Geomatics Surveying

The Bachelor of Science in Geomatics Surveying at the University of Cape Town offers students a comprehensive education in the science and technology of measuring, mapping, and managing spatial information. This programme prepares graduates to work in various fields such as land surveying, geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, photogrammetry, and spatial data management. The curriculum combines theoretical fundamentals with practical skills, ensuring students gain expertise in geodesy, cartography, spatial analysis, and digital mapping techniques. Through a blend of classroom instruction, laboratory work, and field training, students develop a strong foundation in the use of cutting-edge surveying equipment and software. The programme emphasizes sustainable development principles, responsible land management, and the ethical considerations involved in spatial data collection and analysis. Students are encouraged to engage in research projects, internships, and collaborations with industry partners to enhance their professional readiness. Graduates of this programme are equipped to contribute effectively to urban planning, environmental monitoring, infrastructure development, and resource management. With a focus on innovation and technological advancement, the programme ensures that students are well-prepared to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global landscape in land and spatial sciences. The University of Cape Town is committed to providing a high-quality education that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills, vital for successful careers in the dynamic field of Geomatics Surveying.

First Year Core Courses

• APG1016F Geomatics I
• CSC1017F Programming for Engineers
• GEO1009F Introduction to Earth and Environmental Sciences
• MAM1020F Mathematics IA for Engineers
• MAM1021S Mathematics I B for Engineers
• STA1000S Introductory Statistics
• Elective

Second Year Core Courses

• APG2014S Geomatics II
• APG2015F Geographic Information Systems I
• APG2016W Surveying I
• APG2017X Basic Survey Camp
• APG2018X Geographic Information Systems Camp
• MAM2083F Vector Calculus for Engineers
• MAM2084S Linear Algebra and DEs for Engineers
• PHY1031F General Physics A
• PHY1032S General Physics B
• APG2019X Practical Training I

Third Year Core Courses

• APG3011S Geographic Information Systems II
• APG3012S Geomatics III
• APG3013F Numerical Methods in Geomatics
• APG3014X Control Survey Camp
• APG3016C Surveying II
• APG3017D Surveying III
• APG3027Z Cadastral Survey & Registration Projects
• APG3033W Land & Cadastral Survey Law
• CON2027F Real Property Law
• APG3015X Practical Training II

Fourth Year Core Courses

• APG3038F Professional Communication Studies
• APG4001S Geodesy
• APG4002Z Land Use Planning & Township Design
• APG4003Z Research Project
• APG4005F Engineering Surveying & Adjustment
• APG4010X Geoinformatics Camp
• APG4011F Geomatics IV
• APG4012S Geomatics Management & Professionalism

• Certified copies of official academic transcripts in ENGLISH (full transcripts for each tertiary institution attended)
• Certified copies of degree certificates in ENGLISH (for each tertiary institution attended where applicable)

International applicants for whom English is a second language are required to submit one of the following:

• a recent score (obtained within 3 - 5 years before application for admission) of at least 570 (paper-based test) or 230 (computer-based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• a recent overall band score of 7.0 (with no individual element of the test scoring below 6.0) on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• or, noting that this may only be written at certain designated venues within South Africa, a score of at least 65% on the university's Placement Test in English for Educational Purposes (PTEEP).

The University of Cape Town offers a comprehensive approach to financing studies for its Geomatics Surveying program, aimed at making higher education accessible and affordable for a diverse range of students. Tuition fees are determined annually and vary depending on the level of study, whether undergraduate or postgraduate. For local students, the university provides a range of funding options including government bursaries, student loans, and scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, or departmental awards. International students are encouraged to explore scholarships offered specifically for international applicants, as well as external funding sources from their home countries or international organizations.

Additionally, the university participates in national financial aid schemes such as the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), which subsidizes tuition and living expenses for eligible South African students. Students are advised to apply early for these schemes, as funding is limited and demand exceeds available resources. The university also provides work-study programs and part-time employment opportunities for students seeking to supplement their income during their studies, with jobs available on campus related to their field of study or administrative support roles.

Private loans and bursaries are also available through various banking institutions and corporate sponsors who partner with the university to support students in technical and scientific disciplines. International students are typically required to demonstrate adequate financial resources when applying for visas and are encouraged to explore scholarship programs and sponsorships from their governments or international development agencies.

The university offers financial guidance and support services to help students navigate the application process for various funding options. These services include financial aid workshops, counseling, and personalized assistance in preparing application materials. Additionally, the university’s fee structure and funding opportunities are regularly updated on its official website, ensuring transparency and aiding prospective students in planning their financial commitments ahead of enrollment.

Studying Geomatics Surveying at UCT not only offers high-quality academic and practical training but also recognizes the importance of financial support in enabling talented students to pursue their career goals without undue financial burden. While the exact costs and funding options may vary each year, the university’s commitment to accessible education remains a cornerstone of its policy to support students financially through a variety of schemes, scholarships, and support services, ensuring that financial circumstances do not hinder academic pursuits in the field of Geomatics Surveying.

The Bachelor of Science in Geomatics Surveying at the University of Cape Town is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed in the fields of geomatics, surveying, and spatial data management. This program integrates theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing graduates to address complex spatial challenges across various industries including urban planning, environmental management, construction, and infrastructure development. The curriculum encompasses a wide range of courses such as geodetic surveying, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), remote sensing, cartography, coastal and hydrographic surveying, as well as computational methods relevant to modern surveying tasks. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, field excursions, and projects that simulate real-world scenarios, fostering competencies in data acquisition, analysis, and visualization. The program emphasizes the importance of technological proficiency, critical thinking, and precision, ensuring graduates can operate advanced surveying equipment, utilize GIS software, and interpret spatial data accurately. Ethical considerations, sustainability, and the impact of surveying practices on society and the environment are also integrated into the curriculum to promote responsible professional conduct. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in government agencies, surveying firms, consulting companies, and international organizations involved in land development, resource management, and environmental conservation. Additionally, the program offers pathways for postgraduate studies for those interested in research or specialization in areas such as geodesy, photogrammetry, or remote sensing. Throughout the course, students develop skills in problem-solving, project management, and interdisciplinary communication, enabling them to contribute effectively to multidisciplinary teams. The University of Cape Town’s commitment to academic excellence and practical training ensures that graduates are highly regarded within the global surveying community.