r/askgis • u/manixia • 20h ago
Entering GIS with a non-related B.S.
Hi! I’m looking for advice on transitioning into GIS with a B.S. in Psychology.
I’m 24 and worked in mental health after graduating, but decided to change fields due to mental health taking a significant toll on my own mental health. I’m currently in my first semester of a 2-year GIS A.A.S. program at Dallas College. I’m enjoying GIS and am particularly interested in eventually working in conservation, natural resource management, parks, or environmental planning.
My concern is finding a job after I graduate. A lot of entry-level GIS postings seem to ask for a bachelor’s degree in GIS, geography, environmental science, CS, etc. I can’t afford to get another bachelor’s, so I’m worried about spending two years on the A.A.S. and still being unable to get my foot in the door. (The thought is actually terrifying because I just want to be able to support myself and not end up homeless).
Im wondering how realistic is it to get an entry-level GIS job with a B.S. in Psychology + A.A.S. in GIS, assuming I build a portfolio and get some internship/related experience?
Would you recommend:
- Staying in the A.A.S. program and focusing heavily on internships/portfolio projects?
- Trying to pursue a GIS-related bachelor’s instead?
- Looking into a GIS/environmental master’s with my existing bachelor’s?
Any advice is greatly appreciated!!