Geographical Information Science MSc/Dip
This Masters programme focuses on the multi-disciplinary science concerned with the development and application of geographical information (GI) technologies. GI technologies are increasingly applied in everyday life, with, for example, the introduction of the Global Positioning System (GPS) and Google Earth. Core GI technologies, including geographical information systems (GIS) and remote sensing (RS), have had a long history of application in industries such as planning, agriculture, forestry, utilities, transportation, and various government and private-sector environmental agencies. The application areas for GI technologies are very widespread.
This programme provides the theoretical foundation and practical skills that are relevant for pursuing a career in a GI Science related field. By the end of this Masters you will have developed an advanced knowledge of and practical experience in:
- Information systems and their applications
- Methods of spatial analysis
- Computer modelling
- Computer mapping
- GIS theory and practice
- Advanced techniques for GIS development
- Visual BASIC programming and its use in GIS applications
- Database design and implementation
- Reporting of analytical results and their interpretation, both written and oral forms, particularly for scientific communication
Assessment Methods
Students must accumulate 180 course credits to achieve the required standard for recommendation to the degree of M.Sc. The 7500 word dissertation, based on an original research project of the student's own design, accounts for 60 credits. Dissertation topics can focus on any aspect of GI Science. The remaining 120 credits are based on eight, 15 credit course units, four taught in each semester. Both semesters include a skills course unit aimed at developing the necessary generic skills and theoretical background in GI Science. There is one core GI course unit in each semester. The remaining four course units are selected from a wide range of options offered by Geography, Planning, and the Institute for Development Policy and Management (IDPM), all within the School of Environment and Development. These optional course units enable students to tailor the programme to their unique interests and can provide the foundation for dissertation research.
Career Prospects
You will have the opportunity to learn from staff with advanced and practical understanding of GI Science. The taught-course component, together with the experience of carrying out a postgraduate level dissertation project, provides an excellent foundation for PhD research in numerous fields that involve geo-spatial data analysis, including physical and human geography, planning, development, and the environmental and earth sciences. There is a high demand worldwide for individuals with these skills. This Masters programme provides students with the background knowledge and experience needed for employment in many sectors, especially GIS consultancies, environment agencies, financial services, marketing, the oil and gas sector, agriculture and forestry, water authorities, health authorities, and retail.
Enquires
Informal enquires, prior to application, are welcome and should be directed to:
John Lindsay,
Tel: +44 (0)161 275 5502,
Fax: +44 (0)161 275 7878,
Email: john.lindsay@manchester.ac.uk.
Further details:
External Affairs Office,
School of Environment and Development,
University of Mancheste,r
Mansfield Cooper Building,
Oxford Road , Manchester,
M13 9PL, UK.
Tel: +44 (0)161 275 0969.
Fax: +44 (0)161 275 7878.