Crime Mapping, Geographic Information Systems, & Geospatial Analysis

Catalog description

This course introduces geospatial analysis and crime mapping techniques used in intelligence and public safety contexts. Students examine geographic information systems (GIS), spatial data sources, and mapping methodologies to identify patterns, trends, and hotspots. Emphasis is placed on interpreting spatial relationships, producing professional geospatial products, and applying location-based analysis to support decision-making. The course also addresses ethical considerations in geospatial data use and integrates a Christian worldview that affirms stewardship, justice, and responsibility in community safety. These experiences develop practical geospatial competencies essential for intelligence and crime analysis practice. Students incorporate spatiotemporal flow analysis to examine offender movement, repeat locations, and hot spots over time to support tactical deployment decisions. Emphasis is placed on tactical crime analysis applications, including hot-spotting for patrol deployment, problem-location analysis, and map products for operational briefings. Students gain hands-on experience with GIS software to create, edit, and export crime maps suitable for operational and strategic intelligence products.