Learn how to efficiently manage, query, and analyze spatial data with the PostGIS and PostgreSQL Course at Geo-ICT. This practical, hands-on course introduces you to two of the most widely used open-source technologies in geo-information science: PostgreSQL, a powerful relational database system, and PostGIS, its spatial extension. Whether you work in urban planning, environmental science, or logistics, this course gives you the tools to handle real-world spatial data with confidence.
PostGIS and PostgreSQL
DatabasesDatabases
GIS, PostGIS, and PostgreSQL
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have become essential tools for understanding and working with spatial data. From designing infrastructure to monitoring environmental change, GIS helps professionals analyze relationships, visualize trends, and make better decisions. But behind every insightful map is a reliable spatial database.
PostgreSQL is a leading open-source relational database, and with the PostGIS extension, it becomes a full-featured spatial data powerhouse. Together, these tools offer a flexible and scalable way to store, query, and analyze geographic data—without the licensing costs of proprietary systems. PostGIS supports advanced spatial functions, integration with QGIS, and efficient management of complex geodata, making it a popular choice for professionals in both public and private sectors.
At Geo-ICT, we believe working with GIS isn’t just about creating maps—it’s about unlocking the insights hidden in location-based data. This course helps you do exactly that by teaching you how to use PostgreSQL and PostGIS to build databases, ask spatial questions, and support better decision-making. Whether you’re looking to expand your GIS capabilities or move into a spatial data role, this is the place to start.
What will you learn
You’ll start by learning how PostgreSQL works as a relational database and why it’s an ideal platform for managing both attribute and geographic data. Then you’ll dive into PostGIS, where you’ll explore how to store, analyze, and visualize spatial data efficiently.
Throughout the course, you’ll build your own spatial database from the ground up. You’ll import shapefiles, CSVs, and other geospatial data formats, and learn how to structure and manage your data properly. Using SQL, you’ll perform location-based queries such as proximity searches, containment checks, and spatial joins.
You’ll also learn how to connect your database to QGIS, enabling you to create maps and visualizations from the data you manage. By integrating PostgreSQL, PostGIS, and QGIS, you’ll build a complete, end-to-end GIS workflow—ready to be applied in real-world projects like planning, environmental monitoring, or logistics optimization.
Why choose this course
If you’re ready to advance your skills in spatial data management, this course offers the perfect combination of theory, hands-on experience, and real-world application. Here’s why students choose Geo-ICT:
- Expert instruction: Learn from professionals who apply these tools daily in GIS and spatial database projects.
- Practice-focused learning: Build and use your own working spatial database through guided exercises and challenges.
- Tool proficiency: Gain experience with PostgreSQL, PostGIS, and QGIS—industry-standard open-source technologies.
- Career relevance: These skills are in demand across sectors including government, environmental science, infrastructure, and tech.
Course structure
Day 1
You’ll begin with an overview of PostgreSQL and PostGIS, including how they compare to tools like Oracle Spatial. You’ll set up your own PostgreSQL database, import data (like shapefiles and CSVs), and explore how to manage spatial objects. You’ll also get to know the PostGIS interface and see how it connects with QGIS.
Day 2
You’ll expand your database by adding more spatial layers and start writing spatial queries. Through practical exercises, you’ll learn to filter, join, and present data using SQL and PostGIS functions. This day focuses on building your confidence with spatial queries and real-world analysis.
Day 3
You’ll complete your project database, explore exporting options, and work with ODBC connections. Finally, you’ll use QGIS to create maps and visualize the data you’ve managed and analyzed. By the end of the course, you’ll have a fully functional spatial database that supports your own use case or project goals.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand PostgreSQL database setup, CRUD operations, and complex SQL queries
- Store and manage spatial data using PostGIS, including geometry types and spatial indexing
- Perform spatial analyses such as proximity searches, containment, and intersections
- Integrate your spatial database with QGIS for visualization and spatial reporting
More Information?
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.
Frequently Asked Questions about PostGIS and PostgreSQL
In the PostGIS and PostgreSQL course, you will learn how to set up a PostgreSQL database and store geographical data, covering topics such as using pgAdmin, loading shapefiles and CSV files, and creating spatial queries.
Yes, the course is accessible for beginners, but also provides value for experienced professionals looking to expand their knowledge.
You will learn to perform spatial queries, filter, present, and combine data, which is essential for effective data management.
PostGIS distinguishes itself from other database systems like Oracle Spatial through its open-source nature, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. While Oracle Spatial is a proprietary system, PostGIS is free to use and highly customizable, allowing for more accessible geospatial database management. Additionally, PostGIS integrates seamlessly with other open-source tools like QGIS, making it popular among organizations seeking affordable, scalable, and interoperable solutions for spatial data management.