Free United Nations GIS and OpenStreetMap Courses: Join the UN Maps Learning Hub in 2026
The United Nations Maps Learning Hub offers free, self-paced online training for people interested in Geographic Information Systems, OpenStreetMap, QGIS, digital mapping and open geospatial information.
Developed through the UN Maps initiative and provided by the United Nations Global Service Centre, the platform gives learners an opportunity to develop practical mapping skills that can support development, peacekeeping, sustainability, humanitarian action and emergency-response activities.
The learning platform is open to participants from around the world, regardless of nationality or professional background. Most courses are publicly accessible after creating an account, although selected courses concerning internal United Nations systems are restricted to UN personnel.
There is currently no application deadline. Learners can register, enrol and begin studying through the UN Maps Learning Hub at their own pace.
What Is the UN Maps Learning Hub?
The UN Maps Learning Hub is an online self-training platform that teaches learners how to understand, create, edit, analyse and use open geospatial information.
The platform is closely connected with UN Mappers, a global community of volunteers and geospatial contributors who improve open geographic data in support of United Nations activities.
Its educational content covers several areas, including:
- OpenStreetMap fundamentals
- Basic and advanced geographic data editing
- Mapping geographic features and objects
- OpenStreetMap data validation
- Land-use and land-cover mapping
- QGIS analysis
- Digital map creation
- UN Maps applications and tools
- UN Geoportal functions for authorized personnel
- The use of open geospatial information in development and peacekeeping contexts
The platform is designed for different levels of experience. A complete beginner can start with introductory OpenStreetMap lessons, while a more experienced mapper can move to advanced editing, validation, QGIS analysis and map-production topics.
According to the official UN Maps learning page, the Learning Hub is intended to provide an all-in-one educational pathway for people who want to build geospatial skills and contribute more effectively to UN Maps initiatives.
Is the UN Maps Learning Hub Free?
Access to the UN Maps Learning Hub is free.
The official platform does not publish tuition fees, application charges or subscription costs. Learners are required to create an account to enrol in courses and track their progress.
The learning materials relating to OpenStreetMap are also released under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 licence, commonly known as CC BY-SA 2.0. This supports the reuse and adaptation of the materials, subject to the applicable attribution and share-alike conditions.
Application Deadline
There is no published application or enrolment deadline for the self-paced courses.
The platform operates as an ongoing online learning resource. Participants can generally create an account, select an available course and begin studying without waiting for a fixed annual application cycle.
Because course availability may change, learners should review the official portal before enrolling.
Courses Available on the UN Maps Learning Hub
The public course catalogue currently identifies four major learning areas.
1. OpenStreetMap Basics
The OpenStreetMap Basics course is the recommended starting point for learners who have little or no previous mapping experience.
OpenStreetMap is a collaborative global project that creates and maintains a free, editable map of the world. Contributors add and improve information about roads, buildings, waterways, land use, public facilities and other geographic features.
The introductory course is designed to help learners understand:
- What OpenStreetMap is
- How collaborative open mapping works
- How geographic information is represented
- How to begin editing OpenStreetMap
- How to use the principal OpenStreetMap editing tools
- How to identify and map common geographic objects
- How to follow appropriate mapping practices
- How geographic data can support UN-related activities
- How individual contributors can participate in the wider mapping community
The platform explains that its courses include geographic objects encountered in areas associated with United Nations peacekeeping missions supported by the UN Maps initiative.
Beginners are advised to complete the introductory learning material before moving to advanced editing and validation.
2. OpenStreetMap Advanced
The OpenStreetMap Advanced course is intended for learners who already understand basic OpenStreetMap concepts and editing practices.
The advanced learning path builds deeper technical capabilities in areas such as:
- Advanced OpenStreetMap editing
- Geographic data quality
- Data validation
- Identification and correction of mapping errors
- Complex mapping situations
- Land-use and land-cover mapping
- Interpretation of available imagery
- Consistency and completeness of mapped features
- Advanced contribution workflows
Data validation is particularly important in collaborative mapping. Open geographic databases receive contributions from users with varying levels of experience, so advanced contributors help review information, identify inconsistencies and improve overall data quality.
The UN Maps learning pathway specifically connects its advanced OpenStreetMap track with validation and land-cover mapping.
3. QGIS Training
QGIS is a widely used open-source Geographic Information System application. It allows users to view, manage, analyse, combine and present geospatial data.
The QGIS training component expands the Learning Hub beyond basic map editing. It is intended to help participants understand how geographic information can be analysed and converted into useful maps or other visual products.
Depending on the available course modules, QGIS-related learning may support the development of skills associated with:
- Understanding GIS concepts
- Working with geographic datasets
- Managing spatial layers
- Displaying and styling geographic information
- Conducting geospatial analysis
- Creating maps
- Presenting spatial results
- Using open-source GIS tools for practical assignments
- Supporting evidence-based planning and decision-making
QGIS can be useful to students and professionals working in urban planning, environmental management, disaster-risk reduction, infrastructure, public administration, development, humanitarian assistance and academic research.
