Geographical Information Science

Entry requirements

A 2:1 degree.

An understanding of potential applications of geographic information systems (GIS) is all that is required as students take a core module in their first term covering fundamentals, such as cartographic principles, web maps, responsible mapping, data file management and introduction to coding. This serves as a recap for those with existing knowledge but offers thought provoking challenges through the bespoke content design of this course

Applicants with workplace experience will be considered on an individual basis.

Please also see our guidance on essential documentation required for an initial decision on taught programme applications.

Months of entry

September

Course content

• Geographical Information Science (GIScience) in application has the potential to change the world. From agriculture, climate change and ecology through to weather, utilities and transportation, there are hundreds of applications of GI Science and a myriad of benefits to society.
• Geospatial data is used to solve problems in all sorts of For example, satellite imagery can be used to observe iceberg formation and understand glacial processes; weather information can be used to help filter claims for insurance companies; traffic flow information can be used to improve ambulance response times; geovisualisations can be used to create 3D views of locations and drone footage can be used to manage forests.
• Join our MSc Geographical Information Science to learn the entire workflow of geospatial data – from data collection, analysis and modelling through to mapping, generating predictions and validating your findings
• Our carefully designed programme means that whether you have a background in geography or are new to it and looking to change paths, you will find the programme challenging and rewarding
• We enable you to develop practical skills such as coding, drone analysis, remote sensing workflows and geo-visualisations, as well as key employability skills such as group work, communication, and presentation
• Our location in the beautiful South West enables us to provide field trips to unique sites such as Dartmoor National Park and engage with partners such as the Environment Agency and Treeconomics
• You can tailor your degree to your career aspirations by undertaking an applied project which can be either research-led or consultancy focused
• You will graduate into the Exeter Geographic Information Systems (GIS) network made up of 300 GIS professionals in diverse roles at various organisations (find out more in the careers section) and be equipped to pursue careers in the spatial information industry, national and local government, consultancies, utilities and research organisations

Geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing tools are the technologies at the heart of this multi-disciplinary science which is transforming the way data is collected, the research we undertake, the networks we reach, the way we communicate through geo-apps and the decisions that we make as individuals and organisations.

You will empower digital transformation through GIS and discover how it is being applied in a growing sector crossing all industries including business, government, science and leisure.

We will train you in the complete GIS workflows, from data collection to processing, analysis, publication, and dissemination of insights. You will develop skills in applying, investigating, visualising and communicating spatial data and detecting patterns. Alongside this, you will study drone analysis and geo-visualisations, discovering the 3D capabilities and animation in the Esri platform and open source solutions.

Optional modules enable you to gain a more in-depth understanding of applications and data ethics.

Your applied project will either provide an opportunity for you to work with external partners and apply GIS skills in a consultancy project or work with a University of Exeter academic to tackle local or global research goals.

Information for international students

International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B2. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country.

Fees and funding

We invest heavily in scholarships for talented prospective Masters students. This is in addition to the UK Government’s Postgraduate Loan Scheme. For information on how you can fund your postgraduate degree at the University of Exeter, please visit the postgraduate study pages on our website.