Spatial Science Research

The program is a postgraduate level research program in the fields of geodesy, surveying, photogrammetry, land management, geographic information systems or spatial science education.

The program is intended to allow students to enhance and extend their knowledge of a particular surveying or geographic information systems discipline area. The aim of the degree is to produce graduates who are skilled in spatial science investigation, evaluation and synthesis. Students who successfully complete the Master of Spatial Science Research should be able to demonstrate:

• strong communication skills

• a broad knowledge of the general discipline area of spatial science at an advanced level

• an extensive and detailed knowledge of one significant aspect of spatial science at a level that allows for the proposal and evaluation of innovative solutions to complex technical problems in that area

• an exhaustive knowledge of, and ability to access, sources of information about spatial science

• an ability to utilise sound research methodology and experimental design in an investigative study

• an awareness of the practical application(s), and the implications for professionals, of the research work that has been undertaken

• a high standard of written and verbal English language communication skill.

The Master of Spatial Science involves a minimum of either three semesters of full-time research or six semesters of part-time research at the conclusion of which a candidate prepares and submits for examination, a thesis in research or design. Research topics are selected from areas of geodesy, surveying, photogrammetry, land management, geographic information systems (GIS) or spatial science education.

Program completion requirements

The Master of Spatial Science is comprised of 12 units of study, consisting of one unit of coursework and an 11 unit research project and dissertation.

Students will be required to complete the course ENG8001 Masters Dissertation A to satisfy the coursework component of the program.

For administrative purposes students will enrol in a selection of the courses listed below in order to complete the 11 unit research dissertation. The 11 units of research will be composed of individual courses ranging in size from one to four units. This provides students with the opportunity to undertake the program in either part-time or full-time mode. Full-time students normally enrol in four units for each term in which they engage in research activities. Part-time students normally enrol in two units for each term in which they engage in research activities.

Programs may be varied to suit the needs of individual students. Enrolment in the above courses is used to assess eligibility for scholarships and awards, and to levy program fees where appropriate, so it is important to consult with the Associate Dean (Research) when finalising enrolment for this program.

All of the courses listed below are ungraded courses, i.e. successful completion will be indicated by a Satisfactory Progress grade.

Some candidates may be required to complete additional coursework, up to a maximum of four single-unit courses, in areas relevant to their proposed field of study. The coursework requirements for each student will be determined by the Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences in consultation with the student.. Candidates would be expected to demonstrate a high level of achievement in any additional coursework courses.

Required time limits

Full-time students have a maximum of three years to complete this program. Part-time students have a maximum of six years to complete this program.
A pro-rata adjustment of the maximum time period will apply for those students who transfer from one mode of study to another. A pro-rata reduction in the maximum time period will apply to students who are admitted to a program with advanced standing.

Entry to this program will be restricted to students who have demonstrated a high level of ability at the undergraduate level, or who, in pursuit of their occupation or by other means, have demonstrated their ability to successfully undertake studies at this level. Specifically, candidates shall normally be considered for admission to a quota place in the Master of Spatial Science if they either:hold a graduate diploma or four-year bachelor degree in surveying, geomatics, science, urban and regional planning or engineering awarded by Australian university, or an equivalent qualification awarded by an overseas institutionhave demonstrated a high level of academic performance in these studies orhold a three-year bachelors degree in science, geographic information systems or related field of study awarded by an Australian university, or an equivalent qualification awarded by an overseas institutionhave demonstrated a high level of academic performance in their undergraduate studieshave completed a qualifying program of spatial science studies approved by the Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences achieving a GPA of 5.0 or more in those studiesorhave worked as a professional in the field of spatial science for a period of not less than five years and can provide documentary evidence, such as technical publications, that satisfies the Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences that advanced knowledge has been acquiredsuccessfully complete an interview conducted by the Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences or his/her nominee to assess the candidate's chance of success in the program.International candidates for admission into this program must meet the University's English language proficiency requirements for postgraduate students. Please refer to Section 2.2.3 of the Admissions Policy . English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6 TOEFL paper-based test score : 550 TOEFL iBT® test: 80