This course provides the student with the conceptual tools required for intelligent and critical use, interpretation, and analysis of maps. In addition, the course furnishes the student with an introduction to and overview of the mapping sciences. Students learn the concepts, methods, and techniques common to the several branches of the mapping sciences and are introduced to cartography, satellite remote sensing, computer-assisted cartography, and geographic information systems. This course is targeted toward graduate students and serves as a prerequisite for Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems or another program elective.