Program Overview

Geomatics Program Overview

The Geomatics program at the University of Waterloo combines computer science with geographic and environmental data analysis. This field is rapidly growing, with high job placement rates, as over 80% of the world’s information has a location component to it. Students in this program learn to use tools such as remote sensing, computer mapping, geographic information systems (GIS), and global positioning systems (GPS) to analyze a wide variety of information and make meaningful decisions.

Course Topics

The program covers a range of topics, including:

• spatial analysis
• computer programming
• statistics
• Internet mapping
• surveying
• remote sensing
• database development
• unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) use
• enterprise information technology

What Sets the Program Apart

• Geography at Waterloo is ranked in the top 100 in the world and top 5 in Canada (QS World University Rankings).
• The program includes 4 computer science courses offered from Waterloo’s world-class David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science, with the option to take additional courses to earn a Computer Technology option.
• Access to high-tech labs and comprehensive training in tools and techniques allows students to use what industry uses, making a seamless transition to the workplace.

Research Areas

The University of Waterloo is involved in various research areas, including:

• Climate Change
• Economy and Society
• Earth Systems Science
• Geomatics

Graduate Programs

The university offers graduate programs in Geography, including Master's and PhD degrees, as well as a Master of Climate Change program with various electives and a program handbook. A Graduate Diploma (GDip) in Climate Change is also available.

University Acknowledgement

The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of its work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples, and is committed to active work toward reconciliation through research, learning, teaching, and community building.