Doctor of Philosophy in Geographic Information Science

Program Overview

The University of Sharjah’s PhD in Geographic Information Science (GIS) prepares professionals for various sectors in the field. The program emphasizes theoretical knowledge, research, analytical, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills for GIS, and has an expected research emphasis on topics such as remote sensing, climate change, population studies, natural hazards, and coastal zone management. Upon completion, the program aims to train and equip graduates with the ability to apply theories, develop research, communicate, identify ethical concerns, and manage issues in Geographic Information Science and related disciplines.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Program Description: The PhD in Geographic Information Science (GIS) is designed to meet the market demand of various sectors, including academia, municipalities, urban planning departments, environmental agencies, police, and military.
• Research Focus: Students are expected to formulate their research on a variety of topics, including GIS, remote sensing, climate change, population studies, natural hazards, and coastal zone management.
• Program Goal: The program aims to contribute to both the academy and the UAE by training nationals to meet the nation's vision.
• Program Structure: The PhD consists of two major components: taught courses (24 credit hours) and a research dissertation (30 credit hours).
• Program Objectives:
• To provide essential knowledge about the latest theories and advances in the field of geospatial science.
• To develop research, critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills in the GIS field.
• To offer students the opportunity to integrate their educational and professional experience.
• To produce graduates who can advance GIS theory and practice.
• Program Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
• Develop research of significance and originality which extends knowledge in Geographic Information Science.
• Demonstrate an insight into the transferable nature of research skills to other work environments and the range of career opportunities available to them inside and outside academia.
• Identify and manage ethical issues and principles relevant to Geographic Information Science and to academia more widely.

Outline:

• Required Credit Hours: Minimum 54 hours
• Program Structure: Divided into four parts:
• Part 1: General College Requirements (6 credits)
• Required Courses (6 hours):
• CHSS700 Research Methods and Ethics (2 credit hours)
• CHSS702 Critical Reading and Writing (2 credit hours)
• CHSS703 Digital Applications in Humanities and Social Sciences (2 credit hours)
• Part 2: Geography Requirements (18 credits)
• Required Courses (18 hours):
• GEOG703 Geographic Information Systems: Applications in Geographical Research (3 credit hours)
• GEOG707 Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) (2 credit hours)
• GEOG708 GIS Modeling (3 credit hours)
• GEOG709 Internet and Mobile GIS (3 credit hours)
• GEOG710 GIS & Accuracy Assessment (3 credit hours)
• GEOG712 GIS Programming (2 credit hours)
• GEOG718 Spatial Analysis and Geo-statistics (2 credit hours)
• Part 3: Qualification Requirements (0 hours)
• Qualification Requirements (0 hours):
• GEOG800 Comprehensive Examination (0 credit hours)
• GEOG810 Research Proposal (0 credit hours)
• Part 4: Research Requirements (30 hours)
• Dissertation Research (30 hours):
• GEOG900 Dissertation Research (36 credit hours)

Other:

• Program Focus: The program emphasizes training nationals to meet the UAE's vision.
• Program Relevance: The program is designed to meet the market demand of various sectors, including academia, municipalities, urban planning departments, environmental agencies, police, and military.
• Research Emphasis: Students are expected to conduct research on a variety of topics related to GIS, remote sensing, climate change, population studies, natural hazards, and coastal zone management.