Map Academy: taking QGIS to the next level from Udemy

Welcome to this intermediate-level Map Academy course. This course is for existing QGIS users who already have a good basic understanding of the software and are now ready to take their skills to the next level. If you've already done my Map Academy: get mapping quickly, with QGIS course on here, this is the natural next step. There are more than 90 videos in this next level course, split into the following 8 sections:

Introduction
Writing expressions in QGIS (e.g. to filter layers, style data, or select features + more)
Creating data in QGIS (e.g. using the Research Tools in QGIS, by creating new data, or through advanced digitizing)
The QGIS Processing Toolbox (how it works, what tools there are, how to use Batch Processing + more)
Map design in QGIS (more in-depth instruction on cartographic approaches and design elements)
Automated mapping with QGIS Atlas (this is an absolutely amazing part of QGIS - so powerful, and quick. )
Tips and tricks in QGIS (e.g. tips for working more efficiently, and we'll also learn geometry generator expressions)
Final words (want to see something else on the course? got a specific request? just let me know. )

You can choose which order to do things in, or you can follow each section through in order - it's 100% up to you and designed so that you can dip and and out to get what you need, in short, clear videos with all data provided for you.

I'll take you step-by-step through all of the above, and all data is provided for you. My Udemy courses have learners in more than 160 countries across the world and I'm delighted to be able to bring you this next level QGIS course. With this second Map Academy course, I'm on a mission to help people take a big leap forward with what they can do with QGIS and give them the confidence to use these skills at work in a professional setting, or perhaps in a course of study at university.

By the end of the course, you will be well on your way to becoming a QGIS expert.

I look forward to seeing you on the course.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to the course

Welcome to Map Academy 2

Things you'll learn during this course

My QGIS setup during this course

Data source for the US states information: https://github.com/CivilServiceUSA/us-states

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Teaches advanced digitizing techniques, which are essential for creating and editing spatial data with precision and accuracy

Explores the QGIS Processing Toolbox, which allows users to automate complex geospatial tasks and workflows

Covers automated mapping with QGIS Atlas, a powerful tool for creating map series and reports efficiently

Includes tips and tricks for efficient QGIS usage, such as geometry generator expressions and scale-dependent visibility

Requires learners to have prior experience with QGIS, which may exclude beginners without introductory knowledge

Develops skills in writing expressions in QGIS, which are useful for filtering, styling, and selecting features based on attributes

Reviews summary

Advanced qgis skills for professionals

Learners say this course is a highly effective next step for those with basic QGIS knowledge, successfully helping them take their skills to the next level for professional application. Students frequently highlight the clear explanations and practical, real-world examples provided by the instructor. The curriculum effectively covers advanced topics including QGIS Atlas, expressions, and the Processing Toolbox. The course provides all necessary data and features short, digestible videos. While well-structured and easy to follow, it is noted that the course truly requires the prerequisite basic QGIS understanding as outlined in the description.

Provides useful, hands-on examples.

"Great practical examples that I can apply directly to my projects at work."

"The hands-on approach with provided data makes learning very effective."

"Liked the workflow examples shown using the Processing Toolbox."

"Creating the US county choropleth map was a good practical exercise."

Deep dive into QGIS Atlas, expressions, etc.

"The section on QGIS Atlas was particularly useful and powerful, showcasing its automation capabilities."

"Gained significant insight into expressions and how to use them effectively for filtering and styling."

"The Processing Toolbox was demystified, providing many useful workflows."

"Geometry generator expressions section was a great bonus."

Instructor explains complex topics clearly.

"The instructor explains everything very clearly and logically, making complex topics easy to follow."

"Videos are short and focused, making it easy to follow along and grasp concepts quickly."

"Excellent instructor, very clear and concise in delivery and explanations."

"Highly recommend this course for the instructor's teaching style."

Helps elevate QGIS use for work and projects.

"This course is a big step forward in understanding advanced QGIS techniques for professional use."

"Excellent course for taking your QGIS skills to the next level after mastering the basics."

"It helped me build confidence to apply advanced QGIS features in my projects."

"If you know the basics, this is the perfect course to get really good with QGIS."

Not for absolute beginners; prior knowledge needed.

"Definitely need to have a good grasp of QGIS fundamentals before starting this course."

"As advertised, this is not for beginners. You need to know your way around QGIS already."

"This course assumes you are already familiar with the basic QGIS interface and functions."

"I struggled initially as my basic QGIS skills weren't strong enough, but that's on me."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Map Academy: taking QGIS to the next level with these activities:

Review Basic GIS Concepts

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Reinforce foundational GIS knowledge to better understand advanced QGIS functionalities.

Browse courses on Geographic Information Systems

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Review the definition of GIS and its components.
Study different types of spatial data (vector, raster).
Practice basic map reading and interpretation skills.

