James Madison University (JMU) has achieved reaccreditation of its Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) Certificate Program by the United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF). The reaccreditation extends its recognition through April 2029. This reaccreditation underscores JMU’s commitment to providing high-quality education in the field of geospatial intelligence. 

Dr. Philip M. Baxter, Assistant Professor in the Intelligence Analysis Program, Director of JMU’s Open-Source Analytics Lab, and certificate program manager, said:

“The reaccreditation of our program by USGIF reflects our deep commitment to advancing geospatial intelligence education. The USGIF Certificate not only ensures that our students are prepared to meet the evolving demands of the GEOINT community, but also opens pathways for professional opportunities, empowering them to make meaningful contributions across government, industry, and academia.”

The GEOINT Certificate Program at JMU is a collaborative effort between the Geographic Science and Intelligence Analysis Programs within the School of Integrated Sciences. It is designed to equip students with essential knowledge and skills applicable to various geospatial intelligence scenarios. Later, benefiting those employed by federal agencies, the corporate sector, or individuals entering the field. 

To qualify for the certificate, students must maintain a cumulative average of “B” across all core courses and achieve a minimum grade of “C” in each. Additionally, students must submit a portfolio demonstrating their competencies in key areas. These areas include GIS and Analysis Tools, Remote Sensing and Imagery Analysis, Geospatial Data Management, and Data Visualization. This portfolio serves as a valuable component for internship or job applications.  

The program’s curriculum includes Cartography and GIS, Earth Observation and GPS,  and Intermediate Geographic Information Systems. It also includes Principles of Remote Sensing, Introduction to National Security Intelligence, and Selected Topics in Intelligence Analysis. These courses aim to ensure that students can effectively communicate geospatial intelligence concepts, identify data sources, apply appropriate research methods, and communicate analysis results effectively.  

USGIF’s accreditation program recognizes academic institutions that meet or exceed standards for educational quality in geospatial intelligence. By maintaining this accreditation, JMU continues to demonstrate its dedication to preparing students for careers in the geospatial intelligence profession.  

For more information about JMU’s GEOINT Certificate Program, please visit their official page.