MSc Geographical Information Science
University of Manchester
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Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

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Location

The University of Manchester

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Study mode

Full Time

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Start date

SEP-25

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Duration

1 year

Course info

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Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

Location

The University of Manchester

Study mode

Full Time

Start date

SEP-25

Duration

1 year

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Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

Location

The University of Manchester

Study mode

Part Time

Start date

SEP-25

Duration

2 years

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Computer Science
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Geography & Environmental Science
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Course info

Course descriptionMSc Geographical Information Science focuses on the multi-disciplinary science concerned with the development and application of geographical information science technologies. It will prepare you to pursue a career in a geographical information science field.Geographical information technologies are increasingly used in everyday life, such as Google Earth and geosocial networking. Core geographical information science technologies, including geographical information systems ...Read more

Course description

MSc Geographical Information Science focuses on the multi-disciplinary science concerned with the development and application of geographical information science technologies. It will prepare you to pursue a career in a geographical information science field.

Geographical information technologies are increasingly used in everyday life, such as Google Earth and geosocial networking. Core geographical information science technologies, including geographical information systems (GIS) and remote sensing, have had a long history of application in government and private sector environmental agencies, planning, agriculture, forestry, utilities and transportation.

This course will enable you to develop fundamental skills and in-depth knowledge of key application areas. You can choose to undertake an applied study unit, which gives a range of work experience skills and can lead to dissertation opportunities working with key local and national employers.

We offer research-led teaching and a range of extra-curricular activities designed to deepen and enhance your learning experience. These include access to additional training resources, educational visits, career talks, and alumni presentations.

You will also gain experience using commercial and open source software and acquire skills in the development of spatial software for both desktop and online platforms.

Aims

You will develop advanced knowledge of and practical experience in:

  • GIS and remote sensing theory and practice;
  • advanced techniques for GIS analysis and image processing;
  • spatial analysis;
  • computer modelling and software development;
  • internet and GIS Web technologies;
  • databases and database technologies;
  • scientific communication of analytical results and their interpretation.

Coursework and assessment

Assessment is primarily coursework-based and includes a variety of project work, essays and presentations. This enables you to gain a significant amount of hands-on experience of applying geographical information science skills to real world environmental applications.

The dissertation, based on an original research project of your own design, accounts for 60 credits. Dissertation topics can focus on aspects of geographical information science (GIS) and are supported by researchers who specialise in core areas of GIS, remote sensing, or modelling. The remaining 120 credits are based on eight 15-credit course units (four in each semester).

Career opportunities

Geographical Information Science students have particularly great employment prospects, with graduates going on to successful careers in areas including:

  • surveying;
  • data analysis;
  • consultancy;
  • research;
  • project management;
  • environmental sciences;
  • marketing.

Recent employers of our MSc GIS graduates include:

  • United Nations;
  • Tanzania National Park;
  • Yorkshire Water;
  • The Environment Partnership;
  • Department of Land and Surveys.

You will have the opportunity to learn from staff with advanced and practical understanding of GIS. The taught component of the course, together with the experience of carrying out a postgraduate-level dissertation project, provides you with an excellent foundation for PhD research in numerous fields that involve geospatial data analysis, including physical and human geography, planning, development, and the environmental and earth sciences. There is a high demand worldwide for individuals with these skills.

Key stats

Computer Science
WUSCA ranking:
WUSCA student ranking
These are the 2024 rankings, based on ratings given by past and current students.
63/101
CUG Subject Ranking
CUG Subject Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2025
11th
CUG Ranking
CUG Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2025
22nd
What students say
SR
Student Reviewer
02 Dec 24

Uni experience is great, some elements of the course are frustrating..Read more

A
Amina
02 Dec 24

I love how huge the campus..Read more

Modules

Modules (Year 1)
IDP Connect

Entry requirements

We require a UK Honours degree with a First or Upper Second (2.1) classification or the overseas equivalent in Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Geography or a related discipline. Graduates in Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Mathematics or Engineering related disciplines are also welcome. When assessing your academic record we take into account the grades you have achieved and the standing of the institution where you studied your qualification.

Tuition fees

Students living in

Domestic

£14,000 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from Domestic

This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

£31,000 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from EU

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

£31,000 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from International

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

IDP Connect

Latest reviews

Latest Geography reviews

Geography
Geography
SR
Student Reviewer
02 Dec 24
Geography BA (Hons)
Uni experience is great, some elements of the course are frustrating...
Read more
A
Amina
02 Dec 24
Geography BA (Hons)
I love how huge the campus...
Read more
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How Geography students rated:

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( 4.0) 33 reviews
5 star
19%
4 stars
66%
3 stars
12%
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( 4.1) 1,653 reviews
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Uni info

University of Manchester
Oxford Road Manchester M13 9PL United Kingdom
Nearest train station: Manchester Piccadilly  0.3 miles away
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