Program Overview

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Why Study with Us?

Join an established course with excellent reputation and feedback.

Get support and advice from experienced lecturers, tutors, librarians, e-learning and IT staff.

Access online resources such as e-books, digital lectures and podcasts, discussion boards and video-conference tools all within a dedicated e-learning platform.

Develop and improve your employability, professional and academic skills and gain extensive hands-on practice with key software.

Obtain free student copies of GIS, remote sensing and statistical software.

Be assessed entirely by coursework – there are no formal examinations.

Pay your fees by instalments.

With a fully online course, you can study from almost anywhere and there is no need to travel to classes.

You can study part-time or full-time and choose the times you study each week to suit yourself.

Substantial relevant work experience may be accepted in place of standard entry requirements.

Study for a Master’s degree, a PG Diploma, PG Certificate or enrol for individual modules.

Our students come from a wide range of backgrounds, but broadly speaking fall into two groups.

New or recent graduates wanting to enter GIS-related employment for the first time, or to add GIS to their skill-set to enhance their employability or change career.

People who are already in GIS-related employment but want to broaden and deepen their GIS knowledge and skills with a view to making better use of GIS or improving their career and promotion prospects.

Graduate feedback and employment rates show that our course caters very well for both of these groups. Students consistently describe the course as both challenging and enjoyable, and frequently remark on the high quality of online support they receive. Many of our students decide to join the course on the recommendation of previous students.

Why Study GIS?

The benefits of GIS are increasingly recognised within government, business, education and the voluntary sector, and the applications of geospatial data technologies are steadily growing. Using GIS, it is possible to combine data from a broad range of sources and in a variety of formats, such as paper and digital maps, routinely collected administrative data, censuses and population surveys, satellite imagery, aerial photography, GPS tracking and surveys, LiDAR and crowd-sourcing. The uses of GIS are very diverse, and include mapping, spatial analysis, planning and decision-making within a wide range of disciplines and sectors – common examples include environmental management and conservation, resource management, emergency service planning and humanitarian assistance, health care provision, land use planning and urban development, the utilities, transport, geo-demographics, mineral extraction and retail analysis. Increasing uptake of GIS and associated techniques and technologies means that there is a growing demand for qualified personnel who have the skills to manage spatial data effectively. Strong industry links help ensure that our course is relevant to the needs of employers.

Course Summary

The course is designed to help people gain understanding and experience of GIS concepts, functionality and applications. Content focuses on the representation, acquisition, management, manipulation and analysis of spatial data. It also includes modules on remote sensing, spatial databases, web-GIS and GIS in the commercial environment. Additional optional modules include GIS work experience, spatial analysis and modelling, GIS for environmental management, and Customising GIS.

In addition to acquiring substantial theoretical knowledge of the subject, you will gain extensive practical experience using a variety of software, focusing primarily on ArcGIS but also including ERDAS Imagine, PostgreSQL, PostGIS, MySQL, OpenLayers, Geoserver, QGIS, Excel, SPSS and a number of GIS extensions and plug-ins. One of the core modules provides experience of web-based programming languages such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript, whilst an optional module in customising GIS applications introduces Esri’s ModelBuilder and the Python programming language.

After successfully completing the PgDip modules, you may transfer to the Masters part of the programme. This requires the completion of a substantial independent research project, written in the form of a research journal article (which may, with agreement of your supervisor, be submitted for publication).

As part of the course resources, you will be provided with a free copy of ArcGIS, the remote sensing package ERDAS Imagine, and the data analysis package SPSS.

Modules

Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.

Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.

Compulsory modules –

EGM711 – Principles of GIS (15 credits)

– this module runs in weeks 1-6 of semester 1 and is a compulsory module.

This module introduces the theory and practice of Geographic Information Systems, and is intended to provide an understanding of the breadth of potential GIS applications and to equip students with the key concepts and skills required relating to the input, management, manipulation, analysis and output of spatial data. Lecture-based teaching of key concepts is reinforced by linked practical exercises which allow students to develop competence in ESRI's ArcGIS package. The module assumes no prior knowledge or experience of GIS.

