Geographic Information and Climate Change

Entry requirements

Normally a 2:1 in an approved subject. Applicants are expected to have good mathematical and computing skills.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The MSc in Geographic Information and Climate Change provides cross-disciplinary training in the scientific principles of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), satellite remote sensing and Earth system modelling, alongside key aspects of climate change science.

You will focus on the technical applications of GIS and Earth observation while exploring past, present and future patterns of environmental and climatic change at global and regional scales.

By the time you graduate, you will have hands-on experience working with GIS and remote sensing technologies, supported by a broad understanding of the scientific issues that underpin climate change.

Your learning is enriched by the combined expertise of our Geography and Biosciences teams, whose research spans geographic information science, environmental and climate dynamics, marine and ecosystem biology, and sustainable development.

Why Geographical Information and Climate Change at Swansea?

• Top 251-300 in the World for Environmental Sciences (QS World University Rankings 2026)

• 90% of our research outputs have been recognised as world-leading and internationally excellent - Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021

• 100% of the environment was rated as world-leading and internationally excellent - Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021

Your learning will be enriched by excellent connections with industry, government and third sector organisations, giving you valuable opportunities to engage with experts working on real world environmental challenges.

Throughout the programme, you will benefit from hands-on, experiential learning, from laboratory work and environmental modelling to immersive field courses, ensuring you develop practical, job ready skills that employers value.

All of this is supported by a close-knit academic community, where small cohort sizes, regular workshops, pastoral tutorials and exceptional staff engagement create a friendly, supportive environment in which you can grow and thrive.

Your Geographical Information and Climate Change Experience

Over the course of your studies, you will develop a deep understanding of the scientific principles underpinning geographic data, climate change and environmental dynamics.

Your learning is supported by exceptional computing facilities, including fifteen dual‑processor workstations for Earth Observation, a 20‑node multiprocessor Beowulf cluster, and the Department’s IBM Blue Ice supercomputer, which is used extensively for climate and glaciological modelling. These advanced resources ensure that you gain hands‑on experience with the tools and technologies used across the geospatial and environmental sectors.

Regular workshops and networking opportunities with researchers and practitioners further strengthen the sense of community within the programme, helping you build confidence, professional purpose and a strong sense of belonging.

By the time you graduate, you will have developed the practical problem solving abilities, analytical expertise and communication skills needed to succeed in a wide range of GIS, environmental and climate related careers.