The QGIS course was introduced on the Learning Hub during 2025. UN Maps reported that the platform had hosted 3,111 learners by the end of that year. UN Mappers 2025 review
4. UN Geoportal Basics
The UN Geoportal Basics course concerns the use of the United Nations Geoportal and is marked as available to UN staff only.
This restriction exists because the course deals with systems or functions that may not be accessible to the general public.
Eligible UN personnel may use this course to build knowledge of relevant Geoportal tools and workflows. Members of the public should not assume that registration on the Learning Hub will automatically grant them access to restricted United Nations applications.
The UN Maps Learning Path
The broader UN Maps Learning Path organizes educational content around different audiences and technical needs.
UN Track
The UN Track begins with very basic OpenStreetMap editing. Its purpose is to help authorized users understand how basemap information can be updated through UN Maps tools.
The track then provides more detailed guidance on the features and functions of UN Maps applications through instructional material, videos and walkthroughs.
Some parts of this track may be limited to United Nations personnel because they involve tools that are not publicly accessible.
OpenStreetMap Track
The OpenStreetMap Track is designed for both new and experienced UN Mappers.
The track may include:
- Basic OpenStreetMap learning for beginners
- More advanced mapping practices
- Data-validation techniques
- Land-use and land-cover mapping
- Progressive development of open-mapping capabilities
Learners can begin at the level most appropriate to their existing skills.
UN OpenGIS Track
The UN OpenGIS learning track is intended to provide educational resources concerning open-source GIS software through collaboration with the UN-GGIM Academic Network.
The official learning-path page identifies this track as not yet released. Prospective learners should therefore verify its current status on the portal rather than assuming that all planned material is already available.
Self-Paced and Independent Learning
The courses are structured for online self-training.
This means participants do not ordinarily need to attend classes at a fixed physical location. Learners can work through the available content using an internet-connected computer or compatible device.
The courses are independent and can be accessed in different orders. However, beginners are encouraged to follow the suggested sequence, starting with basic OpenStreetMap learning before moving to more advanced content.
The platform allows registered users to:
- Enrol in available courses
- Access online learning materials
- Track learning progress
- Complete quizzes
- Take tests covering individual sections
- Attempt assessments for an entire course
- Develop skills progressively
- Receive available participation badges
The exact length of study will depend on the selected course, the learner’s existing knowledge and the amount of time dedicated to practical exercises.
Languages Supported
The UN Maps Learning Hub is multilingual.
The broader UN Maps learning page states that educational content is supported in the six official languages of the United Nations:
- Arabic
- Chinese
- English
- French
- Russian
- Spanish
Additional languages may become available through community-led translation initiatives.
Not every individual course or module should automatically be assumed to be fully available in every supported language. Learners should check the selected course after logging in to confirm the languages currently offered for that content.
Do the Courses Provide Certificates?
Learners should distinguish between participation badges, course-completion recognition and the planned UN Mappers certification system.
The UN Maps Learning Hub states that registered participants can complete quizzes and tests and may receive badges of participation.
However, the public landing page describes the comprehensive UN Mappers certificate as a future feature. The proposed certification process is expected to involve:
- Passing an evaluation covering knowledge taught through the Learning Hub.
- Completing several UN Mappers project tasks in different mapping contexts.
- Submitting the completed work for review by the UN Mappers team.
- Responding to feedback and making corrections or improvements where required.
Therefore, applicants should not promote the current self-paced courses as automatically providing a formal United Nations professional certificate unless the specific course page expressly confirms that one is available.
A participation badge is not necessarily equivalent to an accredited academic qualification, professional licence or formal UN employment credential.
Who Can Join the UN Maps Learning Hub?
The public learning platform is accessible to people around the world who want to learn about open geospatial information.
Potential learners include:
- University and college students
- Recent graduates
- Teachers and academic researchers
- GIS professionals
- Urban and regional planners
- Surveying and geography students
- Environmental professionals
- Humanitarian workers
- Development practitioners
- Disaster-management professionals
- Public-sector employees
- Data analysts
- Civil-society organizations
- Open-source technology enthusiasts
- OpenStreetMap contributors
- Volunteers interested in UN Mappers
- People with no previous mapping experience
No university degree, professional certification or previous employment experience is listed as a general requirement for the publicly available courses.
Some technical modules may be easier for learners with previous GIS or mapping knowledge, but beginners can start with the OpenStreetMap Basics course.
How the Learning Can Support United Nations Activities
Open geospatial information can help organizations understand where communities, infrastructure, natural features and services are located.