EGM713 – Introduction to Remote Sensing (15 credits)

– this module runs in weeks 1-6 of semester 1 and is a compulsory module.

This module offers students the opportunity to study the principles and applications of remote sensing and image analysis and to explore links between remote sensing and GIS. Students will become familiar with theoretical foundations of remote sensing and will develop technical skills through a series of software-based practical exercises and assignments using ERDAS Imagine.

EGM712 - Spatial Data Management (15 credits)

– this module runs in weeks 7-12 of semester 1 and is a compulsory module.

This module builds on the knowledge and practical skills gained in EGM711 to provide students with further experience in the acquisition, manipulation and analysis of spatial data. Methods for generating and collecting digital spatial data from primary and secondary sources are considered, and data processing, selection, integration and analysis extensively practiced. Lecture and practical sessions include digitising, geo-registration, GPS, accessing and using secondary sources, spatial join and overlay, network analysis and 3D modelling, and incorporate experience of a variety of large and small scale vector and raster datasets. The module also incorporates practice in statistical analysis and interpretation. Development of GIS software skills focuses on ArcGIS and extensions.

EGM717 – GIS Databases (15 credits)

- this module runs in weeks 7-12 of semester 1 and is a compulsory module.

This module examines the role of databases within the GI industry. It aims to enable students to appreciate the need for database skills that are used in GIS applications. The module is interactive and discussions are encouraged about spatial issues. A range of database skills are introduced which equip the student with knowledge of the potential and scope of databases within a range of different applications. Students will be introduced to a range of open source DBMS and GIS software including PostgreSQL, PostGIS and Quantum GIS.

Optional modules – total of 60 credits to be taken in semester 2

GROUP A – pick two (these modules run in weeks 1-6 of semester 2)

EGM715 – Web-Based GIS (15 credits)

This module examines the role of programming within the GI industry. It aims to enable students to appreciate the need for programming skills that can be used to customise and develop applications. A range of programming skills is introduced which equip the student with knowledge of the potential and scope of programming within various applications.

EGM702 – Photogrammetry and Advanced Image Analysis (15 credits)

This module covers advanced topics in visible remote sensing and image analysis, including photogrammetry and digital elevation models, image processing and manipulation, advanced classification techniques such as object-based image analysis (OBIA), and time series analysis using Google Earth Engine. It builds on the topics covered in EGM713, complements the topics covered in EGM722, and provides a foundation for further study in remote sensing.

EGM716 – Spatial Analysis and Modelling (15 credits)

This module builds on the introductory material of EGM711 and EGM712, covering key concepts of spatial data analysis and modelling, and providing extensive practical experience of ESDA and spatial modelling within a GIS environment.

EGM725 – GIS Work Experience (15 credits)

This module consists of a GI-related work experience placement designed to allow students the opportunity to contextualize their classroom-based learning in a professional environment relevant to a career in GI-related fields and to enhance their employability through work-based learning.

GROUP B – pick two (these modules run in weeks 7-12 of semester 2)

EGM714 - GIS in Business and Society (15 credits)

This module investigates the GI industry from the perspective of the GI professional, the GI customer/user and the various functions and processes behind the successful implementation of GIS in real world scenarios. The module aims to give students a firm understanding of GIS in the commercial world, an appreciation of the economic and social value of spatial data and the importance of decision-based techniques in spatial analysis within GIS applications. The module assumes no prior knowledge or experience of GIS.

EGM721 – GIS for Environmental Management (15 credits)

This optional module examines the application of GIS to environmental management, modelling and impact assessment. It aims to enable students to appreciate the need for properly researched information to support strategic and operational environmental management decisions, and to be aware of the means by which such information can be obtained and evaluated.

EGM722 – Programming for GiS & Remote Sensing (15 credits)

This module develops programming skills using the python programming language. The module seeks to provide students with key skills in the development of repeatable, automated analyses of GIS applications. The module also aims to develop academic writing skills in preparation for the MSc degree.

EGM725 – GIS Work Experience (15 credits)

This module consists of a GI-related work experience placement designed to allow students the opportunity to contextualize their classroom-based learning in a professional environment relevant to a career in GI-related fields and to enhance their employability through work-based learning.

