Geographic Information Science BSc Honours
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Course overview
Geographic Information Science BSc is a highly practical degree. You’ll work with satellite imagery and informatics to collect, analyse and visualise location-based information. Throughout the course,
you'll work with the latest industry software, technology and tools
. Along with our other teaching methods, this will helpdevelop your skills in programming and data collection
.This accredited degree has a large focus on
information and communications technology (ICT)
. It’s a part of our Geospatial subject area. It’s a fascinating subject for anyone who enjoyed and excelled in:
Find out more about Geospatial Surveying, Mapping & GIS at Newcastle University.
During Year 3, you can take an
optional year in industry in the UK or abroad
. This opportunity offers invaluable experience in the sector, which will help build your industry knowledge and expertise.This experience highlights our graduates as attractive job candidates in the industry. This is reflected in our exceptional graduate employment rates.
Our course work reflects the current challenges engineers are facing in the real world. Our staff work closely with the industry, so you can be prepared to address these challenges once you graduate.
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Your course and study experience - disclaimers and terms and conditions
Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the programmes, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to Covid-19.
View our Academic experience page, which gives information about your Newcastle University study experience for the academic year 2022-23.
See our terms and conditions and student complaints information, which gives details of circumstances that may lead to changes to programmes, modules or University services.
Program Outline
Modules and learning
Modules
The information below is intended to provide an example of what you will study.
Most degrees are divided into stages. Each stage lasts for one academic year, and you'll complete modules totalling 120 credits by the end of each stage.
Our teaching is informed by research. Course content may change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.
Optional module availability
Student demand for optional modules may affect availability.
Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.
To find out more please see our terms and conditions.
Stage 1
Stage 2
Stage 3
You’ll learn the fundamentals of:
You’ll also use data science and code (Python) to process and analyse geospatial data.
This year is very hands on.
You’ll have plenty of opportunities to use our state-of-the-art equipment, particularly on ourresidential field course in the Lake District
.
Modules
| Compulsory Modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| Mapping Fieldcourse | 20 |
| Geographic Information Systems | 10 |
| Surveying | 20 |
| An Introduction to GNSS and its Applications | 10 |
| Principles of Remote Sensing | 10 |
| Tutorial Study Skills for Geospatial Engineering | 10 |
| Data Science 1 | 10 |
| Geospatial Mathematics and Statistics | 30 |
How you'll learn
How you'll be assessed
During stage 2, we’ll focus on:
advanced studies in GIS
, such as 3D visualisation, spatial analysis, and network modellingdata science
andPython
to handle large data sets in databasesdigital data
collected from laser scanners and dronesmodelling the Earth
, including coordinate systems
Modules
| Compulsory Modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| Professional Practice | 10 |
| Geographic Information Systems: Theory and Application | 10 |
| Map Projections and Geodetic Datums | 10 |
| Applied Remote Sensing and Image Processing | 10 |
| Geospatial Engineering Practice and Research | 10 |
| Data Science 2 | 10 |
| Digital Data Acquisition | 20 |
| Geospatial Data Analysis I | 10 |
| Foundations of Data Science | 20 |
| Law and Land Use | 10 |
How you'll learn
How you'll be assessed
Your final year will start with a field course, where you’ll explore a
real-world sustainable planning scenario
.You’ll learn about new technologies which are being used in web-based mapping, such as Google Maps and OpenStreetMap. We’ll also look at industry examples of advanced geospatial analysis and modelling.
Throughout your final year, you’ll
develop an independent research project
. This will be your chance to apply the geospatial techniques you’ve learnt throughout the course.
Modules
| Compulsory Modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| Professional Practice | 10 |
| Applied Remote Sensing and Image Processing | 10 |
| GIS Fieldcourse | 20 |
| Geohazards and Deformation of the Earth | 10 |
| Geospatial Informatics | 10 |
| Applied Geospatial Data Handling | 10 |
| Individual Research Project | 30 |
| Law and Land Use | 10 |
| Optional Modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| Treatment of Waste Water | 10 |
| GNSS Theory and Practice | 10 |
| Engineering Ethics and Sustainability | 10 |
| Subsurface Investigations | 10 |
| Hydraulics | 10 |
How you'll learn
How you'll be assessed
Information about these graphs
We base these figures and graphs on the most up-to-date information available to us. They combine data on the planned delivery and assessments of our courses in 2021-22 with data on the modules chosen by our students in 2020-21.
