Total study time: 24 hours
How can you efficiently manage and analyze geospatial data using PostgreSQL and PostGIS? In this hands-on, one-on-one course, you’ll unlock the power of spatial SQL and learn how to perform complex spatial analyses while managing geospatial databases like a pro. With personal guidance and practical assignments, you'll build the skills you need to turn raw data into meaningful insight. Ready to take your GIS expertise to the next level?
FOSS4G (Free and Open Source Software for Geospatial) is a powerful collection of open-source tools built for working with geospatial data. These tools let you collect, manage, analyze, and visualize geographic information—without relying on expensive commercial software. Popular FOSS4G tools include QGIS, GRASS GIS, and PostGIS. Together, they form a versatile and reliable platform for everything from basic mapping to advanced spatial analysis.
PostgreSQL, a trusted open-source relational database, is known for its stability, flexibility, and performance. It’s widely used to manage large volumes of data, including geospatial data. With the PostGIS extension, you can add powerful spatial capabilities to PostgreSQL—making it possible to work with spatial data types like points, lines, and polygons, and to run advanced geospatial queries right within the database.
When used together, FOSS4G tools and PostgreSQL with PostGIS offer a robust, cost-effective solution for GIS professionals who need flexibility, scalability, and precision in their geospatial workflows.
In this blended learning course, you’ll build a solid foundation in open-source geospatial software—focusing on PostgreSQL and PostGIS. It’s designed to help you master spatial databases and analysis through hands-on, practical learning.
You’ll begin with the basics of PostgreSQL 11 and quickly move into using the PostGIS spatial extension. Then, you’ll dive into SQL and spatial SQL to manage raster, vector, and attribute data. As you gain confidence, you’ll apply your skills to real-world GIS scenarios—solving problems and writing powerful queries.
Throughout the course, you’ll work with real datasets from Tompkins County, New York. You’ll also explore how your skills connect with tools like QGIS, GDAL, GeoServer, and Python. This practical, tool-based approach helps you understand how to manage and analyze spatial data across different platforms.
Whether you’re new to spatial databases or building on what you already know, this course gives you the experience to use PostgreSQL and PostGIS effectively. By the end, you’ll be ready to manage spatial data, perform advanced analysis, and support better decision-making with GIS.
Blended learning gives you the best of both worlds—flexible self-paced study combined with expert-led, interactive sessions—so you can build job-ready skills at your own pace, with support when you need it.
To start, we kick off with a live session where you’ll dive right into working with real data. With guidance from experienced GIS professionals, you’ll learn how to install and configure PostgreSQL and PostGIS, run spatial queries, and perform targeted geospatial analyses that support real decision-making.
After that, you’ll move through self-paced modules covering SQL and spatial SQL, geodata management, and query optimization. You’ll learn to manage raster and vector datasets, automate workflows, and perform complex joins and calculations—at a pace that suits you. Each module includes hands-on exercises so you can apply your skills right away.
Then, in a second live session, you’ll put your knowledge into practice by working through realistic GIS case studies. You’ll refine your workflows, troubleshoot common challenges, and receive personalized feedback to improve your approach.
Importantly, the course uses a case-based learning method. You’ll work with real datasets and real-world use cases—giving you experience that reflects what professionals face every day. As a result, the outputs you create won’t just stay in the classroom—they’ll apply directly to real projects in planning, analysis, and spatial data management.
By the end of this course, you won’t just understand PostgreSQL and PostGIS. Instead, you’ll know how to use them confidently and effectively in real GIS projects. You’ll be ready to manage spatial databases, write powerful SQL queries, and solve geospatial challenges with clarity and precision.
After completing this course, you will be able to:
Do you have questions about the course content? Not sure if the course aligns with your learning objectives? Or would you prefer a private session or in-company training? We’re happy to assist—feel free to get in touch.
We aim to make our courses accessible to as many people as possible. If the course fee is a concern, instead of registering directly, you can indicate on the registration form that you’d like to receive a quote tailored to your needs. In many cases, we can offer flexible solutions. For instance, we can adjust the course content for large groups, shorten the course based on existing knowledge, or offer daily rates to suit your requirements.
Yes, you can reach out to the instructor with questions for up to 2 weeks after the course. Since the instructor is likely teaching other courses, we recommend emailing your questions to info@geo-ict.com. We’ll forward your inquiry to the instructor, and you’ll receive a response within 24 hours. After the 2-week period, we recommend using our Personalized Online Support for continued assistance.
Yes, we offer on-site training regularly throughout the Netherlands. Our instructor will bring laptops for the participants, and all you need to do is arrange a suitable room at your location.
Please send your requirements to info@geo-ict.com, and we will provide a customized quote, which will include travel and accommodation costs. Once the quote is confirmed, our course coordinator will reach out to schedule the training days.
After each course, participants receive a link to our evaluation portal where you can share your feedback on what you liked and didn’t like. We strive to provide a great experience for all our participants, but if you have a complaint, please click on ‘Complaints Procedure’ in the portal. This document will guide you through the steps to take. Geo-ICT Training Center, Netherlands, is a member of the Dutch Council for Training and Education (NRTO), ensuring a fair and transparent process.
Courses are typically scheduled according to the Dutch time zone, with sessions running from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. For participants in different time zones, we adjust the course times in consultation with you.