Advanced GIS and Remote Sensing MSc

Cranfield UniversityCranfield, United Kingdom

Tuition Fee

GBP 18,000 / Per year

Start Date

Oct 1, 2026

Study Mode

On campus

Duration

12 months

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Program Details

Degree
Masters
Major
Geographic Information Science | Geographic Information Systems (Gis)
Area of study
Information and Communication Technologies | Natural Science
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English

Intakes

Program start date
Oct 1, 2026

Program Overview

Advanced GIS and Remote Sensing MSc

The Advanced GIS and Remote Sensing MSc is an exciting and rapidly growing branch of information technology (IT), incorporating and integrating satellite remote sensing, aerial photography, and other spatial data to derive reliable and up-to-date information essential for the sustainable use or conservation of the earth's resources.


Overview

  • Start date: Full-time - October, part-time - October
  • Duration: One year full-time, two-three years part-time
  • Delivery: Taught modules 80 credits/800 hours, Group projects 40 credits/400 hours, Individual project 60 credits/600 hours
  • Qualification: MSc, PgDip, PgCert
  • Study type: Full-time / Part-time
  • Campus: Cranfield campus

Course Details

The course comprises eight modules, a group project, and an individual project. Courses are not isolated from the real world and many are supported by research groups working on cutting-edge programmes.


Course Delivery

  • Taught modules: 80 credits/800 hours
  • Group projects: 40 credits/400 hours
  • Individual project: 60 credits/600 hours

Group Project

The group project experience during the course is highly valued by both students and prospective employers. It provides the opportunity to take responsibility for a consultancy-type project while working under academic supervision.


Individual Project

The individual project is either industrially or University-driven, providing the opportunity to demonstrate independent research ability and contribute to knowledge.


Modules

The following are the compulsory modules for the course:


  1. GIS and Spatial Data Management: This module provides a solid introduction to the issues concerning the management of spatial information and the tools to do so.
  2. Aerial Photography and Digital Photogrammetry: This module introduces techniques for the extraction of topographic information from remotely sensed data using digital photogrammetry techniques.
  3. Scientific Python: This module aims to develop skills and confidence in writing code in the Python programming language.
  4. Applied Earth Observation: This subject introduces the basic radiometric concepts and physical relations and gives practical tools to extract physical measurements from digital image data.
  5. Image Processing and Analysis: This module gives the skills to select and apply appropriate image processing techniques for the extraction and analysis of information from image data.
  6. Advanced GIS Methods: This module introduces advanced methods that will have potential use in group and thesis projects and future careers.
  7. Environmental Resource Survey: This module covers the importance of environmental resource surveys required to obtain the data used in environmental information management.
  8. Web Mapping: This module provides a solid introduction to the management and dissemination of web mapping and spatial data on the Internet.

Teaching Team

The course is taught by members of research and academic staff and industrial representatives, including:


  • Professor Ronald Corstanje
  • Dr. Toby Waine
  • Professor Stephen Hallett
  • Dr. Daniel Simms
  • Dr. Abdou Khouakhi
  • Dr. Joanna Zawadzka
  • Mr. Ian Truckell

Accreditation

The MSc in Advanced GIS and Remote Sensing is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors.


Fees and Funding

Course Fees

  • Home:
    • MSc Full-time: £11,895
    • MSc Part-time: £1,765 (annual registration fee)
    • PgDip Full-time: £9,530
    • PgDip Part-time: £1,765 (annual registration fee)
    • PgCert Full-time: £5,950
    • PgCert Part-time: £1,765 (annual registration fee)
  • Overseas:
    • MSc Full-time: £18,000
    • MSc Part-time: £18,000
    • PgDip Full-time: £14,400
    • PgDip Part-time: £14,400
    • PgCert Full-time: £9,000
    • PgCert Part-time: £9,000

Funding Opportunities

To help students find and secure appropriate funding, Cranfield University has created a funding finder where you can search for suitable sources of funding.


Entry Requirements

We welcome applications from talented individuals of all backgrounds, and each application is considered on its individual merit. Usually, applicants must hold a UK lower second-class (2:2) undergraduate degree with honours, or equivalent international qualification, in a relevant science, engineering, or related discipline.


English Language

To study for a formal award at Cranfield, you will need to demonstrate that you can communicate effectively in English in an academic environment. Full details of how you can meet this requirement can be found in the English language requirements section.


Approved English Tests

  • IELTS: 6.5 overall and 5.5 in all skill components
  • TOEFL: 92 total and minimum skill component scores
  • Cambridge Assessment English: Cambridge English Scale score of 180 overall and 160 in all skill components
  • Duolingo: 120 overall and minimum subscores
  • Kaplan: 495 overall and 425 in all skill components
  • LanguageCert: 70 overall and 60 in all skill components
  • International ESOL: High Pass overall and 33 in all skill components
  • Password: 6.5 overall and 5.5 in all skill components
  • Pearson PTE: 65 overall and 59 in all skill components
  • Trinity College London: Overall Pass outcome

Program Outline


Outline:


Modules:

