Geographical Information Systems, MSc

Program Overview

With a focus on practical experience and industry connections, the program prepares graduates for careers in various fields, including environmental management, urban planning, and research. The program is available for both full-time and part-time study, with online options for part-time students.

Program Outline

This program provides over 25 years of excellence in postgraduate teaching of remote sensing, GIS, visualization, digital mapping, and cartography. It is available for both full-time and part-time study, with online options for part-time students, and starting in either January or September.

Objectives:

• Equip students with the fundamentals of techniques and tools for acquiring, storing, processing, classifying, analyzing, and visualizing spatially referenced data.
• Apply these skills to the study of the Earth, covering:
• Spatial databases
• Programming
• Simulation and modelling
• Global Positioning Systems (GPS)
• Digital mapping and cartography
• Airborne, satellite, and UAV remote sensing
• Digital image processing
• WebGIS and Internet atlases
• Field data capture
• Mobile GIS

Description:

This program prepares graduates for careers in various fields, including:

• Nature conservation agencies
• Civil and coast engineering projects
• Marine and coastal zone management
• Environmental agencies
• Local and national government
• Research
• Academia

Key Features:

• Industry Advisory Board provides relevant and up-to-date information on current practices and trends.
• Opportunity to work with organizations as part of the MSc Dissertation.
• Emphasis on practical experience, specialist knowledge, and problem-solving skills.
• Field trips and guest lectures provide valuable insights into real-world applications.

Outline:

Content:

• Remote sensing
• Spatial analysis
• Programming
• GIS
• Digital mapping
• Cartography
• Data management
• Field data capture
• Visualization

Structure:

• Stage 1:
• Compulsory courses:
• Current Applications of GIS
• Introduction to GIS Tools, Techniques, Cartography & Geovisualisation
• Advanced Spatial Analysis and Programming
• Fundamentals and Advanced Applications of Map Algebra
• Optional courses:
• Additional elective courses available
• Stage 2:
• Compulsory courses:
• Dissertation Project in GIS
• Part-time online students:
• Specific course list provided
• Stage 3:
• Compulsory courses:
• Current Applications of GIS: Explores real-world applications of GIS in various fields.
• Introduction to GIS Tools, Techniques, Cartography & Geovisualisation: Introduces fundamental geospatial tools and techniques for data visualization and analysis.
• Advanced Spatial Analysis and Programming: Provides in-depth knowledge of spatial analysis methods and programming techniques in GIS.
• Fundamentals and Advanced Applications of Map Algebra: Develops advanced knowledge of spatial analysis tools in GIS using Map Algebra techniques.
• Dissertation Project in GIS: Enables students to conduct independent research and complete a dissertation project under the guidance of a supervisor.
• Additional elective courses:
• Options for additional courses may be available depending on the year and semester.

Course Schedule:

• Full-time students:
• Study one semester per stage, with exams following each semester.
• Dissertation project completed in the final semester.
• Part-time students:

Assessment:

• Assessment methods:
• Written assignments
• Practical assignments
• Presentations
• Laboratory reports
• Dissertation (Stage 2)
• Oral examination
• Poster presentation
• Assessment criteria:
• Knowledge and understanding of the subject matter
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Communication and presentation skills
• Research and analytical skills

Teaching:

• Teaching methods:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Field trips
• Guest lectures
• Practical sessions
• Independent research
• Faculty:
• Experienced and qualified academics with expertise in GIS and related fields.
• Strong industry connections and collaboration with external organizations.
• Unique approaches:
• Emphasis on practical experience and hands-on learning.
• Industry-focused curriculum and guest lectures.
• Opportunities for field trips and project work with real-world organizations.
• Strong support network for students.

Careers:

• Career paths:
• GIS Consultant
• GIS Technician
• Planning Analyst
• Project Manager
• Spatial Data Consultant
• Researcher
• Academic
• Opportunities:
• Employment opportunities in various sectors, including:
• Commercial sector
• Environmental agencies
• Local and national government
• Research
• Academia
• Careers in various fields, including:
• Nature conservation
• Civil and coastal engineering
• Marine and coastal zone management
• Environmental management
• Urban planning
• Resource management
• Outcomes:
• Graduates are well-equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in various GIS-related careers.
• Program prepares students for professional certification exams.

Other:

• Eligibility:
• 2:2 (lower second class) Honours degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
• Candidates with degrees in other subject areas may be considered if they demonstrate relevant experience or interest.
• English Language Requirements:
• Minimum requirements for IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English exams.
• Funding:
• Industry Links:
• Program supported by an Industry Advisory Board with members from various relevant organizations.
• Student Testimonials:
• Program Duration:
• Full-time: 12 months
• Part-time: 24 months (full-time equivalent)
• Application Process:

EU / International students: £22,000 UK: £10,000