Overview of LiDAR

Total study time: 24 hours

How can you unlock the full potential of LiDAR technology for geospatial analysis? In this one-on-one course, you’ll learn how to collect, process, and apply LiDAR data to create highly detailed maps and models. Through personal guidance, practical assignments, and interactive online modules, you’ll build skills you can use immediately—and experience firsthand what makes LiDAR such a powerful geospatial tool.

What is LiDAR?

LiDAR—short for Light Detection and Ranging—is a laser-based technology that captures precise 3D information about the Earth’s surface. Unlike traditional imagery, LiDAR can “see through” trees and vegetation, making it ideal for forest monitoring, city planning, and mapping hard-to-access terrain.

It works by sending out laser pulses and measuring how long it takes for them to bounce back. These return times are used to calculate distances and surface elevations with remarkable accuracy. Today, LiDAR is widely used in fields like biodiversity research, forest health monitoring, and autonomous vehicle navigation.

Thanks to its high precision, LiDAR can generate maps far more detailed than those created with traditional tools. This makes it a go-to method for collecting geospatial data in both scientific and commercial contexts.

What will you learn in this blended learning course?

In this course, you’ll build a strong foundation in LiDAR technology and learn how to apply it across different industries. You’ll explore how to collect, analyze, and use LiDAR data to produce accurate terrain models and maps. From day one, you’ll be working with real datasets and learning how to bring LiDAR into your own workflow.

You’ll see how LiDAR supports use cases in forest monitoring, city development, and autonomous navigation. We’ll also dive into how LiDAR contributes to collecting spatial data for both research and business purposes. You’ll get a clear overview of the different platforms used to capture LiDAR—such as drones, aircraft, and satellites—and the advantages of each.

Throughout the course, you’ll explore how LiDAR supports better decision-making in sectors like construction, forestry, and environmental science. Real-world examples will show how LiDAR saves time and cuts costs—such as by reducing the need for on-site fieldwork.

Why choose this Overview of LiDAR course?

Blended learning gives you the best of both worlds—live interaction and flexible, self-paced study—so you can build job-ready skills in LiDAR and geospatial analysis. In this course, you’ll get hands-on with real data and learn how to apply LiDAR in forestry, infrastructure, and environmental projects.

We start with a live session where you jump straight into practice. With support from experienced instructors, you’ll begin working with 3D data to map landscapes, vegetation, and built environments.

Next, our self-paced modules allow you to dive deeper at your own speed. You’ll learn how LiDAR works, explore differences between airborne and satellite systems, and practice processing point clouds. You’ll also integrate LiDAR into GIS and create terrain models from elevation data.

Later, in a second live session, you’ll apply your new skills to realistic challenges. You’ll refine your workflows, solve real problems, and get feedback to improve your results.

One of the course’s standout features is its case-based approach. You’ll produce useful outputs—like digital elevation models and vegetation maps—that can be directly used in your professional projects.

By combining expert-led instruction with flexible learning, this course helps you move beyond theory. By the end, you’ll confidently collect, process, and apply LiDAR data—supporting smarter, data-driven decisions in your field.

Sign up for this
Blended Learning

    Price: €395 (excl. VAT)



    Start:
     2-hour online session


    Self-study:
     Review course materials


    End:
     1-hour online session



    You’ll receive 1-on-1 guidance. After signing up, our course coordinator will contact you to schedule your first session.

    Learning Outcomes

    After completing this course, you will be able to:

    • Collect, process, and analyze LiDAR data for geospatial applications such as forestry and urban planning
    • Understand how LiDAR works and apply it across platforms like drones, aircraft, and satellites
    • Integrate LiDAR data into geospatial systems (e.g., GIS) to create detailed maps and terrain models
    • Develop efficient workflows to manage and share LiDAR datasets for accurate analysis
    • Use LiDAR insights to improve decision-making, increase efficiency, and reduce project costs

    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

    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.