  • GIS and Spatial Data Management: This module introduces the functional components of a GIS, projections, data and modelling processes for managing spatial data.
  • Students will learn to organize and integrate spatial and aspatial data within a GIS, analyze and prepare data within appropriate spatial databases, and examine the role of the INSPIRE Directive and FAIR data principles for enabling interoperability between spatial data infrastructures.
  • Scientific Python: This module develops students' skills and confidence in writing Python code and accessing a broad ecosystem of packages and tools that comprise the foundations of Data Science.
  • Students will learn about fundamental programming concepts, explore Python scientific packages for data analysis and visualization, and apply geospatial data analysis and visualization with Python.
  • Aerial Photography and Digital Photogrammetry: This module introduces the techniques for extracting topographic information from remotely sensed data using digital photogrammetry techniques.
  • Students will also learn image interpretation principles and practices.
  • Applied Earth Observation: This module explores the physical principles and imaging technology behind the appropriate application of remote sensing to the monitoring of Earth resources.
  • Students will learn to define primary physical quantities related to measured radiance, compare the nature of surface and atmospheric interactions with electromagnetic radiation between passive and active satellite sensors, evaluate appropriate data for surface monitoring applications, and analyze the complete remote sensing process from data reception to information extraction.
  • Image Processing and Analysis: This module teaches students various image processing techniques for extracting and analyzing information from satellite, aerial, and drone image data.
  • Students will evaluate a wide range of image processing techniques and their underlying mathematical principles, select appropriate image processing sequences to achieve predetermined objectives, operate and manage an image processing system, and integrate image processing techniques into applications of remote sensing.
  • Advanced GIS Methods: This module introduces advanced GIS analysis methods used in environmental modeling and applications.
  • Students will learn to assess the quality of geographic data, apply advanced spatial analyses, design and conduct field surveys for data collection and verification, and select and perform appropriate modeling and statistical analyses.
  • Environmental Resource Survey: This module covers the fundamentals of environmental resource surveys, including why, when, where, and how to conduct them.
  • Students will learn about R software for manipulating and visualizing survey data, survey strategies for environmental resources, development of classification schemes, sampling and rapid estimates for plant communities, water and soil quality, assessment of existing data quality and use in survey design, statistical design and analysis for environmental resource surveys, and quality assessment of environmental data.
  • Web Mapping: This module introduces web mapping technologies and applications relevant to the management and dissemination of geographical data on the Internet.

Teaching:


Teaching Team:

The course features a diverse team of research and academic staff, along with industry representatives, with expertise in various areas of remote sensing, GIS, and environmental studies.


Teaching Methods:

The course utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, tutorials, real-world case studies, practical sessions, consultancy-led projects, and independent research.


Faculty:

The program boasts a highly qualified and experienced faculty with research backgrounds and industry connections.


Careers:


Career Opportunities:

The program equips graduates for diverse and rewarding careers in the geospatial sector, including:

  • Environmental management
  • Natural resource management
  • Urban planning
  • Transportation planning
  • Emergency management
  • Science
  • Government and Business intelligence
  • Data Analyst
  • Academic Researcher
  • GIS Technician
  • Geospatial Analyst
  • GIS officer
  • Project Development Officer
  • Remote Sensing Scientist
  • Airbus
  • Cambridgeshire Acre

Other:

  • The program is designed in close collaboration with industry to ensure graduates possess the necessary skills and knowledge to meet current industry demands.
  • The program is internationally recognized by employers across scientific, industrial, and educational communities.
  • The program offers a unique and innovative curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills training.
  • The program boasts a strong international outlook with career opportunities not limited to the UK.
  • The program provides support for international students to work in the UK after graduation.
  • The program offers practical, industry-led education, making graduates highly desirable to global employers.
  • Cranfield's strong reputation and links with potential employers provide outstanding opportunities for graduates to secure exciting jobs and develop successful careers.
  • Cranfield Careers and Employability Service offers career coaching and advice, CV development, interview practice, job opportunities, and access to hundreds of available jobs via their platform.
  • Cranfield alumni have access to lifelong career resources for education and career advancement.

Note:

This response combines information extracted from the provided context and is not an exhaustive list of all potential details related to the program.

About University


Overview:

Cranfield University is a postgraduate-focused institution specializing in science, technology, engineering, and management. It is renowned for its strong industry links and practical approach to education.


Services Offered:

Cranfield University offers a wide range of services to students, including:

    Careers and Employability Service:

    Provides guidance and support for career planning and job searching.

    IT Services:

    Offers access to computer labs, software, and technical support.

    Libraries:

    Provides access to extensive collections of books, journals, and online resources.

Student Life and Campus Experience:


Key Reasons to Study There:

    Strong Industry Links:

    Cranfield University has close relationships with numerous organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking.

    Practical Approach to Education:

    The university emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications, preparing students for successful careers.

    World-Class Facilities:

    Cranfield boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories, workshops, and research centers.

Academic Programs:

Cranfield University offers a variety of postgraduate programs, including:

    Taught Degrees:

    MSc programs in various fields, such as aerospace, energy, and management.

    Research Degrees:

    PhD and MPhil programs for students seeking to conduct advanced research.

    Apprenticeships:

    Level 7 apprenticeships for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge.

    Professional Development:

    Short courses and executive development programs for individuals and organizations.

Other:

  • Cranfield University has two campuses: Cranfield Campus and Cranfield University at Shrivenham.
  • The university is committed to sustainability and has a strong track record in environmental research.
  • Cranfield University is ranked highly in various international rankings, including those for sustainability and engineering.
Top 645Average ranking globally
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