What is Geoinformatics?
Geoinformatics is a branch of Environmental Sciences, which is dedicated to the scientific substantiation, design, creation, operation and use of geographic information systems and the development of geoinformation technologies.
The list of the main tasks of geoinformatics includes:
- Creating and managing geodatabases (geocoding)
- Geodata Analysis and modeling
- Software development for the first two tasks
- Computer-aided cartography.
Entry requirements for Geo-Information and Spatial Planning applicants
Geo-Information and Spatial Planning applicants for a bachelor study program need to have high grades in Geography and other Materials disciplines, such as Physics and Mathematics. Some relevant experience in computing or IT area will be an advantage for many study programs, for some study programs it is necessary. Some European or American universities ask foreign students to complete at least one year of relevant undergraduate degree before applying for the university.
English proficiency is a mandatory requirement for all applicants for Geo-information and Spatial Planning degree, either undergraduate or graduate - all study programs in Geo-information and Spatial Planning which can be found on our website are taught in English. Those applicants whose native language is other from English need to pass a language certification, such as TOEFL or IELTS. Some information about which certification to choose can be found here.
Entry requirements for a Master study programs are usually more strict. Applicants need to complete a bachelor degree in Geo-Information and Spatial Planning or relevant area (for example, informatics, IT, geology or environmental sciences) with high GPA scores. A relevant work experience or specific motivation will also be an advantage. Those applicants who have already completed a degree in English usually do not have to pass the language certification again.
Note that many popular countries have their own requirements for international applicants. These requirements for some countries, for example, UK or USA, can be found on our website.
Study program structure
Usually Geo-Information and Spatial Planning is taught as a Master degree, but Bachelor study programs are also common. A Master study program in this area lasts from one to two years. The curriculum consists of lectures, seminars and practical lessons in the following disciplines - Geospatial Information Technology, Spatial Data Infrastructure, GI Technology and Information Systems, Geovisualisation. Bachelor study programs are usually less specific - first years of undergraduate education are dedicated to basic courses in Data Science, Geology, Management and Computer Science. During the last years courses become more specific, and students choose their specialisation.
A degree (both undergraduate and graduate) can be completed with a project or research work, students work on it during all education period.