It is also possible to take one 30 credit Environmental Management module in place of two of the optional modules in semester 2. You would take one of the below modules depending what year you start along with two of the optional modules listed above –

EGM804 – Environmental Impact Assessment (30 credits)

- this module will run in January 2023, January 2025, January 2027, January 2029

This module introduces the concepts and requirements of environmental impact assessment, the methodology of planning and carrying out an environmental audit and the use of environmental management systems.

OR

EGM801 – Biodiversity Management (30 credits)

- this module will run in January 2024, January 2026, January 2028, January 2030

Biodiversity managers make decisions based on understanding ecosystems and by applying ecological principles to achieve their objectives. This module covers key scientific topics, which are crucial for developing effective biodiversity management plans in different ecosystems. It exemplifies how ecological-social-economic factors interact to influence our ability to conserve and manage biodiversity.

Upon successful completion of the PG Dip students can proceed to the MSc and will take

EGM701 Geographic Information Systems Project

this is a 60-credit module. This module provides students with the opportunity to undertake a substantial piece of research in an area of particular interest to the student. The student will be assessed on their project plan and two progress reports, together with a research paper.

Attendance

This course is fully online and full-time. You do not need to visit Ulster at any stage to successfully complete this course.

The PgCert takes 3-4 months full-time

The PgDip takes 8 months full-time

The MSc takes 12 months full-time

As a distance learning student you can choose your own hours of study each week but as a full-time student you should expect to dedicate an average of 35-40 hours to the course per week. Note that you can also enrol for the course as a part-time student (see separate prospectus entry for course duration and study hours per week).

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Start dates

September 2023

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Teaching, Learning and Assessment

The course is delivered through a teaching platform (Virtual Learning Environment, VLE), called Blackboard, through which we provide teaching materials, assignment instructions, links to electronic library resources and other reading materials, as well as discussion boards and other communication tools. Teaching materials consist mainly of lectures in various formats (e.g. as illustrated documents or podcasts) and practical exercises (written instructions with screenshots or screencasts), which may be supplemented by additional reading or video content, tutorial exercises, quizzes etc. The format of delivery provides you with the flexibility to study at your own pace, any place and at any time, and you are not required to attend the campus at any stage during the course.

Learning is supported by lecturers and e-tutors via discussion forums, email, phone or video-conferencing tools. Discussion forums encourage participation from the whole class and offer opportunities for you to learn about issues and problems from different perspectives as well as getting to know your fellow students.

Assessment involves a mixture of methods including practical reports, problem analysis, research projects, presentations, blogs, online tests and group work. The Master’s element of the course takes the form of a substantial independent research project, written up in the form of an academic paper, which may subsequently be considered for submission to a scientific journal. You will be assessed by coursework only and there are no sessional examinations.

Once registered you will be able to use the University's extensive online library resources of electronic journals, e-books and databases.

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Academic profile

The University employs over 1,000 suitably qualified and experienced academic staff - 59% have PhDs in their subject field and many have professional body recognition.

Courses are taught by staff who are Professors (25%), Readers, Senior Lecturers (20%) or Lecturers (55%).

We require most academic staff to be qualified to teach in higher education: 82% hold either Postgraduate Certificates in Higher Education Practice or higher. Most academic staff (81%) are accredited fellows of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) by Advanced HE - the university sector professional body for teaching and learning. Many academic and technical staff hold other professional body designations related to their subject or scholarly practice.

The profiles of many academic staff can be found on the University’s departmental websites and give a detailed insight into the range of staffing and expertise.  The precise staffing for a course will depend on the department(s) involved and the availability and management of staff.  This is subject to change annually and is confirmed in the timetable issued at the start of the course.

Occasionally, teaching may be supplemented by suitably qualified part-time staff (usually qualified researchers) and specialist guest lecturers. In these cases, all staff are inducted, mostly through our staff development programme ‘First Steps to Teaching’. In some cases, usually for provision in one of our out-centres, Recognised University Teachers are involved, supported by the University in suitable professional development for teaching.

Figures correct for academic year 2021-2022.