Course details

Summary

This master's degree provides an interdisciplinary approach to geographic information science (GIS), including taught papers and supervised research. Master of Geographic Information Science (MGIS) graduates will have advanced knowledge in geographic information science, with the ability to study independently, carry out original research; and plan, execute and present the finding of applied GIS projects. Graduates from this programme should be qualified to work as GIS professionals in research, government and industry.

What this qualification covers

The Master of Geographic Information Science is a two-year (full-time) research master's programme, which is comprised of coursework and a research thesis. Students need to complete the coursework as per the Postgraduate Diploma in Geographic Information Science, as well as an additional master's thesis (GISC591) in the second half of their study.

Qualification structure

You must complete 120 points from Pathway 1 or Pathway 2, research papers and thesis.

Pathway 1:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Geographic Information Sciences (120 points)

Pathway 2:

You complete 120 points from the following papers :

• GISC401: Foundations of Geographic Information Science (15 points)
• GISC402: Geographic Information Science Research (15 points)
• GISC403: Cartography and Geovisualisation (15 points)
• GISC404: Geospatial Analysis (15 points)
• GISC405: GIS Programming and Databases (15 points) (Prerequisite: P COMP 102 or equivalent)
• GISC406: Remote Sensing for Earth Observation (15 points)
• GISC410: Special Topic (15 points)
• GISC411: Geographic Information Science in Health (15 points)
• GISC412: Spatial Algorithms and Programming for GIS (15 points) (Prerequisite: P COMP 102 or equivalent)
• GISC413: Special Topic - Geomatic Data Acquisition Techniques (15 points)
• GISC415: GIS Internship Semester One (15 points) or GISC425: GIS Internship Semester Two (15 points)
• GISC416: Special Topic - Conservation GIS (15 points)

And Thesis:

• GISC591: Master in Geographic Information Science Thesis (120 points)

Teaching method

Teaching for the MGIS will be by a combination of residential block papers, face-to-face online lectures, seminars, tutorials and computer practical sessions. This programme is designed to develop world-class qualifications drawing on the significant skills and knowledge of expert staff from AUT, University of Canterbury, Victoria University of Wellington, as well as professionals from the industry.

Career opportunities

There is currently a shortage of qualified GIS specialists in New Zealand and more widely. Organisations in many areas need GIS professionals who can integrate GIS with their core business. As a result, there are many exciting opportunities for graduates.

Entry criteria

• Have an undergraduate degree (or approved equivalent - such as via relevant professional experience - ad eundum status), normally with a B average or higher
• Show the ability for postgraduate study
• Have completed at least two undergraduate courses in GIS, at least one of which should be at 300-level or above.

In exceptional circumstances, students may be approved by the MGIS Director for entry to the programme without two undergraduate courses in GIS, if they have significant relevant work experience which serves as adequate preparation for the programme

English Language requirements:

Minimum IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 overall with all bands 6.0 or higher; TOEFL iBT score of 90; Certificate in English for Academic Study (CertEAS) with A grade; GIE with B+ grade; CAE minimum overall score of 176; PTE minimum overall score of 58.