Geographic Information Science, BSc (Hons)

About Geographic Information Science, BSc (Hons) - at Newcastle University

Course Overview

This degree focuses on the systems and software for analysing geographic data about the world around us.

At a Glance

UCAS Code
F862

UCAS Institution Name and Code
NEWC, N21

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Degree Awarded
BSc Honours

Course Duration
3 Years

Entry Requirements Icon

Entry Requirements
A Level: ABB
IB: 34 points

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Opportunities
Professionally accredited

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It is highly ICT-orientated and will appeal to students with an interest in technology, computing, mapping, geography and environmental management.

You learn a range of skills such as programming and data collection, and work with technology such as satellite imagery and informatics.

The degree is very hands-on, with plenty of opportunities to use our state-of-the-art software.

This combination of practical skills and specialist knowledge makes our graduates attractive to employers and we have exceptional employment rates.

Highlights of this degree

Professional accreditation

Professional accreditation

This degree is accredited by:

• the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and,
• the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES)

This means that you graduate with a degree that meets the standards set by the industry.

Newcastle is unique in the UK in having this dual accreditation for its geomatics degrees.

What you will study

What you will study

This degree is part of a subject area called geomatics.

Geomatics spans geography, science, mathematics and ICT. It is a fascinating area of study for anyone who has enjoyed these subjects at A level or equivalent.

You are introduced to the subject area through outdoor and computer-based practical work. You learn a wide range of geographic techniques such as:

• land surveying
• GPS
• satellite imagery
• Geographic Information Systems

You also learn the mathematical techniques required to analyse and process geographic data.

You will have opportunities to develop your practical skills, using state-of-the-art equipment, particularly on our residential field course in the Lake District.

Another major aspect of the degree is an independent research project that helps you develop research skills and explore a topic that interests you in depth.

Fieldwork

Fieldwork

You will take part in regular practicals in and around Newcastle, as well having opportunities to attend residential field courses around the UK. These include:

• Stage 1 residential field course in the Lake District where your task will be to map the Borrowdale Valley
• Stage 2 three-day study tour, visiting organisations where GIS is being used, for example, the British Antarctic Survey or British Geological Survey
• Stage 3 eight-day GIS field course, which will include data collection exercises, data analysis and data presentation

Strong industry links

Strong industry links

Newcastle has strong industry links with a variety of companies in the land survey, offshore survey and GIS sectors. This is reflected in the availability of work placements and sponsorship opportunities for our students.

Graduates from our degree are highly sought after by industry:

• our employment and further study rate has averaged 98% over the last three years
• in 2013, graduates' average salary was £34,000

(Destination of Leavers of Higher Education surveys 2012

Entry requirements

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