Get started with GIS

Getting started with GIS can be challenging, but below you will find several resources to help you get started on your GIS journey.

On this page

Guides and tutorials

We have created a number of guides for downloading various GIS software programs as well as tutorials for starting GIS projects, performing basic GIS tasks, making basic GIS maps, and using GIS for more creative pursuits. These tutorials are available for Esri’s ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online, QGIS, and R.

View guides and tutorials

Drop-in sessions

The library hosts a Data & Viz Drop-in every Tuesday 9-11 am, where you're welcome to bring your questions about GIS.

Consult with us

Schedule a GIS consultation to ask questions about GIS software, data, and/or research methods please use this link to schedule a one-on-one consultation.

Community resources

On-campus

CyVerse
We offer the foundational tools and platforms - including data storage, data management systems, cloud services, Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), and powerful computationalresources - that enable complex, data-intensive research. We also host a series of geospatial workshops over the course of the school year.

UA Data Science Institute
Fostering the next generation of data-driven research by encouraging university-wide interdisciplinary collaboration, gaining external visibility, developing industry alliances, and increasing funding for UA research.

UA GIS Users Group (UAGISUG) 
A network of GIS users from University-wide affiliates who come together to share technical expertise on GIS issues.

UA Drone Discussion Group
User group for information on all things drones.

Off-campus

The Arizona Geographic Information Council (AGIC)
The mission of AGIC is to coordinate the development and management of geographic information in Arizona, to address problems, develop plans, and manage the natural, economic and infrastructure resources of the state.

Women in GIS - Arizona
Fostering relationships and resource sharing among women in GIS throughout Arizona. A professional and social organization as well as an advocacy group for women and their allies.

Tucson GIS Cooperative
The Tucson GIS Cooperative is a GIS Users Group that meets monthly, generally on a Thursday.

Esri Community
A global community of Esri users where you can find solutions, share ideas, and collaborate to solve problems with GIS.

BLACK GIRLS M.A.P.P.
Celebrating & connecting marginalized communities; using GIS to investigate social issues & empower change.

GIS Discord
Server to share your projects, maps, or questions about ArcMap/ArcGIS Pro or QGIS, whether you are just starting or work with GIS professionally.