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Geographical Information Systems MSc

University of Aberdeen

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Course options

  • Qualification

    MSc - Master of Science

  • Location

    King's Campus

  • Study mode

    Full time

  • Start date

    SEP

  • Duration

    1 Year

Course summary

Geospatial technologies are of increasing importance in many areas of commercial, industrial, and government employment, including nature conservation agencies, civil and coast engineering projects and marine and coastal zone management. As a result, the demand for courses in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and the related technologies has grown considerably.

A recent survey suggests that demand by employers for graduates with skills in the application of geospatial technology will continue to grow, particularly in areas where the practical application of spatial knowledge and understanding to environmental problems is important.

The Geographical Information Systems programme covers the fundamentals of techniques and tools for acquiring, storing, processing, classifying, analysing, and visualising spatially referenced data, and their application to the study of the Earth. This includes:

  • Spatial databases
  • Programming
  • Simulation and modelling
  • Global Positioning Systems (GPS)
  • Digital mapping and cartography
  • Airborne, satellite and UAV remote sensing
  • Digital image processing
  • Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
  • WebGIS and Internet atlases
  • Field data capture
  • Mobile GIS

The GIS programme continues to have a very successful employment record in the commercial sector, environmental agencies, local and national government, research, and academia. Graduates have gone on to work in a variety of roles, including; project officers, programmers, sales managers, GIS engineer, senior consultant GIS specialist and project managers.

Career opportunities are highlighted through site visits, field trips, guest lectures, and chances to work with organisations as part of the MSc Dissertation. This programme focuses students on the acquisition of practical experience, specialist knowledge and understanding, and problem-solving skills to pursue careers in any of these fields. In addition, there is the possibility of industry suggested projects, dependent upon minimum academic requirements, and industrial input and contact with geospatial practitioners.

Tuition fees

Students living in United States
(International fees)

£ 22,000per year

Tuition fees shown are for indicative purposes and may vary. Please check with the institution for most up to date details.

University information

University of Aberdeen

University of Aberdeen

  • University League Table

    41st

  • Campus address

    University of Aberdeen, Directorate of External Relations, King's College, Aberdeen, Aberdeen, City Of, AB24 3FX, Scotland

One of the top 40 universities in the UK (Complete University Guide league tables 2025).
Student population has over 130 nationalities and strong international global networks.
Experienced international student advisers with immigration expertise supporting students from application to graduation.

Subject rankings

  • Subject ranking

    38th out of 117 5

    24th out of 73 3

  • Entry standards

    / Max 227
    167 74%

    21st

  • Graduate prospects

    / Max 100
    n/a

  • Student satisfaction

    / Max 4
    3.10 77%

    27th

    46
  • Entry standards

    / Max 211
    175 83%

    10th

  • Graduate prospects

    / Max 100
    74.0 74%

    40th

    17
  • Student satisfaction

    / Max 4
    3.20 80%

    22nd

    4

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