Geographical Information Systems (GIS)

Entry requirements

A bachelor degree in geography or a related subject at 2:1 (hons) or its equivalent in geography or a related subject.

Relevant work experience and training courses are viewed positively and are taken into account particularly for candidates whose first degree grade falls below the normal minimum requirement.

Students without a background in geography but who have a degree that demonstrates good numeracy and/or computing skills are encouraged to apply.

If you’re interested in this programme but are unsure if you have the necessary background, please get in touch with us to discuss your position.

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information please contact the Admissions Team.

Months of entry

September

Course content

This Masters course focuses on scientific, technical and computational aspects of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Geographical Information Science (GIScience), with particular reference to the socioeconomic and environmental sciences. It provides highly qualified and motivated students sought by employers in the sector.

Core modules introduce GIS, a rapidly evolving area in business, health and planning settings, as well as in environmental applications. You will be introduced to GIS packages and database systems, useful for those wanting to undertake social and environmental science research and those wanting to understand the application of geotechnology as practitioners. You’ll study theories and concepts underpinning GIS and explore topics including spatial data models, data capture, spatial analysis and statistical and mathematical modelling. Optional modules allow you to focus on quantitative human geography, environmental applications and programming GIS.

This programme comprises two semesters of taught modules followed by a dissertation project. The first semester includes three core modules. The second semester, includes optional modules to allow you to specialise in your chosen pathway.

Our modules can be grouped thematically so that you can include topics relating to Planning and Society, to Environment and to Technical Development. There is freedom to choose whichever of our modules you wish.

The dissertation is carried out over the summer months and is an opportunity for you to investigate a topic and demonstrate your ability to apply the techniques you have learned during the course and bring in additional methods, whilst placing the work within appropriate literature contexts. Our aim is to submit the best dissertations for journal publication.

If you study this programme on a part time basis you will study fewer modules in each year. We set up a custom study programme for you based on your option choices.