High-quality maps can support activities related to:
- Peacekeeping operations
- Sustainable development
- Humanitarian response
- Disaster preparedness
- Emergency relief
- Infrastructure planning
- Environmental assessment
- Community development
- Agricultural planning
- Public-service delivery
- Accessibility analysis
- Field logistics
- Evidence-based decision-making
UN Mappers contributors have supported projects involving peacekeeping missions and other UN entities. UN Maps reported that volunteer mapping contributed to mapsheets supporting the United Nations Support Office in Somalia and the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic.
The initiative also supported the Food and Agriculture Organization by producing baseline map data for agricultural planning along the Senegal River in Mauritania.
The UN Mappers Community
The Learning Hub is connected with the wider UN Mappers community.
According to the UN Maps community page, the initiative includes more than 6,000 volunteers worldwide and has conducted more than 400 mapping events and capacity-building activities since 2020.
Community members may participate in:
- Collaborative mapping projects
- Online or in-person training
- Mapathons
- Mapping parties
- Technical discussions
- Emergency mapping activities
- Community events
- Knowledge-sharing sessions
- Mapping challenges
- Volunteer contributions supporting UN operations
Learners who complete the courses can use their new skills to explore these collaborative opportunities. Course registration itself, however, should not be interpreted as employment, an internship or formal appointment with the United Nations.
Community Support for Learners
The UN Mappers community provides support for newcomers who encounter technical or learning-related questions.
Learners may seek help through:
- UN Mappers communication channels
- Social media
- The UN Mappers Discord community
- Email support
- Experienced geospatial contributors
For customer support, learners can contact:
Email: un.mappers@un.org
For feedback and suggestions concerning UN Maps, users can contact:
Email: maps@un.org
How to Register and Start Learning
Prospective learners can follow these steps:
- Visit the UN Maps Learning Hub.
- Select the option to log in or create a new account.
- Complete the required account-registration process.
- Confirm the account if email verification is requested.
- Log in to the platform.
- Review the available course catalogue.
- Select a suitable learning pathway.
- Enrol in the chosen course.
- Begin with introductory material if you are new to mapping.
- Complete the lessons, practical activities, quizzes and tests.
- Monitor progress through the learner account.
- Claim any participation badge made available after meeting the relevant requirements.
The login page also displays supported institutional or third-party sign-in options, including Azure and LinkedIn. Available login methods may change, so users should follow the options shown on the official registration page.
Recommended Learning Order for Beginners
Although courses can be taken independently, a new learner may benefit from the following sequence:
- OpenStreetMap Basics
- Practical OpenStreetMap editing
- OpenStreetMap Advanced
- Data validation
- Land-use and land-cover mapping
- QGIS Training
- UN Maps or UN Geoportal material, where eligible
This progression allows the learner to begin with basic geographic concepts and gradually advance toward data validation, analysis and professional map production.
Important Points to Remember
Before registering, prospective learners should understand that:
- The Learning Hub is an educational platform, not a recruitment portal.
- Registration does not create an employment relationship with the United Nations.
- Most public courses are free and self-paced.
- Some courses are restricted to UN personnel.
- There is no published general enrolment deadline.
- An account is required to track progress.
- Learners may complete quizzes and tests.
- Participation badges may be available.
- A comprehensive UN Mappers certificate is described as a future feature and should not be assumed to be currently available.
- Course availability, languages and recognition may vary.
- Formal educational or professional qualifications are not generally required for public courses.
Why the UN Maps Learning Hub Is Valuable
The Learning Hub combines several valuable features within one platform:
- Free access to geospatial learning
- Beginner and advanced course options
- Training in OpenStreetMap and QGIS
- Practical connection to global development work
- Multilingual educational resources
- Self-paced online study
- Knowledge tests and progress tracking
- Access to a worldwide mapping community
- Opportunities to contribute to open geographic data
- Exposure to the role of mapping in peacekeeping and humanitarian work
For students and early-career professionals, the platform can provide an accessible introduction to geospatial information. For experienced mappers, it can offer advanced learning in validation, land-cover mapping and the application of open geographic data.
Conclusion
The UN Maps Learning Hub provides a free and globally accessible pathway for learning OpenStreetMap, QGIS, geospatial analysis and digital map creation.
Participants can begin with basic OpenStreetMap concepts, progress to advanced editing and data validation, and develop GIS analysis and map-making skills through QGIS training. The platform supports multiple languages, provides quizzes and progress tracking, and connects learners with the wider UN Mappers community.
There is no published general application deadline, and most public courses do not require a degree, professional experience or previous GIS knowledge. However, some courses involving internal United Nations systems are reserved for UN personnel.
Anyone interested in geographic data, humanitarian mapping, sustainable development, public planning, emergency response or open-source GIS can visit the official platform, create an account and begin learning.
For more global opportunities, click HERE.
Share this:
Discover more from Opportunities for Youth
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
