Geographical Information Systems and Science – (M.Sc.)

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.