Geographic Information Systems - Online

Overview

With 30 years of experience in teaching Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and nearly 25 years of expertise in online distance learning, we have established a strong and successful track record in GIS education. This course covers the fundamental concepts of GIS and offers extensive hands-on practice with both commercial and open-source software. You have the flexibility to study full-time or part-time, and you can pursue a Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, or a Master’s degree.



We delve into how to obtain, analyse, problem-solve, and communicate using maps and spatial data through modules on GIS, remote sensing, spatial data management and databases, and web-based GIS. Optional modules include GIS work experience, spatial analysis and modelling, GIS for environmental management, and customising GIS. You will gain extensive hands-on experience: in addition to developing core skills using ArcGIS, you will work with a wide range of software, including Erdas Imagine, QGIS, OpenLayers, GeoServer, PostgreSQL, PostGIS, SPSS, and Excel, along with various GIS extensions, plug-ins, and programming languages. If you choose to complete the Master’s project, you can focus on a topic of your own choosing.



Our graduates enjoy a high success rate in securing GIS employment, with over 95% finding jobs according to graduate surveys. Those who already have GIS work experience report significant benefits from the course, as it allows them to broaden, deepen, and formalise their knowledge.



Please contact the course team if you have any questions | ges@ulster.ac.uk



Work placement / study abroad

Gaining practical experience and applying academic knowledge in a real-world context is highly beneficial for students preparing to enter the workforce. Therefore, we offer full-time students the option to undertake a ‘GIS Work Experience’ module. This involves working within an organisation for 2.5 days per week over a six-week period. Placements, which are unpaid, can be in the public sector, private companies, charities, or educational institutions.



Students who participate in this module find it extremely valuable for both professional and personal development. They often highlight benefits such as:

• Broadening technical skills

• Gaining experience in team-working and independent problem-solving

• Improving confidence

• Learning about the geospatial industry and employment opportunities through exposure to real-world GIS applications

Modules

Compulsory modules:

EGM711 – Principles of GIS (15 credits) – this module runs in weeks 1-6 of semester 1 and is a compulsory module.

EGM717 – GIS Databases (15 credits) - this module runs in weeks 1-6 of semester 1 and is a compulsory module.

EGM712 - Spatial Data Management (15 credits) – this module runs in weeks 7-12 of semester 1 and is a compulsory module.

EGM713 – Introduction to Remote Sensing (15 credits) – this module runs in weeks 7-12 of semester 1 and is a compulsory module.



Semester 2 (total 60 credits to be taken)

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

EGM715 – Web-Based GIS (15 credits)

EGM702 – Photogrammetry and Advanced Image Analysis (15 credits)

EGM716 – Spatial Analysis and Modelling (15 credits)

EGM725 – GIS Work Experience (15 credits)



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

EGM721 – GIS for Environmental Management (15 credits)

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

EGM725 – GIS Work Experience (15 credits)

EGM804 – Environmental Impact Assessment (30 credits) – this module will run in January 2025, January 2027, January 2029, January 2031

Or

EGM801 – Biodiversity Management (30 credits) – this module will run in January 2026, January 2028, January 2030, January 2032.

The normal requirement is an Honours degree (2:2 or above) with a substantial component of geography, environmental science or computing, but we will consider applicants with other equivalent and relevant qualifications or experience on an individual basis.



English Language Requirements

English language requirements for international applicants

The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement



Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.



• For English language requirements go to: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/global/apply/english-language-requirements



• For Your country go to: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/global/apply/country

Your Application

You can apply directly to Ulster at any time of year. We advise that you submit your application no later than two weeks prior to your course start date. This is to ensure there is sufficient time for your application to be reviewed and, should you be made an offer, time for you to complete all the necessary pre-enrolment tasks.



Some programmes will have specific deadlines as additional selection (e.g. interview, portfolio submission etc) is required, so please check the course page to ensure you have sufficient time to complete your application.

This course is fully online and full-time, with no requirement to visit Ulster University at any stage.



PG Diploma: 8 months full-time

MSc: 12 months full-time



As a distance learning student, you can choose your own study hours each week. However, as a full-time student, you should expect to dedicate an average of 35-40 hours per week to the course. Part-time enrolment is also available (please refer to the separate prospectus entry for details on course duration and study hours per week).



This course is fully online and part-time, with no requirement to visit Ulster University at any stage.



PG Diploma: 2 academic years part-time

MSc: 3 academic years part-time



As a distance learning student, you can choose your own study hours each week. However, as a part-time student, you should expect to dedicate an average of 17-20 hours per week to the course. Full-time enrolment is also available (please refer to the separate prospectus entry for details on course duration and study hours per week).



Students wishing to study at a slower pace than the standard part-time course can enrol for one module per semester instead of two.

Start Date: September 2026.

Careers and Opportunities

GIS and geospatial technologies are at the forefront of a rapidly growing, multi-billion-dollar industry, now mainstream in both public and private sectors. This growth has created a high demand for graduates with theoretical and practical skills.



Our graduates have secured a variety of GIS-related roles worldwide, including roles such as technicians, analysts, scientists, surveyors, data specialists, mapping officers, consultants, project managers. They work across diverse sectors, including: mapping agencies, GIS and SatNav companies, environmental consultancies, ecological and marine resource management, renewable energy, forestry, fisheries, town planning, heritage agencies, health and emergency services, housing authorities, local government, aid agencies, countryside recreation, rural development, retail analysis, utilities and infrastructure, education, mining, and the oil industry.



The versatility of GIS ensures a wide range of job opportunities. Additionally, knowledge of geospatial data is increasingly valuable in many fields outside the GI profession, enhancing employability across various industries.



We are proud members of the Remote Sensing & Photogrammetry Society (RSPSoc) (opens in new window), the UK’s leading professional body dedicated to advancing the science, technology, and practical applications of remote sensing and photogrammetry, providing students and researchers access to knowledge, networking, and professional development. Students on this course are eligible for FREE membership of the RSPSoc.