Read 'QGIS Map Design' by Anita Graser

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Enhance map design skills by studying a dedicated resource on cartographic principles within QGIS.

View Geocomputation with Python (Chapman & Hall/CRC... on Amazon

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Read the chapters related to color, typography, and layout.
Experiment with the techniques described in QGIS.
Analyze well-designed maps and identify the design principles used.

Expression Practice

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Solidify understanding of QGIS expressions through targeted practice exercises.

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Create expressions to filter data based on different criteria.
Write expressions to dynamically style map features.
Calculate new fields using expressions.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Read 'Mastering QGIS' by Kurt Menke

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Expand knowledge of advanced QGIS features and workflows by studying a comprehensive guide.

View Mastering QGIS on Amazon

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Read the chapters related to spatial analysis and geoprocessing.
Experiment with the scripting examples provided in the book.
Apply the techniques learned to solve real-world GIS problems.

Create a QGIS Atlas Tutorial

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Deepen understanding of QGIS Atlas by creating a tutorial for others.

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Choose a suitable dataset for demonstrating QGIS Atlas.
Record a video tutorial explaining the steps to create an Atlas.
Share the tutorial on a GIS forum or social media.

Automated Map Generation Project

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Apply QGIS Atlas skills to automate the creation of a series of maps for a specific region or theme.

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Automate map creation using QGIS Atlas.
Select a region or theme for the map series.
Design a map template in QGIS.
Export the map series to PDF or PNG.

Contribute to QGIS Documentation

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Improve understanding of QGIS by contributing to its documentation.

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Identify areas in the QGIS documentation that need improvement.
Submit a pull request with the proposed changes.
Respond to feedback from the QGIS community.

Career center

Learners who complete Map Academy: taking QGIS to the next level will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

GIS Technician

A GIS Technician works with Geographic Information Systems to collect, manage, and analyze spatial data. This can include digitizing maps, creating and maintaining databases, and performing basic spatial analysis tasks. This course helps build a strong foundation in QGIS, a leading GIS software. The modules on creating data, using the Processing Toolbox, and automating mapping are directly applicable to the day-to-day tasks of a GIS Technician. This course provides a path to gain practical skills and become proficient in QGIS. A would-be GIS Technician should take this course.

See salaries and explore the career path for GIS Technician

Cartographer

Cartographers are responsible for designing and creating maps, charts, and other visual representations of geographic data. This often involves selecting the appropriate data, choosing effective symbols and colors, and ensuring the final product is accurate and informative. This course specifically explores Map Design in QGIS, providing instruction on cartographic approaches and design elements. The module on Automated Mapping with QGIS Atlas is particularly relevant, as it enables cartographers to quickly produce multiple maps with consistent styling. A cartographer should take this course to improve their skills.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cartographer

Geospatial Analyst

A Geospatial Analyst interprets and analyzes geographic data to provide insights and solutions for various applications. This role often involves using Geographic Information Systems to create maps, conduct spatial analysis, and manage geospatial databases. The hands-on approach to QGIS in this course directly translates to the practical skills needed for this role. With modules on writing expressions, creating data, and advanced digitizing, this course provides the tools to excel as a Geospatial Analyst. The course's emphasis on automated mapping with QGIS Atlas, and tips for efficient work makes it a solid choice for anyone wanting to enter this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geospatial Analyst

Location Analyst

Location Analysts leverage geographical data and analytical techniques to provide insights for business decisions. This includes selecting optimal sites, understanding customer distribution, and optimizing logistics. The QGIS skills in this course are directly applicable to this role. Specifically, the course covers writing expressions, creating data, and advanced digitizing. An analyst is more effective by writing expressions, creating data, and using advanced digitizing. The course's automated mapping further reinforces its relevance for anyone moving into location analysis. A location analyst should take this course.

See salaries and explore the career path for Location Analyst

Remote Sensing Analyst

Remote Sensing Analysts process and interpret imagery collected from satellites and aircraft to extract information about the Earth's surface. This often involves using GIS software to analyze the data and create maps or reports. The QGIS skills taught in this course are highly valuable for remote sensing analysis. In particular, the course's modules on writing expressions, using the Processing Toolbox, and map design can be applied to enhance the visualization and understanding of remote sensing data. The final words section of the course also takes requests, which may be useful to this role. A remote sensing analyst should take this course.

See salaries and explore the career path for Remote Sensing Analyst

GIS Manager

A GIS Manager oversees the development, implementation, and maintenance of GIS systems within an organization. This role requires strong technical skills, as well as project management and leadership abilities. The in-depth QGIS knowledge gained from this course is highly valuable for a GIS Manager. The course’s focus on automated mapping with QGIS Atlas, and tips for efficient work, enables a GIS Manager to optimize workflows and improve productivity. A GIS manager desiring to improve their abilities should take this course.

