Program Overview

Course Description

Geodesy is the science of measuring and representing the earth's surface while taking its curvature into account. These surveys usually cover large areas and measurements are taken to high levels of accuracy. Results of such measurements are usually presented on a map or three-dimensional digital model. To do this effectively requires an accurate determination of the shape and size of a geometrical mathematical model of the earth and its magnetic field. Geodetic Surveying is concerned with the application of geodetic concepts in practical surveying contexts.

The purpose of this course is to provide the student with an understanding of the principles involved in determining the size and shape of the earth, and from these data represent geodetic position on the earth's surface in various formats.

The course also provides the student with the necessary knowledge and skills to plan, undertake, and critically review Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) survey networks in accordance with appropriate national standards, and combine these with conventional terrestrial observations. Map projections are examined to demonstrate the presentation of geodetic data in a useable format and to provide a framework for smaller-scale surveys.

Topics

• Geometrical Geodesy
• Physical Geodesy
• Computations on the ellipsoid
• Computations on Grid Projections
• Coordinate transformations
• Ground-based coordinate systems
• GNSS observation principles
• Post-processed GNSS Surveying Systems
• Planning and design of GNSS Surveys
• Field procedures
• Reduction and adjustment

Availability

The course is available at the following locations:

• Toowoomba: External - Trimester 1
• Springfield: On Campus - Trimester 1

Course Contacts

• Chris McAlister: Course Coordinator

Enrolment Rules

Course Pre-requisites

• SVY3105: Error Analysis and Adjustment (1 Unit)
• OR
• SVY2105: Survey Computations B (1 Unit)
• AND
• SVY1110: Introduction to Global Navigation Satellite Systems (1 Unit)

Definitions

• Prerequisite: A course you must complete before enrolling in another course.
• Corequisite: A course that you need to take at the same time as another course, or before it.
• Anti-requisite: A course that has very similar content to another course.

Course Requirements

• Mandatory attendance: All students must attend a mandatory residential school in Toowoomba.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, graduates will be able to:

1. Demonstrate advanced theoretical, conceptual, and technical knowledge of geodetic surveying concepts by analysing and solving a wide range of complex geodetic problems;
2. Select and apply advanced cognitive methods and technologies to generate and transmit solutions to an extensive range of complex calculations and transformations involving various geodetic datums and coordinate systems;
3. Accurately communicate information to others in the context of transmitting solutions to authentic practical scenarios, and describing and debating current professional practices;
4. Apply knowledge and skills to execute and critically analyse survey control networks in accordance with appropriate standards using a combination of conventional terrestrial, and real-time and post processed GNSS observations;
5. Adapt conventional concepts, theories, and processes to construct and critically analyse innovative new coordinate systems and debate their use in practical surveying applications;

Program Level

• Undergraduate

Course Level

• 3000 Bachelor Degree; Advanced Course and Assessment Level

Mandatory Residential School

• Yes

Student Contribution Band

• Band 2

Fees

Refer to the University's fee schedule for current information.