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Welcome to mapping and GIS (geographic information systems) in the Department of Geography at the University of Kentucky. This repository showcases opportunities and successes that students have at the University learning map making and GIS.
 Lexington is the second largest city in Kentucky and home to the University of Kentucky. This aerial photograph from 1971 shows central campus, the home of UK Geography.

Geography Department’s 75th Anniversary

We are celebrating our 75th Anniversary during the 2018-2019 school year. The Department of Geography was established in 1944 and is “ranked among leading geography graduate programs in the United States.” (Wikipedia)

Stories and maps

Course opportunities

The university offers numerous paths to learn mapping and GIS, from a minor for undergraduates and graduate certificate for those with a bachelor’s degree. The below list isn’t comprehensive but shows many of the opportunities. Examples from GEO 409

Master of Science (MS) and Graduate Certificate in in Digital Mapping

Mapping and GIS - Undergraduate Minor

The College of Arts & Sciences Department of Geography offers a 18 hour (6 course) minor. The following three courses are required and form the foundation of the program’s curriculum:

Link to all available courses in minor


The Department of Geography’s Mapshop provides an opportunity for community and campus organizations to work directly with students, faculty, and cartographic staff in the production of geographic representations. Mapshop is part of the larger University of Kentucky’s New Mappings Collaboratory which is committed to innovations in mapping.


Occasionally we offer one-day instruction in various mapping technologies. Here is a past list of courses taught.

Video on Vimeo

Examples of student work

History of the Geography Department Karl Raitz’s Photography of Kentucky