Teaching time is made up of:
Teaching and assessment
Teaching methods
You'll study six modules per semester. Each module involves two one-hour lectures per week. You’ll also complete several field and computer based practical’s during the semester. Each of these will be three-hours long.
You will have an estimated 20 - 25 hours of contact time per week.
Other teach methods will include:
Lectures:
Including guest lectures from visiting geospatial professionalsPractical work:
Supervised computer-based and outdoor practical work with guidance from expert staffProject work:
To help you develop real-world business skills such as teamworking and project managementIndustry visits:
Explore geospatial applications in actionField courses:
Intensive residential programmes to consolidate your knowledgeAssessment methods
You'll be assessed through a combination of:
Assessments
Assignments – written or fieldwork
Case studies
Coursework
Dissertation or research project
Essays
Examinations – practical or online
Group work
Practical sessions
Presentations
Projects
Reports
Skills and experience
Practical skills
This degree is very hands-on and you'll take part in regular practical projects in and around Newcastle. These practical’s will be based in the field and in our computer labs, using the latest software and field equipment. You’ll also have opportunity to take part in residential field courses across the UK.
In your
first year
, you'll head to the Lake District to map the Borrowdale Valley.In your
second year
, you’ll visit geospatial industry partners to see surveying, mapping and GIS in action.Your
final year
will include an eight-day field course where you'll put all the skills and knowledge you've learned to the test.Research skills
You'll undertake independent research as part of your
final year project
, this will help you to develop your research skills further and dig deeper into a topic that interests you.Overview:
Newcastle University is a public research university located in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. It is known for its high-quality research and teaching, and its commitment to social justice and engagement.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to students, including: *
Careers Service:
Provides guidance and support with career planning, job applications, and internships. *Library:
Offers extensive resources, including books, journals, databases, and study spaces. *Student Support:
Provides a variety of services to help students succeed, including academic support, counseling, and disability services. *Accommodation:
Offers a range of on-campus accommodation options, including halls of residence and self-catered apartments. *Sport:
Provides access to a variety of sports facilities and activities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Newcastle University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can get involved in a wide range of clubs and societies, attend events and lectures, and enjoy the city's nightlife and cultural attractions.
Key Reasons to Study There:
High-quality research and teaching:
Newcastle University is consistently ranked highly in national and international league tables.Strong focus on employability:
The university has a strong track record of preparing graduates for successful careers.Vibrant and diverse campus community:
Students can enjoy a welcoming and supportive environment.Excellent location:
Newcastle is a thriving city with a rich history and culture.Academic Programs:
Newcastle University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across a variety of disciplines, including: *
Science, Agriculture & Engineering
*Humanities & Social Sciences
*Medical Sciences
Other:
- The university has a strong commitment to sustainability and social justice.
- It is home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the Centre for Ageing and Inequalities and the Centre for Data.
- Newcastle University is a member of the Russell Group, a group of 24 leading research-intensive universities in the UK.
Entry requirements and offers
All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements and offers below apply to 2023 entry.
| A-Level | |
|---|---|
|
BBB excluding General Studies and Critical Thinking. Preference will be given to applicants with mathematical, science-based or geography A Levels. For Biology, Chemistry and Physics A Levels, we require a pass in the practical element. GCSE Mathematics grade B or 6 required if not offered at A or AS Level. |
|
| International Baccalaureate | |
|---|---|
|
32 points. Standard Level Mathematics or Mathematical Studies required at grade 5 if not offered at Higher Level. |
|
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What is a contextual offer? Find out more and if you’re eligible for this or our PARTNERS Programme supported entry route.
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International Pathway Courses are specialist programmes designed for international students who want to study in the UK. We provide a range of study options for international students in partnership with INTO.
Find out more about International Pathway Courses
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This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University. It is intended to provide information about our admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.
Credit transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can allow you to convert existing relevant university-level knowledge, skills and experience into credits towards a qualification. Find out more about the RPL policy which may apply to this course.
