Geographic Data Science

Program Overview

The Geographic Data Science program at Birkbeck, University of London equips students with advanced skills in capturing, analyzing, and visualizing geospatial information. Through a combination of lectures, practical sessions, and a dissertation, students gain expertise in GIS, spatial machine learning, and data analytics, preparing them for careers in fields such as urban planning, healthcare, and remote sensing. The program emphasizes real-world applications and collaboration with industry partners, ensuring graduates are highly sought after in the job market.

Program Outline

Geographic Data Science MSc, PG Dip, PG Cert at Birkbeck, University of London

Degree Overview:

This program provides advanced scientific and technical training in capturing, analyzing, and visualizing geospatial information. You will work with data on diverse domains like transportation, insurance, banking, telecommunications, logistics, energy, retail, agriculture, healthcare, urban planning, and scientific research.

Objectives:

• Enable you to analyze data critically and develop new skills for real-world applications.
• Equip you with key data science skills in high demand for research and industry.

Outline:

Program Structure:

• MSc: 180 credits (1 year full-time or 2 years part-time)
• PG Dip: 120 credits (1 year full-time or 2 years part-time)
• PG Cert: 60 credits (1 year part-time)

Program Content:

• Geospatial Programming and Spatial Machine Learning
• Introduction to Geographic Data Science
• Spatial Data Analytics
• Coursework and dissertation (MSc)
• Coursework only (PG Dip, PG Cert)

Modules:

• Compulsory Modules:
• Geospatial Programming and Spatial Machine Learning
• Introduction to Geographic Data Science
• Spatial Data Analytics
• Optional Modules:
• Earth Observation and Environmental Dynamics
• Social and Urban Applications Using Geospatial Technologies
• MSc Dissertation:
• GDS Dissertation

Course Schedule:

• Evening classes (typically between 6pm and 9pm)
• Some daytime courses available
• Class sizes vary depending on the module and teaching method
• Timetables available online from September

Assessment:

• Coursework
• Dissertation (MSc only)
• Exams (may be held during the day or evening)

Teaching:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Practical computing sessions
• Workshops
• Tutorials
• Dissertation supervision
• Field trips (optional)

Faculty:

• International teaching team with expertise in Big Data analytics, remote sensing, spatial analysis, and urban simulation.

Unique Approaches:

• Focus on real-world applications and problem-solving.
• Access to industry-standard software licenses and educational resources.
• Higher education lecturer
• Commercial/residential surveyor
• Cartographer
• GIS analyst
• Remote-sensing specialist
• Software developer

Other:

• Excellent support services for students, including study skills, learning development, disability, dyslexia, counseling, and mental health.
• Opportunities to attend workshops, seminars, and guest lectures.
• Access to Birkbeck's world-class library and online resources.
• Strong alumni network.

Academic year 2024–25, starting October 2024 Part-time home students: £5,700 per year Full-time home students: £11,400 per year Part-time international students: £9,915 per year Full-time international students: £19,830 per year