Introduction to Geospatial Python Programming with QGIS (in-person) In-Person
Would you like to learn how to enhance your open source mapping using coding? This free, two-hour workshop from the Map and Data Library will give you a hands-on introduction to geospatial Python programming using QGIS. Designed for learners who have some basic knowledge of GIS and Python, we’ll explore how Python can be used to automate workflows, perform spatial analysis, and interact with desktop GIS environments using QGIS and its Python API.
Together, we’ll work through interactive coding exercises and explore real-world use cases, including spatial data processing, map automation, and error handling. We’ll focus on using PyQGIS, the Python API for QGIS, to build custom scripts and explore how Python can extend QGIS's functionality. We'll also briefly explore how Python can be used to develop your own custom QGIS plugins and standalone scripts.
Format:
• Instructor-led, in-person workshop
• Discussion and live demonstrations
• Hands-on coding in QGIS
• Time for questions and discussion
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the workshop, you will be able to:
• Understand the role Python can play in working with maps.
• Access and manipulate spatial layers using PyQGIS.
• Automate common GIS tasks like buffering and clipping.
• Load and style multiple map layers programmatically.
• Explore how Python can be used to extend QGIS through plugins and standalone tools.
- Prerequisites:
- Although this is a beginner-friendly workshop, we recommend having taken our introductory QGIS and Python workshops. You can register for a Map and Data Library workshop (or view recordings of previous sessions) here: https://mdl.library.utoronto.ca/support/workshops-and-training
- Audience:
- This workshop is designed for U of T students and researchers.
- Instructor:
- Cole White, GIS Analyst
This event will be held in Robarts Library, room 4033 on the 4th floor. For directions, please visit: https://onesearch.library.utoronto.ca/robarts-library-electronic-classroom
MDL is committed to making our workshops accessible to everyone. If you'd like to discuss how we can best meet any accessibility needs you may have and help you get the most out of this workshop, please contact Cole White (cole.white@utoronto.ca).
- Date:
- Wednesday, December 10, 2025
- Time:
- 1:00pm - 3:00pm
- Time Zone:
- Eastern Time - US & Canada (change)
- Location:
- Robarts Library, Electronic Classroom (Map )
- Audience:
- Alumni Community External Researchers Faculty Graduate Students Staff Undergraduate Students
- Categories:
- Maps & GIS Programming & Software
Cole is the GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Analyst at U of T's Map and Data Library, and a graduate of the Centre of Geographic Sciences in Lawrencetown, Nova Scotia. They offer expertise in advanced spatial analysis, Esri and open-source software, coding, cartographic design, and web mapping.
A few interesting projects Cole has worked on include:
• Performing spatial analysis to support sustainable economic empowerment for global communities
• Developing interactive, educational web maps to promote ecologically sound home gardening practices
• Designing creative, experimental map graphics to be used in collaborative published art projects
• Using deep learning to analyze historical maps
At U of T, Cole facilitates workshops, develops instructional materials, and provides technical consultations for anyone interested in GIS. Cole loves helping others learn and is dedicated to connecting learners of all varieties with skills and resources to make the best use of geospatial technology in their work. Feel free to get in contact at cole.white@utoronto.ca