A.S. in Land Surveying and Geomatics

Learning Outcomes

• Land surveying fundamentals and boundary analysis
• Mapping, GIS, and geospatial data management
• Construction, mine, and geodetic surveying
• GPS and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)
• Least squares adjustment and control networks
• Photogrammetry and remote sensing
• Legal descriptions and land surveying law
• The United States Public Land Survey System (PLSS)

You’ll learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret spatial data using professional surveying tools and techniques while producing accurate maps, plots, and plans used in industry.

Hands-On Tools & Software

Students gain experience with industry-standard equipment and software used by professional surveyors, including:

• Total stations and precision levels
• Satellite imagery and GNSS data
• Carlson Survey
• Trimble Business Center
• ArcInfo (GIS)
• Mathcad

These tools are used throughout the program to complete engineering-related surveying and geomatics projects involving boundary surveys, topography, control networks, and more.

Field Experience & Program Mentors

To support hands-on learning, the program partners with licensed land surveying and geomatics professionals who serve as mentors. These mentors assist qualified students in completing the required laboratory fieldwork in classical surveying fundamentals.

• Mentors are licensed in the U.S. and qualifying jurisdictions
• Field labs are required for students pursuing a four-year baccalaureate degree
• Laboratory and field coursework may be completed through approved mentors or through field courses offered at Great Basin College

For details about mentoring, labs, or field course options, students should contact the Land Surveying & Geomatics Program Advisor.

Capstone Experience

The Land Surveying & Geomatics Capstone is the culminating course of the program. In this course, students apply program knowledge to a comprehensive surveying project that may include areas such as:

• Boundary and ALTA/ACSM surveys
• Construction and as-built surveys
• Topographic and site plan surveys
• Hydrographic and bathymetric surveys
• Geodetic and deformation surveys
• Wetland delineation and flood elevation surveys
• Aerial, underground, and subsurface surveys

This capstone showcases your technical skills, problem-solving ability, and readiness for professional practice.

Student Organizations & Professional Engagement

Silver State Land Surveying & Geomatics - NSPS-NALS Student Chapter

Students are encouraged to get involved in the Silver State Land Surveying & Geomatics Student Chapter, open to all Great Basin College students. Benefits include:

• Networking with surveying professionals
• Participation in statewide and national events
• Community and campus service projects
• Fundraising and social activities

This organization provides valuable professional connections and enhances the student experience beyond the classroom.

Accreditation & Licensure

The Land Surveying & Geomatics baccalaureate program meets the educational requirements for licensure in Nevada and many other states.

• Licensure requirements vary by state
• Students are responsible for verifying requirements with their state licensing board
• The program may not fulfill all licensure requirements in every jurisdiction

Prospective students are encouraged to research licensure requirements early in their academic planning.

Career Pathways

Surveying is both an art and a science, focused on measuring and mapping the physical features of the Earth. Graduates pursue careers in private industry and public agencies, including civil engineering firms, mining operations, resource management, and government agencies.

Potential career paths include:

• Construction or Boundary Surveyor
• City or Regional Planner
• Mining Surveyor
• Department of Transportation Surveyor
• Wetlands or Floodplain Specialist
• Geospatial Analyst or GIS Specialist
• Certified Photogrammetrist or Geodesist
• Advanced Imaging and Mapping Specialist
• CAD Professional
• Surveyor with the U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management
• Analyst with the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency
• Onshore or Offshore Oil & Gas Surveyor

Bachelor's Program

The Bachelor's of Applied Science (B.A.S.) in Online Land Surveying / Geomatics was co-developed by Great Basin College (GBC) and the Nevada Association of Land Surveyor’s Advisory Committee. The land surveying/ geomatics program was implemented in response to the growing need for licensed professional surveyors in Nevada to capture, store, process, and manage spatial data. The four-year bachelor’s degree program in land surveying/geomatics has served Nevada students and distance learners from around the country effectively since its inception in 2005. The land surveying/geomatics program model is ideally structured for students who are employed (or seeking employment) in a surveying or geospatial related profession that require the flexibility and accessibility to coursework delivered outside the typical undergraduate learning environment.

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