Geographical Information Science MSc

The Geographical Information Science MSc focuses on the scientific, technical, and computational aspects of GIS, with particular reference to the socioeconomic and environmental sciences. This course introduces students to GIS and the packages and database systems available for use in business, health, and planning settings.

Course Overview

Geographical Information Science (GIS) has become a crucial part of society, benefiting a wide range of industries. From supply chain management to insurance, urban planning to government agencies, the scope of GIS software is huge – and is only going to keep growing. This is why corporations worldwide are looking for qualified GIS experts to bring together the geospatial data that'll help inform their future strategies and decision-making.

Why Study at Leeds

• Our globally-renowned research conducted right here on campus feeds directly into the course, shaping your learning with the latest thinking in critical areas like geodemographics, retail planning, wilderness, and remote sensing.
• Advance your skills and understanding of GIS data visualization, including spatial analysis and statistical skills required for the analysis of geographically referenced data.
• Tailor the course to suit your career aspirations with a selection of optional modules that'll hone your knowledge in the topics that interest you the most.
• Conduct your own project work which will enable you to develop transferable skills as a researcher, investigating real-world issues that suit your interests.
• Experience expert theoretical and practical teaching delivered by a programme team of academics who are at the forefront of their fields and are actively engaged in groundbreaking research from the Centre for Spatial Analysis and Policy research group and the Leeds Institute for Data Analytics.
• Enhance your career prospects and join our successful alumni who have pursued careers in some exciting corporations including ARUP, Jacobs Foundation, and USAID.
• This course offers flexible study options where you can study full-time over 12 months or part-time over 24 months to fit in with your lifestyle.

Guaranteed Industry Experience

While studying at Leeds, you'll have the chance to work with clients and gain consultancy experience as part of a 2-week online Global Industry Programme. As well as giving you the opportunity to build key industry connections, you'll also develop invaluable professional and practical skills that are highly valued by employers.

Course Details and Modules

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

Core Modules

• Professional and Personal Development – 30 credits: Acquire industry-relevant experience with in-demand software packages and gain hands-on experience to enhance your technical skills.
• GIS Data Visualisation and Analysis – 30 credits: Develop essential skills in visualization, spatial analysis, and statistics for geographically referenced data.
• Dissertation (GIScience) – 60 credits: The dissertation project is one of the most satisfying elements of this course. It allows you to apply what you've learned to a piece of research focusing on a real-world problem.

Optional Modules

• GIS and Environment – 15 credits: Explore the diverse applications of GIS in environmental studies.
• Geodemographics and Neighbourhood Analysis – 15 credits: Learn how area (neighbourhood) characteristics impact policy decisions in various organizations.
• Digital Image Processing for Environmental Remote Sensing – 15 credits: Introduce you to the fundamental principles of satellite image acquisition, processing, and interpretation.
• Environmental Assessment – 15 credits: Discover the principles and practice of environmental assessment, emphasizing tools applied to infrastructure and development plans.
• Web-Based GIS – 15 credits: Provide you with the technical skills required to build web-based mapping applications.
• Predictive Analytics – 15 credits: Gain the skills needed to demonstrate how computational modeling techniques can be used to analyze consumer behavior.
• Programming for Geographical Information Analysis: Core Skills – 15 credits: Introduce you to programming and reproducible data science practice in a general and in a geographical context.

Learning and Teaching

Teaching will be through workshops, seminars, presentations, practicals, and lectures, depending on the modules you choose. We have a dedicated postgraduate computer lab for workshops, practicals, and private study.

Assessment

Assessment is through coursework with no exams. There is a mix of essays, workbooks/reports, and practical work and assignments based on the analysis of real-world datasets.

Entry Requirements

• A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) in a natural science, numerate or computer science subject where good numeracy and/or computing skills can be demonstrated.
• Alternative subjects which may be considered include, but are not limited to, social science, forestry, ecology, economics, geology, water management/engineering, statistics, transport studies, sustainable development, climate change.
• Applicants with a 2:2 (hons) will be considered on a case-by-case basis where they can demonstrate relevant work experience or competence in a relevant specialist field.
• Professional qualifications and relevant experience can also be considered.

International Requirements

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information, please refer to the University's admissions policy.

English Language Requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, refer to the University's language requirements.

Fees

• UK: £13,750 (Total)
• International: £31,250 (Total)

Scholarships and Financial Support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government.

Career Opportunities

The value of GIS in today's society has grown exponentially. Organisations across the globe rely heavily on this technology – and the skilled specialists who can operate it – to visualize, analyze, predict, and report on critical data, whether that be locally or globally. University of Leeds students are among the top 5 most targeted by top employers, meaning our graduates are highly sought after by some of the most reputable companies in the field.

Work Placements and Industry Experience

As a Masters student at Leeds, you'll have the unique opportunity to gain real-world industry experience with our Global Industry Programme. You'll develop key professional skills and gain invaluable insight into working in your chosen field, helping to solve a real business problem from a live company brief.

Related Courses

• Consumer Analytics and Marketing Strategy MSc
• Data Science and Analytics MSc

University of Leeds

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Overview:

The University of Leeds is a public research university located in Leeds, West Yorkshire, England. It is a large and prestigious institution with a strong reputation for academic excellence and a vibrant campus life.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Leeds offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties, including:

• Arts, Humanities and Cultures
• Biological Sciences
• Business School
• Engineering and Physical Sciences
• Environment
• Medicine and Health
• Social Sciences