Program Overview
The Master of Environmental Geospatial Science program equips graduates with the skills to address complex environmental challenges. It integrates geospatial and environmental knowledge, empowering students to make practical recommendations for sustainable practices. The program offers a balance of theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing graduates for diverse career opportunities in environmental management, research, and consulting.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This Master of Environmental Geospatial Science program is designed to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to address complex environmental challenges that require advanced technical expertise. The degree integrates geospatial and environmental knowledge to empower graduates to make practical recommendations for enhancing decision-making processes surrounding various landscapes and ecosystems. By leveraging geospatial information, graduates can optimize planning and management strategies, leading to more sustainable practices.
Outline:
The Master of Environmental Geospatial Science program consists of a comprehensive curriculum that balances theoretical foundations with practical applications. The program typically takes 2-5 years to complete, depending on the individual's qualifications and pace of study. The course structure includes a combination of core and elective units, providing students with a thorough understanding of the field.
Core Units:
KGA581 Environmental Impact Assessment
(25 credit points): Examines legal, administrative, scientific, and social aspects of environmental impact assessment using case studies. Emphasizes practical application in Tasmanian contexts.
KGG539 Fundamentals of Spatial Information
(12.5 credit points): Provides a comprehensive introduction to geographic information systems (GIS) and basic remote sensing analysis, preparing students for advanced geospatial applications.
KGG540 Environmental Geographic Information Science B
(12.5 credit points): Delves into advanced GIS concepts, focusing on the analysis and visualization of spatial datasets. Enhances student proficiency in geospatial data management and interpretation.
KGG542 Environmental Remote Sensing A
(12.5 credit points): Introduces the theoretical and practical foundations of remote sensing, exploring the interaction of electromagnetic energy with the Earth's surface and atmosphere. Equips students with skills in image analysis and interpretation.
KGG546 Global Navigation Satellite Systems
(12.5 credit points): Examines the principles and applications of global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), highlighting their role in precise positioning and navigation. Covers GNSS technologies, data processing, and applications in various fields.
Core Option Unit:
KGA532 Reserve System Planning
(12.5 credit points): Explores frameworks, processes, and methods for planning protected area systems. Guides students in identifying and evaluating areas for inclusion in national reserve systems, promoting conservation and biodiversity protection.
Professional or Research Pathway:
Upon completing the core units, students can choose between a Professional Pathway or a Research Pathway.
Professional Pathway:
KGA703 Professional Research Methods
(25 credit points): Equips students with research methodologies to solve real-world problems. Covers research design, data collection, analysis, and the ethical considerations of conducting research.
KGA704 Professional Research Practice
(25 credit points): Focuses on policy-based research as a key transferable employability skill. Involves undertaking research to inform evidence-based policy positions on topical real-world issues.
Research Pathway:
KGA742 Research Thesis A
(25 credit points): Provides students with the opportunity to conduct independent research under the supervision of an experienced researcher. Equips students with project management skills and advanced research methodologies.
KGA743 Research Thesis B
(25 credit points): Continues the independent research project initiated in KGA742, culminating in the submission of a comprehensive research thesis. Demonstrates students' ability to undertake original research and contribute to the field of environmental geospatial science.
Assessment:
The assessment methods used in the Master of Environmental Geospatial Science program align with industry standards and academic rigor. Assessment tasks vary depending on the specific unit but typically include:
Exams:
Written or online exams assess students' understanding of theoretical concepts and their ability to apply knowledge to practical problems.
Assignments:
Research papers, case studies, and practical projects allow students to demonstrate their research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Presentations:
Oral presentations assess students' communication abilities and their capacity to present complex information effectively.
Projects:
Group or individual projects require students to collaborate, apply their knowledge, and deliver tangible outcomes that solve real-world problems.
Thesis:
For students undertaking the Research Pathway, the thesis serves as a comprehensive assessment of their research abilities and original contributions to the field.
Teaching:
The Master of Environmental Geospatial Science program is delivered by a team of highly qualified and experienced academics and industry professionals. The teaching methods are designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
Lectures:
Provide theoretical foundations and introduce key concepts, methodologies, and case studies.
Tutorials:
Offer smaller group discussions, allowing students to engage with the material more deeply, ask questions, and receive personalized guidance.
Practical Sessions:
Hands-on laboratory and fieldwork experiences enable students to apply their knowledge, develop technical skills, and gain practical experience in geospatial data collection, analysis, and visualization.
Field Trips:
Excursions to relevant sites provide students with immersive learning opportunities, exposing them to real-world applications of environmental geospatial science.
Independent Study:
Students are encouraged to undertake independent research and exploration beyond the formal teaching sessions, fostering their intellectual curiosity and self-directed learning.
Careers:
Graduates of the Master of Environmental Geospatial Science program are equipped with highly sought-after skills and knowledge, making them well-prepared for diverse career opportunities. Their expertise in geospatial data analysis, environmental management, and research translates into various job roles:
Environmental Project Officer:
Oversees environmental projects, conducts impact assessments, and develops strategies for sustainability.
Environmental Consultant:
Provides specialized guidance and expertise to organizations on environmental issues, regulatory compliance, and risk management.
Environmental Scientist:
Conducts research, monitors environmental indicators, and develops evidence-based recommendations for environmental protection and conservation.
Environmental Technician:
Carries out field surveys, collects data, and supports environmental scientists and project teams.
Geographic Information Systems Officer:
Specializes in managing, analyzing, and visualizing geospatial data, providing insights and decision-support to organizations.
Natural Resource Officer:
Manages and protects natural resources, such as forests, wildlife, and water bodies, ensuring sustainable use and conservation.
Natural Environment Project Officer:
Designs and implements projects that focus on improving the natural environment, promoting biodiversity, and enhancing ecosystem services.
Sustainability Advisor:
Guides organizations and individuals in adopting sustainable practices, reducing environmental impacts, and improving resource efficiency.