See salaries and explore the career path for GIS Manager

Environmental Consultant

Environmental Consultants assess environmental impacts, develop remediation plans, and advise clients on environmental regulations. Analyzing geographic data, creating maps, and using GIS to model environmental processes form part of the job. The QGIS skills covered in this course are relevant to environmental consulting, particularly the modules on creating data, the Processing Toolbox, and map design. The environmental consultant will use this course to improve their capabilities in QGIS.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Consultant

Archaeologist

Archaeologists study past human societies by excavating and analyzing material remains. GIS software is used to map archaeological sites, analyze spatial patterns, and model past landscapes. This course in QGIS may be useful, as it helps to develop skills that apply to archaeological research. The modules on creating data, using the Processing Toolbox, and map design can be used to enhance the visualization and analysis of archaeological data. The archaeologist can take this course to improve their skills.

See salaries and explore the career path for Archaeologist

Urban Planner

Urban Planners develop plans and strategies for the growth and development of cities and towns. This requires analyzing data on population, land use, and transportation, and using GIS software to visualize and model different scenarios. This course may be useful, as the QGIS skills covered in this course can be applied to create maps and perform spatial analysis for urban planning projects. The modules on creating data, using the Processing Toolbox, and map design are particularly relevant. The urban planner should take this course to gain skills in spatial analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Conservation Officer

Conservation Officers work to protect natural resources and enforce environmental regulations. This role often involves mapping and analyzing habitat, monitoring wildlife populations, and using GIS to support conservation planning. This course may be helpful in developing proficiency in QGIS. Modules on creating data, the QGIS Processing Toolbox, and map design can be used to support work as a Conservation Officer. A conservation officer should take this course to enhance their GIS skills.

See salaries and explore the career path for Conservation Officer

Geologist

Geologists study the Earth's structure, composition, and processes. GIS software is often used to create geological maps, analyze spatial data, and model geological phenomena. This course may be useful, as the QGIS skills covered can be applied to geological mapping and analysis. The modules on writing expressions, creating data, and the Processing Toolbox are particularly relevant. A would-be geologist should take this course to improve their spatial analysis skills.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geologist

Emergency Management Specialist

Emergency Management Specialists prepare for and respond to natural disasters and other emergencies. GIS tools are increasingly critical for assessing risk, planning evacuation routes, and coordinating response efforts. This course may be useful, as the QGIS skills covered are applicable to emergency management. The modules on creating data, using the Processing Toolbox, and automated mapping with QGIS Atlas can be used to develop effective emergency response plans. An emergency management specialist can take this course.

See salaries and explore the career path for Emergency Management Specialist

Surveyor

Surveyors measure and map land features to establish property boundaries, plan construction projects, and create topographic maps. While traditional surveying involves field work, GIS software is increasingly used to process and analyze survey data. This course on QGIS provides valuable skills for surveyors, specifically, using the Processing Toolbox, automated mapping with QGIS Atlas, and tips for efficient workflows. This course provides a practical approach to learning QGIS that may be useful when combined with surveying expertise.

See salaries and explore the career path for Surveyor

Real Estate Analyst

Real Estate Analysts evaluate property values, analyze market trends, and provide investment recommendations. GIS software is used to visualize property data, analyze neighborhood characteristics, and assess the impact of location on property values. The QGIS skills covered in this course may be useful, particularly those related to creating data, using the Processing Toolbox, and map design. A real estate analyst should take this course.

See salaries and explore the career path for Real Estate Analyst

Data Scientist

Data Scientists analyze large datasets to identify trends, patterns, and insights. While data science often involves statistical analysis and machine learning, GIS skills can be valuable to visualize and analyze spatial data. This course helps to develop skills that can be applied to spatial data analysis projects. The modules on writing expressions, creating data, and the Processing Toolbox in QGIS can be used to prepare, analyze, and visualize spatial data as a Data Scientist. A data scientist looking to broaden their capabilities in QGIS should take this course.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Map Academy: taking QGIS to the next level.

Geocomputation with Python

Save

Provides a comprehensive guide to map design principles within QGIS. It covers topics such as color theory, typography, and visual hierarchy, all crucial for creating effective and visually appealing maps. It is particularly useful for the 'Map design in QGIS' section of the course, offering practical examples and workflows. This book expands on the course material by providing more in-depth explanations and advanced techniques.

Geocomputation with Python (Chapman & Hall/CRC The...

Kindle Edition

$$$

Mastering QGIS

Save

Comprehensive guide to advanced QGIS functionalities, covering topics such as spatial analysis, geoprocessing, and scripting. It is particularly useful for users who want to go beyond the basics and explore the full potential of QGIS. It provides in-depth explanations and practical examples, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced users. This book adds breadth to the course by covering a wider range of advanced topics.

Mastering QGIS

Kindle Edition

Map Academy

taking QGIS to the next level

What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

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Reviews summary

Advanced qgis skills for professionals

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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