization tools. Hands-on experiences in mapping permit the exploration of areas that would otherwise be inaccessible or dangerous.

 

Students pursuing professional development may receive support from their place of work. Additionally, UW does have connections to scholarships and opportunities that students may be eligible for.

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Studying remote sensing in Wyoming can offer several benefits for students. Wyoming is home to a diverse range of natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, rivers, and grasslands, which provide ideal environments for remote sensing research and exploration. Additionally, Wyoming has a strong job market for remote sensing professionals, particularly in fields such as energy, agriculture and environmental management. 

 

What can you do with a Remote Sensing Graduate Certificate?

Remote sensing scientists analyze images and other data to solve problems across disciplines. Applications like Google Earth and satellite-based maps are familiar to all of us, but they only hint at the utility of remotely sensed data. Expertise in remote sensing can be applied to fields ranging from anthropology to zoology, and trained remote sensing scientists work in academia, private industry, and local, state, and federal agencies.

  • Manufacturer
  • Technical Service Provider
  • Utilities
  • Public Administration
  • Educator 
  • Remote Sensing Analyst
  • Geospatial Analyst
  • GIS Specialist
  • Environmental Scientist
  • Natural Resource Manager
  • Urban and Regional Planner
  • Agriculture Specialist
  • Cartographer or Mapping Technician
  • Remote Sensing Software Developer
  • Remote Sensing Project Manager

Here are a few places where remote sensing alumni have made a difference:

  • State of Wyoming
  • Hager Environmental and Atmospheric Technologies 
  • Air Care Colorado 
  • California Institute of Technology 

Yes, remote sensing can be a very good career, especially if you’re interested in technology, environmental science, geography or data analysis. It plays a critical role in fields like climate science, natural resource management, agriculture, urban planning and national security. As industries increasingly rely on satellite imagery, drones and geospatial data to make informed decisions, demand for remote sensing specialists continues to grow. It’s a career path that combines scientific research, problem-solving and cutting-edge tech—often with opportunities for meaningful, real-world impact.

Yes, remote sensing does require specialized training—but that’s exactly what our certificate program is designed to provide. Whether your background is in environmental science, geography, engineering or a related field, a remote sensing certificate gives you hands-on experience with tools like GIS, satellite imagery and drone data. You’ll learn how to analyze geospatial information and use industry-standard software. A certificate is a great way to build expertise, boost your resume and open doors to careers in natural resources, urban planning, climate science and beyond.

Advance Your Career from Anywhere

Ready to map your future? A remote sensing certificate from UW gives you the skills to track wildfires, floods, agriculture and more—100% online. Apply now and take your career to the next level!