Program Overview

MSc Geographical Information Systems

Course summary

Gain advanced skills in implementing Geographical Information Systems (GIS). Apply GIS to map and analyse real-world problems. Develop your ability to communicate complex concepts to a range of audiences. Increase your employability skills by working on live projects in the industry.

Geographical Information Systems are increasingly important for understanding our changing planet. On this course you’ll develop cutting-edge skills while exploring the power of GIS – for both analysing and communicating spatial data. Along the way you’ll gain real-world experience in a range of industrial and academic sectors, giving you the knowledge and skills you need to kickstart your career.

Modules

Year 1

• Advances In G.I.S (30 credits)
  • Assessment: Coursework (100%)
• Spatial And Environmental Skills (30 credits)
  • Assessment: Coursework (100%)

Final year

• Gis Professional (30 credits)
  • Assessment: Coursework (100%)
• Independent Project (60 credits)
  • Assessment: Coursework (100%)
• Monitoring Change With Gis (30 credits)
  • Assessment: Coursework (100%)

Future careers

This course prepares you for a career in:

• GIS technician roles
• Strategic analysis
• Environmental modelling
• Data analysis
• Research
• Statistics
• Planning

Previous graduates of this course have gone on to work for:

• The Environment Agency
• The Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust
• Amazon Web Services
• Scottish Forestry
• Yorkshire Water
• ESRI
• Moors for the Future

Equipment and facilities

Students have access to specific GIS computer suites and remote-access software.

Entry requirements

• A lower second class degree or above in a relevant subject ensures consideration for entry on to the course.
• Individuals without a suitable degree will be considered where they can demonstrate they meet the applicant entry profile and have worked for two years at a management level using GIS in the workplace, or, have a sufficiently high level of technical ability and responsibility within their role to meet the satisfaction of the admissions tutor.
• If English is not your first language you typically need an IELTS 6.0 score with a minimum of 5.5 in all skills or equivalent.

Fees and funding

• Home students: £10,620 for the course
• International students: £17,725 for the course
• Postgraduate student loans: Up to £12,858 is available in 2025/26 for home students on most masters courses.

Where will I study?

You study at City Campus through a structured mix of lectures, seminars and practical sessions as well as access to digital and online resources to support your learning.

How do I apply?

You apply for this course via our online application form.