Topic outline

  • Geodetic Reference Datums and Local Coordinate Systems

    Credits: 4 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course provides guidance on geodetic reference datums, coordinate systems, and local horizontal and vertical reference systems that are used for the georeferencing of construction and civil works projects. Use of State Plane Coordinate Systems (SPCS) is covered in detail since these systems are most commonly used to reference topographic surveys of local projects. Transformations between datums and coordinate systems are also discussed.

    Topics:

    • Background of Geodetic Reference Datums, Local Coordinate Systems
    • Geodetic, Horizontal, Vertical, and Project datums
    • The National Spatial Reference System (NSRS)
    • WGS 84 Reference Ellipsoid
    • Horizontal Datums and Reference Frames
    • Geographic Coordinates
    • State Plane Coordinate Systems
    • Grid Elevations, Scale Factors, and Convergence
    • Universal Transverse Mercator Coordinate System
    • US Military Grid-Reference and US National Grid Systems
    • Datum Conversions and Transformation Methods
    • Horizontal Transition Plan from NAD 27 to NAD 83
    • National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929 (NGVD 29)
    • North American Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD 88)
    • Other Vertical Reference Datums and Planes
    • Orthometric Elevations, WGS 84 Ellipsoidal Heights
    • Orthometric Height and WGS 84 Ellipsoidal Elevation Relationship
    • Geoid Undulations and Geoid Models
    • Using GPS to Densify Orthometric Elevations
    • Vertical Datum Transformations
    • Vertical Transition Plan from NGVD 29 to NAVD 88
    • Vertical Control in Areas Subjected to Subsidence or Sea Level Rise
    • Mandatory Standards

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.
         NOTE: After the exam is completed, you will need to return to this page, in order to print (download) the certificate of completion.

    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended for surveying, and engineering professionals whose job description may require an intermediate knowledge of Geodetic Reference Datums and Local Coordinate Systems.
    Publication Source: USACE (Corp of Engineers)

    Donald Parnell, PE

    • Topic 1