Entry requirements

Minimum 2:1 undergraduate honours degree in any subject.

We also consider a wide range of international qualifications: Entry requirements for international students

We assess each application on the basis of the applicant’s preparation and achievement as a whole. We may accept applicants whose qualifications don’t meet the published entry criteria but have other experience relevant to the course.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Acquire the theoretical knowledge, technical skills and practical experience you need to launch a successful career in the fields of GIS, applied policy research or spatial data analysis.

Course description

This course is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts, tools, and techniques used in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) with a focus on their application in real world contexts.

GIS skills are applicable across a wide range of industries including urban planning, environmental management, natural resource exploration, transportation, public health, disaster management, marketing, and many others. By studying GIS, you will gain a skill set that can be valuable in a wide range of career paths.

Throughout the course, you will be introduced to the core principles of GIS and its application in various industries; and gain hands-on experience with popular GIS software, including both ArcGIS and QGIS. You will also develop practical skills in data management, spatial and quantitative analysis, and visualisation.

The course combines computer-based workshops, lectures and project work to provide a solid foundation in GIS. By the end of the course, you will be equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to work with spatial data in a wide range of fields, able to apply a variety of advanced spatial and quantitative analyses, and have the skills to create compelling maps and visualisations.

Facilities and equipment

Our postgraduate study rooms are equipped with the latest industry-standard GIS software and a range of other specialist tools. GIS facilities are available on all 1,500 networked computers across campus.

Accreditation

This programme has been accredited by the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG). Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in geographical knowledge and skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of the world beyond higher education. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

Find more information on our course website here

Information for international students

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 (with 6 in each component) or University equivalent

Other English language qualifications we accept

Pathway programme for international students

If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for a pre-masters programme in Business, Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Sheffield International College. This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.