Geographical Information Science MSc

This part-time, distance learning Masters course will provide you with in-depth and specialist knowledge of GIS techniques. You will focus on scientific, technical and computational aspects of Geographical Information Science (GIScience), with particular reference to the socioeconomic and environmental sciences.

Core modules introduce GIS, a rapidly evolving area in business and environmental applications. You will be introduced to GIS packages and a range of data sources/techniques, useful for those wanting to undertake social and environmental science research and those keen to understand the application of geotechnology as practitioners. You’ll study theories and concepts underpinning GIS and explore topics including Big Data with advanced visualisation, digital image processing, and geodemographics.

Students studying year one only are eligible for a PG Cert, years one and two lead to a PG Diploma, and students completing all three years are eligible for the award of MSc GISc.

Dr Luke Burns is the Programme Manager for this course.

If you have any questions regarding your eligibility, the course content, structure or anything else then please do not hesitate to contact us at: geo-tpg-support@leeds.ac.uk. You may also find our FAQs page useful.

We are running a number of live chat Q&A sessions in which you can talk to the Programme Leader and members of the teaching team. To find out more, and register for an upcoming session, visit our events page.

The overall aim of this programme is to provide students with an engaging open distance learning opportunity.

The programme will provide core GI Science skills training followed by specialist skill development in a range of contemporary domains as selected by the student and an opportunity to undertake a piece of independent original GI Science research under the guidance of a research leader.

The unique selling point of this programme is the choice offered with regards to specialist analytical modules spanning human/physical geography and technical skills.

Year One
You will study a foundational year of four compulsory modules covering core concepts and technical skills in GIScience. After completing these modules, you will be eligible to graduate with a postgraduate certificate.

Year Two
You will be required to study four 15 credit modules from a selection of optional modules. You may choose to focus on developing your technical skills further with modules covering Big Data or digital image processing or you may choose from applied modules covering business and planning, environment, and geodemographics.

Year Three
You will work with your supervisor to complete a 60 credit independent research project – a chance to demonstrate the knowledge and skills you’ve gained and specialise in an area that relates to your career ambitions and interests.

The dissertation project is one of the most satisfying elements of the course. It allows you to apply what you’ve learned to a piece of research focusing on a real-world problem, and it can be used to explore and develop your specific interests.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Modules

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Learning and teaching

You’ll be provided with a variety of online learning materials throughout the programme. You’ll work as part of a virtual online community, discussing the materials online, collaborating in group tasks, participating in group exercises and generally supporting one another.

You’ll also get plenty of one-on-one support. Our qualified tutors are experts in the theory and practice of GIScience and are there to support you and your group. Our tutors will act as mentors and provide you with personal guidance as you progress, advising you on how to make the most of the course and helping you to overcome any obstacles that you encounter. Any work you hand in will be returned to you with detailed comments and advice.

Assessment

All assessment will be conducted via coursework and submitted online. Modules will typically require you to complete a portfolio-style assessment followed by a project which draws upon the skills obtained throughout the module.

Entry requirements

A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) in a relevant subject e.g. Geography, Computer Science, Geology, Earth Science, Environmental Studies or other appropriate numerate/computer science subject. Previous employment /working experience will be considered in lieu of/in addition to qualifications if appropriate.

All applicants will need to have GCSE English Language at grade C or above, or an appropriate English language qualification.

We accept a range of International Qualifications. For more information please contact the Admissions Team.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in listening, speaking and reading and 6.5 in writing.. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English

International students who do not meet the English language requirements for this programme may be able to study our postgraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

This pre-sessional course is designed with a progression route to your degree programme and you’ll learn academic English in the context of your subject area. To find out more, read Language for Science (6 weeks) and Language for Science: General Science (10 weeks). 

If you need to study for longer than 10 weeks, read more about our postgraduate pre-sessional English course.

How to apply

Apply

This link takes you to information on applying for taught programmes and to the University's online application system.
 
If you're unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

If you have more questions specific to the course, you may find our FAQs helpful.

International students

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

Faculty of Environment Taught Postgraduate Admissions Policy 2019

Fees

• UK/EU: £9,000 (total)
• International: £9,000 (total)

Read more about paying fees and charges.

For fees information for international taught postgraduate students, read Masters fees.

Part-time fees are normally calculated based on the number of credits you study in a year compared to the equivalent full-time course. For example, if you study half the course credits in a year, you will pay half the full-time course fees for that year.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more about additional costs

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.  Find out more at Masters funding overview.

This programme centres on the development of specialist intellectual knowledge and skills which are highly vocational and are in high demand from employers, both in the UK and overseas. Numerate and spatial data savvy MSc GISc graduates with programming and software development skills are highly sought after and go into a range of different positions, organisations and roles both in the private and public sector. Popular careers include data analysts, GIS professionals and planners at destinations such as the United Nations, Statistics Agencies, Local Government, Police/Fire Service, Retail Consultancies, Utility companies and more. Many graduates use the skills developed on the programme to seek promotion in their current roles.

Careers support

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.