Crime Mapping I: GIS Fundamentals

In-Person Training
This course is offered in person on a limited basis when scheduled.

Upcoming Sessions

May 11-15, 2026

  • Mon-Thurs 0800-1630, Fri 0800-1200
  • IEMA/Statewide Terrorism & Intelligence Center, 2200 S. Dirksen Pkwy, Springfield, IL 62703
  • Instructor Stacy Belledin
  • Cost: $445 for IACA members, $520 for non-members
  • Register | Springfield Logistics (PDF)

Course Overview

Crime mapping has become a fundamental skill for crime and intelligence analysts to learn and integrate into daily routines. But what are the most important skills for an analyst to learn in such a large field as Geographic Information Systems? This course will provide training on foundational concepts applying GIS to crime and intelligence analysis. Relevant concepts of crime mapping fundamentals will allow students to focus on applicable tools and techniques for law enforcement. Students will learn how to create a map, add datasets on a map, query, and filter data, and perform spatial analytical techniques to guide agencies into using data-driven decision-making in their agencies. The lessons will enable you to make GIS a part of your everyday analytical practice. 

By the end of the course, students should be able to achieve the following goals:

  • Explain basic concepts of GIS
  • Prepare data for mapping and spatial analysis
  • Interpret spatial analysis results
  • Use GIS to provide data-driven recommendations to decision makers

Topics Covered

  • Core GIS concepts for crime analysis
  • Spatial data types, projections, and coordinate systems
  • Data preparation and management for mapping
  • Crime map creation for operational and strategic use
  • Introductory spatial analysis techniques
  • Map design principles and common pitfalls

Intended Audience & Prerequisites

This is an intermediate-level class. Students are suggested to have a basic understanding of analytical skills, use of basic crime analysis computer applications, and experience with producing analytical products.

Format & Logistics

Length 4.5 days
Delivery Format In-person, instructor-led
Hands-On Instruction Yes
Equipment Participants must bring a laptop capable of running ArcGIS Pro. We strongly recommend each student bring a portable second monitor.
Software

This course uses Esri’s ArcGIS Pro and the Crime Analysis solution. Participants must arrive with ArcGIS Pro installed and fully functional on their laptop.

If you do not currently have access to an ArcGIS Pro license, or need assistance obtaining one, please email us at [email protected] for assistance at least two weeks in advance of the class to discuss available options.

Certificate & CEUs

Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a certificate of completion and 36 hours of continuing education units (CEUs), per IACA policy.

Online Alternative

Crime Mapping I is also offered as a 12-week online course in a structured, asynchronous format. The online version covers the same core content as the in-person course, delivered over a longer timeframe. It is available more frequently than in-person training.

Learn more about the online course: Crime Mapping I: GIS Fundamentals (Online)

Hosting or Course Questions

IACA does not maintain physical training facilities. All in-person training is delivered in partnership with host agencies that provide classroom space and local coordination. 

Agencies interested in hosting Crime Mapping I: GIS Fundamentals should contact the IACA Training Committee at [email protected] to discuss scheduling, logistics, and minimum attendance requirements.