Training & Education

Get the skills you need from OpenGeo

OpenGeo not only develops the best open source geospatial software, we also train you how to use it. No matter your skill level, we have courses to suit your professional development needs.

Course offerings

Introductory courses

First, learn the tools. No prerequisites necessary!

  • Introduction to the OpenGeo Suite
    Learn about and use all the components of the OpenGeo Suite, including PostGIS, GeoServer, GeoWebCache, OpenLayers, and GeoExt. Topics include setting up your own mapping server, loading and publishing data, styling maps, building simple map applications, and integrating with other tools. A great survey course for those just getting started!
  • Introduction to PostGIS
    Learn how to load and manage data with PostGIS, the spatial extension to the PostgreSQL database. Topics include basic SQL syntax, indexing, joins, transforms, validation, and performance tuning. Familiarity with basic GIS concepts and using the command line is suggested.
  • Introduction to GeoServer
    Learn how to serve geospatial data on the web with GeoServer, the Java-based mapping server. Topics include data loading, basic styling, OGC standards, web interface, and map viewing with OpenLayers and Google Earth. Familiarity with basic GIS concepts is suggested.
  • Introduction to OpenLayers
    Learn how to create browser-based map applications and display data from a variety of sources with OpenLayers, a JavaScript-based client mapping library. Basic JavaScript syntax will be covered. Topics include basic map creation, working with raster and vector layers, adding map controls, interactivity, and integration with other frameworks. Familiarity with basic GIS concepts and using the command line is suggested.
  • Introduction to GeoExt
    Learn how to create fully-featured "desktop-like" mapping applications with GeoExt, a JavaScript-based mapping library based on OpenLayers and Ext JS. Topics include basic application creation, creating a full map viewer complete with layer tree and legend, and creating an interactive feature editor with table view. Familiarity with basic GIS concepts and using the command line is suggested.

Advanced courses

You know the tools. Now put them to use!

  • Geospatial System and Data Administration
    Learn how to administer and optimize your server for publishing data on the web. Topics include hardware provisioning, database configuration and optimization, web container configuration and optimization, security, caching, and network analysis.
    Prerequisites: Introduction to PostGIS, Introduction to GeoServer
  • Web Map Application Development
    Learn everything you need to know in order to build enterprise-ready web mapping applications.
    Prerequisites: Introduction to GeoServer, Introduction to OpenLayers, Introduction to GeoExt
  • Web Map Cartography
    Learn how to create beautiful maps. Topics include Styled Layer Descriptor syntax, using CSS, dynamic styles, optimization, and caching.
    Prerequisites: Introduction to GeoServer

Custom training

OpenGeo also provides custom training sessions for those with unique needs. These sessions are geared toward advanced students who are looking for help from core developers to solve particular problems using the OpenGeo Suite. During the session, students can ask the instructor to perform a code review, make performance suggestions, pair program on a new problem, advise on application architecture, give expert advice, and more.

Contact us for pricing and availability. Make sure when contacting us that you indicate what type of training you are interested in.

How to get training

Sign up for our training classes in one of three ways:

  • Find us at a conference near you: We give over a dozen workshops a year in various locations around the world.
  • Coming soon: Online training: Instructor-led live or self-paced online classrooms where distance is no barrier.
  • Onsite training: Our trainers come to your office and teach in your environment. Limited by availability. Two days minimum, up to 8 persons. Price is $2500 for introductory classes, $3500 for advanced classes, plus travel costs on a pre-approved basis.

Coming soon: OpenGeo Certification

Become professionally recognized to build and manage systems utilizing the OpenGeo Suite and its components.

Get training now!

Contact us about your training needs.

We also offer a range of training materials online, free!

Our staff are core developers and members of the communities of the geospatial projects you want to learn. We have years of experience teaching everyone from the novice student just getting started, to the expert who's ready to go into production.

Our workshops are featured regularly at events around the world, including regional GIS gatherings and the yearly Free and Open Source Software for Geospatial (FOSS4G) conference.

With OpenGeo you get the best possible mix of deep knowledge and practical teaching skills.