Program Info - SRVY

 

HomeDegree Programs and CertificatesProgram Info - SRVY: FAQs

Land Surveying

 

FAQs

MCC Campus(s):Longview
Division Office: Science Technology Bldg, 208
Contacts:
Program Coordinator: David Gann, 816.604.2336
Administrative Asst: Jill Croy, 816.604.2510
Division Chair: Janet Wyatt, 816.604.2625

  1. How do I apply?

    If you have never been an MCC student, you will need to apply to MCC (Application for Admission) The application must be filled out online. It takes about 24 hours to be recognized by our system after submission. Transcripts showing any previous college credit should be ordered and sent to MCC.

    If you have taken classes at MCC within the last two years, your application and information should still be in the system. If it has been longer than two years, you will need to fill out a new application. If you have already earned a college degree, indicate it on your application.

  2. How do I start taking land survey courses?

    For the AAS degree or certificate, start with the math prerequisite. Depending on your math background, you may have to take a few semesters of math before taking the SRVY courses.

    The first surveying course, Elementary Surveying, SRVY 135, requires one of three math options that include trigonometry or precalculus. If you already have these math skills, you may take the trigonometry placement test (call 816.672.2510). (Study topics are available.)

    You should also check the rotation of land survey classes. Not all classes are offered every semester and you must have Elementary Surveying before you can enroll in other SRVY classes.

    Of course, you'll take much more math with the Associate in Engineering degree.

  3. Why is the math prerequisite so important?

    Although much of the equipment used in land surveying does calculations automatically, it is important you know how to do the math manually. The success rate for students with weak math backgrounds is low. Also, a strong math understanding is necessary to pass the LSIT exam. SRVY 135 teaches land surveying from a "pen and paper" standpoint.

  4. How long does it take to complete the AAS in Land Surveying?

    Most courses required for the AAS in Land Surveying can be completed within two years. However, because some of the SRVY courses rotate, there is often a lag period before the last courses can be completed.

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  5. What if I have been working in the land survey field for years?

    Most of our students are already in the field. They are either earning the 12 hours of SRVY credit that it takes to qualify to take the LSIT (Missouri) or they are pursuing the 60 hours required in Kansas. Even though you may have been surveying for years, you'll still need the math prerequisite or a satisfactory score on the trigonometry placement test.

  6. What does it take to become a registered land surveyor?

    http://surveyingcareer.com

  7. Can I take another SRVY course at the same time I am taking SRVY 135?

    Instructor approval is required. Occasionally an instructor will allow this, depending on your background.

  8. Can I test out of SRVY 135?

    This is called "credit by exam." There is an upfront fee of one half the price of the course that is non-refundable. The exam is given pass/fail and is comprehensive, based on the content of SRVY 135. Again, math skills are extremely important.

  9. What does it take to succeed in this career?

    Some of the personal characteristics needed in this field:

    • Precision thinking: uncompromising dedication to accuracy. You'll work with definitive scientific concepts
    • Integrity: honesty and ethical thinking and behavior
    • Attention to detail: careful application of rules of survey and mapping standards
    • Initiative: willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges
    • Dependable: reliable, responsible and able to complete obligations
    • Analytical thinking: use of logic to address specific issues
    • Independence: ability to direct and complete one's own work with little or no supervision
  10. What will I learn?

    Upon completion of the associate's degree, you will be able to:

    1. Perform land survey crew duties.
    2. Measure and perform data reduction and adjust a horizontal and vertical control network.
    3. Accurately model and map the earth's surface at a specified scale.
    4. Analyze and retrace US public land surveys.
    5. Compute and apply state plane coordinate systems.
    6. Explain measurement accuracy and uncertainty and how to control them.
    7. Analyze and use general least-squares for both curve-fitting and coordinate transformation.
    8. Evaluate information needed to retrace a land boundary survey.
    9. Evaluate and compose land descriptions.
    10. Analyze evidence and develop solutions to retracement problems.
    11. Explain the geometric principles of land planning and apply the principles of site analysis and selection to subdivisions.

 

Last Modified: 9/19/11