What are the best GIS courses on Coursera?

Top courses include Fundamentals of GIS from the University of California, Davis , and GIS, Mapping, and Spatial Analysis from the University of Toronto . These programs cover the basics of GIS, spatial data analysis, and real-world applications in fields like urban planning and environmental management.

Can I learn GIS for free on Coursera?

Yes. Many GIS courses offer a free audit option, which allows learners to access video lessons and reading materials at no cost. To complete assignments or earn a certificate, you’ll need to upgrade or apply for financial aid.

What will I learn in a GIS course?

You’ll learn how to collect and analyze spatial data, create maps using GIS software like ArcGIS or QGIS, and apply GIS skills to solve real-world problems. Topics may include cartography , spatial databases, and remote sensing.

Do I need a technical background to start learning GIS?

Not necessarily. Many beginner-level GIS courses on Coursera assume no prior experience and walk you through foundational concepts. If you’re already familiar with data analysis or mapping, more advanced courses can help you deepen your skills.

Can Coursera’s GIS courses help me in my career?

Yes. GIS skills are in demand across industries like urban planning , environmental science , logistics , and public health . Coursera’s GIS courses can help you build job-ready skills, create a professional portfolio, and earn certificates that show your expertise.

Top Gis Courses - Learn Gis Online

Find the Best GIS Course for Your Goals

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Global Impact: Business Ethics
Skills you'll gain: Business Ethics, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Corporate Sustainability, Stakeholder Management, Cultural Sensitivity, Global Marketing, Decision Making, Cultural Diversity, International Relations, Corporate Strategy, Socioeconomics
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
493 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
Generative AI for Data Scientists
Skills you'll gain: Generative AI, Microsoft Copilot, Natural Language Processing, Data Quality, Anomaly Detection, Data Storytelling, Data Ethics, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Interactive Data Visualization, Data Presentation, OpenAI, Data Pipelines, Prompt Engineering, Data Cleansing, Data Visualization Software, Data Synthesis, Data Analysis, Communication, Data Validation, Large Language Modeling
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
46 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Successful Presentation
Skills you'll gain: Public Speaking, Presentations, Verbal Communication Skills, Storytelling, Drive Engagement, Communication, Persuasive Communication, Non-Verbal Communication, Cognitive flexibility, Composure, Adaptability, Creativity
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
4.9K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
KodeKloud
Git for beginners with Hands-on Labs
Skills you'll gain: Git (Version Control System), GitHub, Version Control, Collaborative Software, DevOps, Continuous Integration, File Management, Software Installation
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Johns Hopkins University
Introduction to DevSecOps
Skills you'll gain: DevOps, DevSecOps, CI/CD, GitHub, Continuous Deployment, Continuous Integration, Continuous Delivery, Version Control, Git (Version Control System), Process Improvement, Web Development Tools, Software Development, Information Technology Infrastructure Library, Cross-Functional Collaboration, Automation
4.1
Rating, 4.1 out of 5 stars
18 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Kennesaw State University
AI for Education (Basic)
Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, Generative AI Agents, Generative AI, Data Ethics, Education Software and Technology, ChatGPT, Artificial Intelligence, End User Training and Support, Natural Language Processing
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
11 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Global Strategy I: How The Global Economy Works
Skills you'll gain:
Build toward a degree
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
295 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
LearnKartS
Git Fundamentals
Skills you'll gain: Git (Version Control System), GitHub, Version Control, Software Configuration Management, Software Versioning, Software Development, File Management, Development Environment, Command-Line Interface, Authentications
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
9 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Vanderbilt University
Generative AI for Legal Services Primer
Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, Law Practice Management Software, Generative AI, Legal Writing, Legal Research, Data Ethics, Legal Support, ChatGPT, Artificial Intelligence, Emerging Technologies, Information Privacy
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
47 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
KodeKloud
Git Basics for DevOps
Skills you'll gain: Version Control, Git (Version Control System), GitHub, Collaborative Software, DevOps, Software Development Tools, Linux, Open Source Technology
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
19 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Microsoft
Generative AI for Data Science
Skills you'll gain: Generative AI, Large Language Modeling, Data Ethics, Prompt Engineering, Feature Engineering, Operational Efficiency, Advertising, Marketing, Artificial Intelligence, Application Deployment, Anomaly Detection, Data Synthesis, Information Privacy
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
14 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
The Linux Foundation
Using Git for Distributed Development
Skills you'll gain: Git (Version Control System), Version Control, Open Source Technology, Software Development Tools, Software Versioning, Code Review, Linux
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
586 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks