Postgraduate Diploma in Geospatial Data Science
- Degree Structure - Start In
- Semester 1 or 2 (February or July)
120
Overview
Postgraduate Diploma in Geospatial Data Science
The Postgraduate Diploma in Geospatial Data Science (PGDipGDS) programme allows you to develop analytical skills in geospatial data at postgraduate level.
Study in this Diploma combines expertise in collecting, evaluating, and modelling location-based data with areas such as computer and information sciences, environmental studies, and social geography.
The Diploma can be a pathway to the 180-point Master of Geospatial Data Science with a research project or the 240-point Master of Science with a research thesis. Each degree is designed to be flexible so you can study alongside an existing career.
Postgraduate Diploma in Geospatial Data Science
- Gain fundamental skills in scanning geospatial data, visualisations and cartography, programming, and geospatial technologies.
Fieldwork opportunities throughout the programme to gain real-world geospatial data science skills.
Postgraduate Diploma in Geospatial Data Science
Entry to the PGDipGDS requires a bachelor’s degree with at least a B- Grade Point Average in your 300-level courses.
You will also need to have previously completed at least 15 points of undergraduate GIS courses, OR GISC422 Foundations of Geographic Information Systems, OR an approved equivalent course.
If you have not previously completed these GIS courses, you may be required to take an approved course or courses prior to approval into the programme.
Please share with us in your application if you have any professional experience in a related industry.
If English is not your first language, you are also required to meet UC's Postgraduate language requirements. See how to provide your English language evidence to UC. If you need help meeting these requirements, or would like to practise your English skills before studying, UC offers English for Academic Purposes (EAP) language programmes.
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Geospatial Data Science or use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
You can apply online at myUC.
See Admission and enrolment for all information on enrolling at UC.
Postgraduate Diploma in Geospatial Data Science
The Postgraduate Diploma of Geospatial Data Science is comprised of 120 points, including 45 points of compulsory courses and 75 points of elective courses.
You can study the Diploma full-time for 1 year, or part-time within 2 years.
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Geospatial Data Science.
Postgraduate Diploma in Geospatial Data Science
It is recommend to begin your Diploma in Semester 1 (February) with the course GISC426 Spatial Data Science and AI, but it may be possible to start with other courses if you already have basic understanding of computer programming.
The PGDipGDS includes compulsory courses on spatial programming, visualisation and spatial analysis, and you may choose 75 points from a selection of electives.
Compulsory courses
Elective courses
- up to 60 points chosen from GISC courses
- up to 30 points chosen from the elective courses list
Domestic students
2025 tuition fee estimate: $9,706 (120 points)
2026 tuition fee estimate: $10,288 (120 points)
International students
2025 tuition fee estimate: $43,800 (120 points)
2026 tuition fee estimate: $45,300 (120 points)
2027 tuition fee estimate: $47,600 (120 points)
Postgraduate Diploma in Geospatial Data Science
You may go on to study the Master of Geospatial Data Science, or Master of Science in Geospatial Data Science.
Postgraduate Diploma in Geospatial Data Science
Graduates of this Diploma will be able to fulfil the current geospatial skill shortage in Aotearoa New Zealand and overseas in a range of different industries, including the private sector, government, and community organisations.
Useful information:
- Read what other UC postgraduate students have gone on to achieve in their studies and careers in our student stories.
- Te Rōpū Rapuara | UC Careers can help you to achieve the career you want, connect with employers, or find a job.
- For research into career destinations by qualification, visit Te Pōkai Tara | Universities New Zealand website.
- Find out more about what can you do with a degree from UC.
- Come along to an upcoming information event for prospective postgraduate students.
