Geographical Information Systems and Science

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There are two MSc programmes in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) at Kingston:

* Applied Geographical Information Systems MSc a mixed mode course with an 'applications' focus, which is taught partly by distance learning and partly in class
* Geographical Information Systems and Science MSc taught entirely by distance learning using our online course materials (the duration of this course is a minimum of two years and maximum of 6 years)

The two MSc programmes in GIS both operate within Kingston University's modular course system, each comprising eight taught modules and a research project. The courses have been designed to provide a flexible learning environment to suit all needs, whether you prefer face-to-face contact or are currently in employment and wish to take a non-contact course to study in your own time.

What will I study?

The GIS MSc programmes at Kingston University provide the high quality education needed to meet the needs of users of geotechnology or those seeking to enter a career in GIS. Students will gain a high level of competency in the principles of GI Science and the use of geotechnology; they will be able to routinely use professional software for data acquisition, handling, exploration and mapping.

Knowledge and skills in spatial analysis and spatial databases will provide students with the skills to develop GIS in addition to working with GIS in a range of environments for crime mapping, health analysis, hurricane prediction, 3d modelling and animation and many more.

The GIS MSc programmes have a number of key overarching features. You will:

* develop a knowledge and understanding of the principles of GI science and the use of geotechnology;
* understand the conceptual foundations of geographical information handling;
* effectively handle spatial entities for data transformations, generalisation and aggregation;
* develop competency in analytical operations, methods and spatial analyses;
* effectively implement principles of map design and graphical representation techniques;
* understand spatial database systems and application design;
* perform storage and retrieval operations, work with alternative data models, 3D modelling and advanced visualisation;
* explore the role of GIS in society including organisational and institutional aspects;
* study a range of themes in geography and environmental science; and
* prepare yourself for employment, career advancement, further research and lifelong learning by developing your intellectual, problem solving, technical and other key professional and academic skills.

Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list. For more information, visit the Centre for GIS.

Core modules

* Geographical Information Fundamentals
* Spatial Information Analysis and Modelling
* Contemporary Issues in GIS
* Digital Mapping
* Spatial Databases
* Research Methods and Data Analysis
* Research Methods
* Dissertation

Applied GIS option modules (choose three)

* Biodiversity and Conservation
* Geoweb Applications
* GIS and Hazards
* Mobile GIS
* Mineral and Energy Resources
* Remote Sensing of the Environment
* Sustainable Environmental Management
* Water Resource Management
* Waste Management and Contaminated Land Remediation

GI Systems and Science option modules (choose two)

* Remote Sensing
* GeoVisualisation
* Geodemographic Analysis
* Spatial Databases
* Mobile GIS
* GIS and Health
* GIS Programming
* GIS and Hazards
* Location Enabled Web Applications
* Location Enabled Web Services

The Applied Geographical Information Systems MSc and the Geographical Information Systems and Science MSc courses are open to both those fresh from their undergraduate studies and those already in employment. Both are also available in full-time mode (one year) or part-time mode (two years).Successful applicants will be expected to have either: * a good honours degree awarded by a British or approved overseas university. Normally the degree level should be at second class honours level or higher and contain one or more aspects from the GIS, Geographical, Earth, Environmental, Computer or Biological Sciences as the major field(s) of study; or * for those without formal undergraduate qualifications, be able to demonstrate extensive work experience or career development in the field of GIS.All applicants will be expected to show strong ability and motivation to work at MSc level and, crucially, a commitment to the discipline of GI Science and Systems.International applicantsOverseas students whose first language is not English are required to have passed a recognised English language examination: * TOEFL minimum score of 570 plus TOEFL written test at Grade 5 or above * TOEFL computer based test minimum score of 230 * British Council IELTS test: Band 6.5 or above (including written component at Band 6.0 or above) * Cambridge Proficiency in English: grades A to C.International students on the Applied Geographical Information Systems MSc course will have the opportunity to attend pre-sessional language courses if necessary. Applications from overseas students for the distance-learning Geographical Information Systems and Science MSc are encouraged, but instruction is in English so students will still be required to have attained the English language qualifications above.The Applied Geographical Information Systems MSc and the Geographical Information Systems and Science MSc courses are open to both those fresh from their undergraduate studies and those already in employment. Both are also available in full-time mode (one year) or part-time mode (two years). English Language Requirements CAE score: (read more) Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) is part of the Cambridge English suite and is targeted at a high level (IETLS 6.5-8.0). It is an international English language exam set at the right level for academic and professional success. Developed by Cambridge English Language Assessment - part of the University of Cambridge - it helps you stand out from the crowd as a high achiever. 75 (Grade B)