Offerings at The Ohio State University

GEOG 5230 Drone Mapping

Course Overview
This course provides a comprehensive overview of drone-based mapping techniques and their geographic applications. Students will examine the technical foundations of data collection using small uncrewed aerial systems/unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS), with emphasis on core approaches such as visible-spectrum photogrammetry and LiDAR. Through lectures and selected field demonstrations, students will gain both theoretical understanding and practical experience in collecting, processing, and interpreting drone-derived geospatial data. This course equips students with practical techniques and analytical capabilities for addressing real-world challenges using sUAS mapping.

GEOG 3350 Aviation Geography

Course Overview
This course provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the fundamental elements of aviation geography. Students will explore the historical and contemporary evolution of aviation geography across various geographical scales. Additionally, the course will emphasize the essential operational aspects of airlines and airports within a geographical context, such as airline network models and airport catchment areas. Moreover, the instructor will address policies and regulations impacting aviation geography, including environmental regulations and international agreements. Furthermore, the course will introduce emerging challenges and trends in air transportation.

GEOG 3300 Transportation Security

Course Overview
This course is an introduction to transportation security: protecting transportation networks from damage and humans from injuries and deaths caused by intentional acts. We will discuss major transportation modes including air, maritime and land-based systems, their properties and the evolution of threats against these systems. This course will also explore the varying roles of private and public sector agents and their responsibilities.

GEOG 3360 Geospatial Mapping for Aviation

Course Overview
This course introduces students to the principles and practices of geospatial analysis in aviation contexts. Students will learn to work with aviation-specific geospatial datasets and build geospatial analytical skills. Rooted in the perspectives of economic, social, and environmental geography, the course covers foundational geospatial topics, such as airport siting and zoning evaluation and airport development business analysis. Through guided lab exercises, students engage in step-by-step workflows designed to build proficiency in both aviation spatial reasoning and technical execution.