Introduction to QGIS

Course Overview ¶

This comprehensive introductory course provides participants with a solid foundation in desktop GIS concepts and practices using QGIS. Participants will learn how to create, edit, analyze, and visualize spatial data through hands-on exercises and real-world examples.

The course covers essential GIS workflows including data acquisition, layer management, coordinate reference systems, spatial analysis, and map production. By the end of the course, participants will be confident in using QGIS for their day-to-day mapping and spatial analysis needs.

What You Will Learn ¶

• Installing and navigating the QGIS interface
• Working with vector and raster data formats
• Understanding and managing coordinate reference systems and projections
• Creating and editing spatial data
• Styling and symbolizing maps for effective visualization
• Performing basic spatial analysis and geoprocessing operations
• Using the field calculator and expressions
• Creating print-ready maps with the layout manager
• Installing and using QGIS plugins
• Best practices for data organization and project management

Who Should Attend ¶

This course is ideal for:

• GIS beginners with no prior experience
• Professionals transitioning from proprietary GIS software
• Researchers and academics working with spatial data
• Environmental consultants and urban planners
• NGO staff and government employees
• Anyone who needs to work with geographic data

No prior GIS experience is required, though basic computer literacy is expected.

Prerequisites ¶

• Basic computer skills
• Interest in working with maps and spatial data
• Laptop with QGIS installed (we can help with installation)

Course Materials ¶

All participants receive:

• Comprehensive course workbook
• Sample datasets for exercises
• Quick reference guides
• Certificate of completion
• 30-day post-course email support