Geographical Information Systems – (M.Sc.)

Contents

The MSc GIS is part of the MSc programme within the Department of Geography in the Faculty of Science. The taught component of the full-time course is spread over two semesters between the beginning of October and the beginning of June, with unit assessment at the end of each semester. The course itself consists of a combination of taught compulsory units plus option units, and a dissertation.

The structure is modular, based on single units representing the equivalent of 120 hours of study for the MSc single units will attract 15 credit points each. The contact hours for any unit will depend upon the topic and may include lectures, seminars, tutorials and supervised practical work. The balance will consist of directed readings, set practicals and project/essay work. Typically, units will be spread over 11 teaching weeks, but some units may be offered in a more `intensive´ form, for example the equivalent amount of study within a block.

Full-time study

The standard requirement for the award of a Master´s degree is 180 credit points. The total is made up as follows:

Semester 1 - Core units

* Geographic Information Systems 1: 15 credits
* Database Management Systems: 15 credits
* plus 2 option units: 30 credits total

Semester 2 - Core units

* Geographic Information Systems 2: 15 credits
* Geographical Data Analysis: 15 credits
* Research Methods and Design: 15 credits
* plus 1 option unit 15 credits

Dissertation stage

* Dissertation: 60 credits
* or independent study: 75 credits

Total 180 credits

(NB: If the independent study model is opted for this will subsume the semester 2 option unit, for a total of 75 credits.)

Part-time study

The taught component of the part-time degree is normally studied over two years. In the first year, the compulsory core modules are taken, with the exception of the Research Design and Methods course in semester 2. In the second year, the first semester options are taken, and in the second semester, one option and the Research Design unit, assuming the standard dissertation route is to be pursued. dissertation/independent study work continues thereafter.

The practicalities of part-time study are that lectures are arranged for Wednesdays in the first year of study and Tuesday for the second year. We try to avoid starting earlier than 10 o'clock to allow students sufficient travel time, however this cannot be guaranteed. The day is usually finished by 6 o'clock in the evening.

The Diploma

Students who do not wish to proceed to the MSc may be awarded the Diploma on successful completion of the 120 credit taught component of the course, after two semesters of full-time study, or the part-time equivalent.

Unit outlines

Core units

* Geographical Information Systems 1

Beginning with an overview of the development of the GIS field, the first part of this unit continues with an examination of the building blocks of GIS technology, including data sources and data capture, hardware and software tools. The second part deals with vector-based data structures and data management, followed by vector GIS operations, such as overlay and buffering. Students undertake a project to create a GIS of their own which is presented as a seminar session. Practical exercises are undertaken using the MapInfo GIS.

* Geographical Information Systems 2

This unit aims to develop an understanding of raster-based approaches to GIS and related areas of image processing in remote sensing. Topics covered include raster data models and data compression techniques, raster GIS and cartographic modelling, imaging systems and image processing, geometric correction techniques, and GIS / remote sensing integration in the raster domain. Practical work utilizes MapInfo, ArcMap and ERDAS Imagine.

* Database Management Systems

Throughout this unit there is a major focus on the use of industry-standard methods and tools, to develop competence in the successive stages of database design, development and implementation, in a GIS context. An introduction to data analysis techniques is followed by an examination of alternative types of database system and the rules of relational database design. There is extensive treatment of the SQL query language in standard databases and for attribute query within a GIS Advanced topics introduced in the later part of the unit include database programming and computer-aided database design. Practical work utilizes the ORACLE relational database management system, running in full client-server mode.

* Geographical Data Analysis

This unit aims to develop a general, inferential, model based approach to the analysis of quantitative data within a geographical framework. A range of underlying concepts are examined, including model specification, bias, linearity, robustness and spatial autocorrelation. These are subsequently developed in the context of a unified framework for analysis. Practical work is based on ArcGIS - ArcMap.

* Research Methods and Design

The aim of this unit is to introduce the basic principles of research design and methodology and to develop a critical approach to the selection and evaluation of appropriate methods for different types of research problem.

Option units

* Management and Implementation of GIS

This module has an integrating function, bringing together a number of the theoretical and practical issues identified in the core units, in the context of `real world´ organisations and application areas. A range of topics are addressed, such as national policies for GIS data, system planning and implementation, and GIS costs and benefits. These are complemented by case studies of application areas and major organisations using GIS Examples of the former include resource and facilities management, and of the latter, the Ordnance Survey and the Food and Agriculture organisation of the UN. Contributions to the course are made both by teaching staff and outside speakers.

* Terrain Modelling

The first part of this unit is concerned with photogrammetric data capture, air cameras and camera calibration. Analytical and digital techniques for photogrammetric analysis are then considered, together with orthophotography and aerial triangulation. The use of photogrammetry for capture of digital elevation data leads into a broader examination of the data structures and algorithms used in digital terrain modelling. Practical work may utilize a KERN DSR-l4 analytical stereoplotter with a PC-based editing workstation, and Leica Photogrammetric Suite (LPS) or Socket Set for digital analysis of scanned photography.

* The Use of Historical Maps in GIS

This unit explores the value of historical maps in GIS and aims to develop an appreciation of maps as a data source. Particular attention is given to issues of data reliability and precision. Lectures cover topics such as:- The evaluation of cartography 1500-1900, Tithe survey in England and Wales, The development of Ordnance Survey mapping 1790-present, Exemplification of computer-assisted techniques in handling historical maps, The use of historical air photography and Deconstruction theory and historical maps. The assessment for this unit is based on project work.

* The dissertation

The dissertation is undertaken between June and September on the full-time programme. It provides an opportunity to pursue a particular topic to a greater depth than is possible within the taught syllabus. The dissertation can take a variety of forms, e.g. GIS-based analysis of original data sources and digital datasets, case studies of GIS adoption in public or private sector organisations, the development of new software tools/applications, or the design of GIS algorithms. The final submission takes the form of an extended written report.

* The independent study model for dissertation submission

The broad aims of this approach to the dissertation are similar to the standard model, with the additional requirement that experience is gained in the preparation of the results of independent work in a form suitable for publication. The final dissertation therefore takes the form of a research paper appropriate for submission to a journal, accompanied by a technical background report. The additional work required for this type of independent study is reflected in the higher weighting given to it, in comparison to the standard model.

* Induction course

At the beginning of the first semester, a short induction course is provided to introduce incoming students to University library and computing facilities.

* Supplementary programme in Geomatics

Following discussions with the course or unit coordinators, students who lack background in specific areas of the mapping sciences, will have the opportunity to attend additional lectures in these areas, on a non-assessed basis.