GIS in Talloires
Now in its second year, GIS in Talloires is an intensive two-week course at the Tufts European Center in Talloires, France, fully integrated into the extraordinary landscape and setting of the region. The course offers full Tufts graduate and undergraduate credit and a unique opportunity to explore global applications of Geographic Information Systems in one of the most beautiful environments in the world.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program is filled.
Introduction to GIS (GIS 101 / GIS 201 / ENV 107 / INTR 81)
Instructor: Sumeeta Srinivasan
Dates: July 13 to July 26, 2026
Credits: 3 SHU
Program Fee: $3,000 (plus degree-based, summer tuition)
Application Deadline: May 1, 2026
Course Description:
This course provides a broad foundation in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) theory, methods, capabilities, technology, and applications. Key topics include GIS data discovery, data structures and management, geodesy, cartography, and principles of spatial analysis using both raster and vector data. Students will explore principles of cartographic visualization and engage in basic spatial modeling. The course features extensive exercises that will allow students to apply concepts from lectures to real-world projects in their fields of interest. A final project will enable students to integrate GIS tools with their specific academic interests.
This course is a condensed and intensified version of the regular Tufts Intro to GIS course. Students should expect to do the same amount of work as they would for a Tufts course in Medford. Grades are added to each student's Tufts transcript.
Why Talloires?
The Talloires region provides an extraordinary backdrop for applied GIS learning. Situated on the shores of Lac d'Annecy and minutes from Geneva, students have direct access to the landscapes, ecosystems, and international organizations that bring GIS applications to life. From mapping the Alpine terrain to exploring urban planning in Annecy and international data projects in Geneva, the region is a living classroom.
Program Housing & What's Included:
GIS students are housed in a modern student residence in the heart of Annecy, just a short bus ride from the European Center in Talloires. Each student has their own private studio with a full private bathroom and kitchenette. The residence is steps from Annecy's shops, restaurants, a wonderful nearby grocery store, and the beautiful old town.
What's Included in the Program Fee:
- Private studio accommodation for the duration of the program
- Local bus pass for daily travel between Annecy and Talloires
- Welcome dinner with the group
- Basic kitchen supplies for your studio
- European Center staff support before and throughout the program
Not included: round-trip airfare, course textbooks, meals beyond the welcome dinner, and personal expenses.
Before You Apply:
It is very important that student applicants consult our Preparing to Go pages before applying to study in Talloires. Living in another country and navigating a new culture are wonderful experiences, but not without challenges. Understanding this ahead of time will help students make an informed decision about participating in the program. There are also many important practical aspects to consider before you apply, including finances, visa status, and more.
Eligibility:
Tufts Graduate and Undergraduate students:
The program is open to all students who meet the following criteria:
- Students must have completed one year of university studies.
- Students must be in good academic and disciplinary standing. "Good standing" means that a student is not on Disciplinary Probation or on Academic Probation. For a further explanation of "good standing," please refer to the Tufts Student Code of Conduct, found online via the Student Life website: https://students.tufts.edu/student-affairs/student-code-conduct
- Students are expected to have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75 (on a scale of 4.0). Freshman registrations will be held as pending until the first semester transcript is submitted to the European Center, no later than the first day of spring semester classes.
Non-Tufts Students:
Meet the criteria listed for Tufts students, plus the items below:
- Submit an official transcript from their home institution.
- Provide a letter of recommendation from your current academic advisor. Letters should be sent directly to the Tufts European Center at europeancenter@tufts.edu and should address your readiness for an intensive academic and cultural exchange program.
- Course Registrations for non-Tufts students will be processed via email.