Course description
This established postgraduate award is taught by an internationally recognised team within the Faculty’s GIS Research Centre. GIS is applied in many areas of government, industry and commerce, such as urban planning, medical research, vehicle navigation, emergency response systems, environmental monitoring, utilities maintenance
and market analysis.
This award concentrates on the use of GIS to investigate geographical problems and communicate information. It provides a theoretical background
to GIS users, covers the necessary technical material for major aspects of GIS design and gives practical experience in the use of GIS tools. The award also includes provision of the organisational skills needed to manage GIS within
departments and organisations. This course is accredited by the British Computer Society and gives exemption from some of its examinations.
Course Content
The MSc in GIS is made up of taught modules and a project.
* GIS in Practice – requires students to exploit the spatial data analysis and mapping capabilities of a commercial GIS package to solve a range of geographical problems.
* Principles of GIS – gives students an understanding of the underlying concepts, terminology and science of GIS.
* Web-based GIS – skills to use and develop these applications.
* Spatial Data Acquisition and Remote Sensing – a theoretical and practical overview of the available techniques for acquiring, integrating and processing spatial data.
* Social Applications in GIS – the use of GIS in a range of social applications and a theoretical and a practical understanding of a selected aspect of GIS through independent study.
* Physical Applications in GIS – the physical and environmental applications of GIS through independent study.
* Project Management and Research Methodology – use of project management techniques, tools and research methods.
* Project – design, implement and evaluate a GIS application of your own choice.
How To Study
The MSc in GIS is taught in block-mode, so each taught module is delivered intensively during a single week. Teaching weeks are spread evenly over the academic year. Assessment and coursework for each module are carried out in designated assignment weeks immediately following the module. Individual
modules are also offered as stand-alone short courses.
Career prospects
GIS is a well-established technology that is applied in many areas of government, industry and commerce. On completion of the award, you will be well-equipped for a career in this rapidly-expanding branch of information technology. GIS application areas include those in city and urban planning,
health and medical research, vehicle navigation, emergency response systems, environmental monitoring, utilities maintenance and market analysis.
