Geographical Information Systems
MSc
University of Portsmouth

Key Course Facts
Course Description
Overview Geographical Information Systems (GIS) are now a major component of information technology – and if you're interested in pursuing a career in this innovative, exciting field, our MSc Geographical Information Systems (GIS) degree course will give you the tools to succeed.
On this MSc Geographical Information Systems degree course, you'll learn practical GIS skills using the same software tools employed by professionals in the field. You'll analyse spatial data through your own project work and build on your previous geographical studies, creating distinctive methods of data analysis, algorithms and software tools.
Once you graduate, you'll be well placed to pursue a career as a geographical information science specialist within local and national government, health authorities, environment and conservation organisations, or in university-based research.
What you'll experience On this course, you'll:
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Get hands-on experience of using Geographical Information (GI) instruments and emerging technologies, including GPS, Total Stations and 3D laser scanners
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Learn from experts with extensive industrial and consultancy experience and strong research portfolios
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Practise your GIS data collection skills, both in our GIS labs and in the field
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Learn image processing and spatial analysis techniques
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Complete a research report on the GIS topic of your choice, applying the principles of research and design
Careers and opportunities GIS has become an essential part of the world's information infrastructure and the technology is now widely used in utility companies, telecommunications networks, civil engineering, retailing, local and national government, international charities, NGOs, the National Health Service, environmental organisations, banking and finance, and insurance.
What can you do with a Geographical Information Systems degree? When you graduate, you'll be in a strong position to pursue a career in any of these industries and organisations. Many of our previous graduates are now employed all over the world, working on GIS-related projects for organisations including:
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The Environment Agency
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Ordnance Survey
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Environmental consultancies
We'll provide you with as much support as possible in finding employment through close industrial contacts, careers events, recruitment fairs and individual advice.
Entry Requirements / Admissions
Requirements for international students / English requirements
IELTS academic test score (similar tests may be accepted as well)
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- 6.5
- All Degrees
Get advice on which foundation courses are best for you to still study Geographical Information Systems, MSc, if you do not meet the minimum requirements in terms of UCAS score, A levels, or English language requirements.
A second class honours degree or equivalent in Geography, Geology, Earth Science, Applied Geology, Civil Engineering, Environmental Science or a related discipline. Professional experience in a relevant area and other qualifications may be taken into consideration for applicants not meeting this requirement. English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0.
Costs
Average student cost of living in the UK
Rent | £518 |
Water, gas electricity, internet (at home) | £50 |
Supermarket shopping | £81 |
Clothing | £35 |
Eating out | £33 |
Alcohol | £27 |
Takeaways / food deliveries | £30 |
Going out / entertainment (excl.alcohol, food) | £24 |
Holidays and weekend trips | £78 |
Transport within city | £17 |
Self-care / sports | £20 |
Stationary / books | £13 |
Mobile phone / internet | £13 |
Cable TV / streaming | £7 |
Insurance | £51 |
Other | £95 |
Average student cost of living | £1092 |
London costs approx 34% more than average, mainly due to rent being 67% higher than average of other cities. For students staying in student halls, costs of water, gas, electricity, wifi are generally included in the rental. Students in smaller cities where accommodation is in walking/biking distance transport costs tend to be significantly smaller.
University Rankings
Positions of University of Portsmouth in top UK and global rankings.
See all 29 university rankings of University of Portsmouth
About University of Portsmouth
The University of Portsmouth is located on the United Kingdom’s only island city, Portsmouth. This public university, which was previously known as Portsmouth Polytechnic, forms part of the University Alliance, an organisation whose aim is to promote growth and innovation in the UK by putting an emphasis on links with business and industry.
Student composition of University of Portsmouth
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Students by level of study Academic year 2020/21 - Full-time equivalent student enrollments published by Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) on 10 February 2022
- undergraduates:
- 20425
- postgraduates:
- 3930
- Total:
- 24355
List of 504 Bachelor and Master Courses from University of Portsmouth - Course Catalogue
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