On-campus and fully online distance learning Full-time and Part-time. PgCert/PgDip/MSc Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

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1 PgCert/PgDip/MSc Geographic Information Systems (GIS) On-campus and fully online distance learning Full-time and Part-time PgCert/PgDip/MSc Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

2 The Programme: In recent years the benefits of using geo-spatial data have become more widely understood among both government and business. In parallel, the need for GIS professionals has grown steadily across a wide range of sectors. Our course is designed to provide a broad-based education in the principles and practice of GIS, and is suitable both for people who want to enter GIS employment for the first time, and those already in GI-related jobs who want to broaden and deepen their GIS knowledge and skills. The course is offered both on campus and by fully online distance learning, and may be taken by either part-time or full-time study. The uses of GIS are very diverse, and include data management, spatial analysis and decision making within a wide range of disciplines and sectors, such as environmental management and conservation, resource management, emergency service planning, health care provision, land use planning and urban development, the utilities, transport planning, geo-demographics and retail. Increasing uptake of GIS and associated techniques and technologies means that there is a growing demand for both GI specialists (including analysts, technicians, developers, managers, sales people and support) and for specialists in other fields who have added GIS to their skill set. Study for a Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert), Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) or a Master of Science (MSc) Degree: The PgDip is made up of eight modules, while the Masters comprises the PgDip modules together with an independent research project. Students who do not want to study for a PgDip or MSc may take the award of PgCert after completion of four modules, or simply enrol for individual modules. The PgCert takes 3-4 months full-time or 8 months part-time; The PgDip takes 8 months full-time or 2 academic years part-time; The MSc takes 12 months full-time or 3 academic years part-time.

3 Entry Requirements and Progression Entry to the PgDip: Applicants are generally expected to have a minimum 2(ii) Honours degree with a substantial component of Geography, Environmental Science or Computing, although candidates with qualifications in other relevant subjects will be considered on an individual basis. Candidates without the standard academic qualifications will also be considered based on significant relevant work experience; in such cases, previous experience of GIS will be an advantage, and should be explained in detail on the application form. English language requirements: If English is not your first language, we recognise a number of language tests designed to measure the proficiency of non-native speakers. The majority of international students will submit scores in either British Council IELTS or the American TOEFL test. The minimum acceptable scores in these tests are as follows: IELTS 6.0 (minimum score of 5.5 in individual bands) TOEFL 550 (or equivalent in the computer or internet-based tests) Entry to the MSc: Students initially register for the Postgraduate Diploma. On completion, students have the option of graduating with the PgDip or transferring to the Masters. Fees Course fees are calculated on a credit point basis depending on the number of modules you study. There is a price per credit point and this is multiplied by the number of credits for a particular module. You pay for the modules you study in each academic year, and payment for each year can be spread over 5 equal payments. You can find out more detailed information on the applicable fees at: Course Requirements Distance learning students need a well specified PC or laptop and a broadband connection. Those resident within Ireland and the UK are provided with copies of the core GIS and remote sensing software required; other students must obtain their own copies of ArcGIS (student licences are available at reduced cost but vary in price depending on your country of residence). You will be expected to buy a small number of textbooks during your course, but the majority of reading material is available free of charge via the University s electronic library resources.

4 Modules (See online course description for further details of content, order and timing) Postgraduate Diploma Core Modules (GI Industry strand) Principles of GIS (EGM credits) introduces the theory and practice of Geographic Information Systems. Lecturebased teaching of key concepts is reinforced by linked practical exercises using ArcGIS. The module assumes no prior knowledge of GIS. Spatial Data Management (EGM credits) builds on the knowledge and practical skills gained in EGM711 to provide students with further experience in the acquisition, management, manipulation and analysis of spatial data, incorporating extensive practice in ArcGIS. Remote Sensing (EGM credits) aims to give students a thorough understanding of digital remote sensing and analysis techniques, exploring the theoretical principles of the discipline and supported by the industry standard remote sensing software package ERDAS Imagine. GIS in Business and Society (EGM credits) introduces GIS relevant management and decision making concepts in Business and Society. Planning, design, error handling, decision support techniques and advanced spatial analysis are examined within the overall implementation of GIS projects. Programming for GIS (EGM credits) provides an introduction to programming for GIS on the web using HTML, CSS and JavaScript, and introduces a basic set of programming fundamentals such as web pages, system design and GIS applications. Spatial Analysis and Modelling (EGM credits) introduces students to concepts of spatial data analysis and modelling, including quantifying clustering and autocorrelation and understanding the impact of scale and aggregation on area-based analysis. GIS Databases (EGM credits) provides an insight into both small scale and large scale relational spatial database management systems, incorporating Access to aid in the design and development of Entity Relational (ER) models typically employed in small organisations, and MySQL, used to introduce students Structured Query Language and Spatial Query Languages. All students also choose one optional module (see overleaf).

5 Postgraduate Diploma Modules: Options All students choose ONE of the following options to complete the PgDip. GIS for Health and Social Science (EGM credits) aims to provide an appreciation and understanding of the benefits of GIS in the context of health and health care and socio-economic analysis, and to give the opportunity to develop relevant technical and analytical skills. The module is designed to help prepare students for undertaking the Masters. GIS for Environmental Management (EGM credits) builds on the breadth of knowledge developed earlier in the course in relation to spatial analysis, providing theoretical background and practical skills relevant to environmental modelling and management. The research focus helps prepare students for undertaking the Masters. Customising GIS Applications (EGM credits) aims to introduce students to the concept of developing specialised GIS for a specific application. The module seeks to develop programming skills using Python and ESRI ModelBuilder. GIS Work Experience (EGM credits) gives students the opportunity to engage in a short GI-related placement (subject to availability), complementing their academic education with experience of working in a professional environment and helping prepare them for employment. GIS Workplace Project (EGM credits) gives students who are already in employment the opportunity to apply knowledge and skills obtained through taught modules and experiential learning in a professional setting. Master of Science On completion of the PgDip, students may proceed to the Masters course, which requires completion of an independent research project (EGM701). Postgraduate Diploma Core Modules: Environment strand Students opting for the environment strand enrol for EGM711, EGM712, EGM713, EGM716, EGM717, ONE GIS option and ONE of Biodiversity Management (EGM801) or Environmental Impact Assessment (EGM804). EGM801 and EGM804 are available by distance learning only, and run alternate years contact Course Director for details.

6 Key Features: Study to PgCert, PgDip or MSc level Modules can be taken in standalone mode Available both on-campus and by fully online distance learning Can be taken part-time or full-time Flexibility to transfer between courses and modes Strong focus on employable and professional skills Extensive hands-on practice with key software Entirely assessed by coursework no formal examinations Established course with excellent reputation and feedback Accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences ( If you have any queries relating to the course, please contact: Dr Sally Cook (Course Director) School of Environmental Sciences University of Ulster, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) Fax: +44 (0) Mrs Linda Allen (Course Secretary) School of Environmental Sciences University of Ulster, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) Fax: +44 (0) Information on fees, course structure and how to apply is available by following the link for Postgraduate at: This leaflet is prepared in advance of the academic year to which it relates. The University of Ulster offers the information contained in it as a guide only. While we make every effort to check the accuracy of the factual content at the time of drafting, some changes will inevitably have occurred in the interval between publication and commencement of the relevant academic year. We reserve the right to make changes to programmes when such action is reasonably considered to be necessary in the context of our wider purpose. University of Ulster, October 2012