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Geographic Information Systems & Cartography

Geographic Information Systems can be used to store, edit, analyze, share, and display geographic information.

Geographic Information Systems Software

At AU we have access to multiple formats of geospatial software, including:

  • Desktop GIS programs like QGIS and ArcGIS which provide a tools for creating and editing geospatial data, performing analysis, and producing maps.
  • Web platforms such as ArcGIS Online which provide enable the creation of web maps and facilitate sharing data across institutions.

Accessing ArcGIS

As part of our recent update to enhance user accessibility and security, we have transitioned to Single Sign-On (SSO), allowing you to use your AU credentials to create and access your ArcGIS account. Follow these steps to get started:

Navigate to ArcGIS.com:

  • Open your web browser and go to arcgis.com.
  • Click the Sign In button.

Sign-In to the AU ArcGIS Organization:

Image of ArcGIS login page with the "Your Organization's URL" text circled in red pen.

  • Once on the sign-in page, click to expand the Your ArcGIS Organization's URL menu. (Circled in red in the image above.) 
  • Complete the existing URL by typing in: americanu
  • Check the Remember this URL box to simplify logging in in the future.
  • Click Continue.
  • Click American University. You'll be brought to the familiar AU sign-in page where you'll use your AU credentials and Duo to authenticate. 

Complete Your Account Setup:

  • If this is your first time logging in, you may be asked to provide additional information or agree to terms of service. Please follow the prompts to complete your account setup.

Start Using ArcGIS:

  • Once logged in, you'll have access to the ArcGIS suite of software and the vast array of mapping and analysis tools it offers.

Need Help? If you encounter any issues during the sign-in process or have questions about using ArcGIS, please contact geospatial@american.edu.

Use of American University’s ArcGIS license is governed by the Computer Use and Copyright Policy, the Information Technology Security Policy, and any other current or future applicable American University policies.