Master of Geographic Information Science
MGIS
Duration
1–2 years full-time
Entry times
February (Semester 1)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Download Brochure
Duration
1–2 years full-time
Entry times
February (Semester 1)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Download Brochure
Overview
The Master of Geographic Information Science is the only degree of its kind in Aotearoa New Zealand offering specialist subjects and research. It provides an interdisciplinary approach to Geographic Information Science, including taught courses and supervised research.
Graduates will have advanced knowledge in the field, with the ability to carry out original research, and plan, execute, and present the findings of applied GIS projects. They will be qualified to work as GIS professionals in research, government, and industry.
Normally the minimum requirement is a three-year bachelor’s degree from an Aotearoa New Zealand university, or a qualification or combination of qualifications considered to be equivalent. If you gained your qualifications overseas, these will need to be assessed to make sure they are of an equivalent standard.
You are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.
Specific entry requirements
Candidates wishing to enrol in the MGIS must have either:
- qualified for the Postgraduate Diploma in Geographic Information Science, or an equivalent postgraduate qualification, normally with a B grade average or better; or
- qualified for a bachelor's degree in an Aotearoa New Zealand University which is of relevance to the proposed course of study, normally with a B grade average or higher; and
- presented evidence of ability for advanced level academic study
and either:
- completed at least two undergraduate courses in GIS, at least one of which should be at 300-level or higher, as approved by the Programme Director of GIS; or
- have significant relevant work experience to serve as adequate preparation for the MGIS, as approved by the Programme Director of GIS.
A special application is required – see 'How to apply' below.
For the full entry requirements see the Regulations for the Master of Geographic Information Science or use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
Students must apply for admission to the MGIS programme. Applications must be received by the Department of Geography | Te Tari Mātai Matawhenua on the prescribed form no later than 1 February. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that an up-to-date official academic record is sent to the Department of Geography | Te Tari Mātai Matawhenua as soon it is available. Students must also apply to enrol via MyUC.
Find out more about how to apply for graduate and postgraduate qualifications.
The Master of Geographic Information Science consists of two parts – coursework and a thesis – allowing for students to further investigate areas of interest to them and conduct independent and original research. A minimum of 120 points must be completed successfully for each part, totalling 240 points.
Part I and Part II takes 2 years full-time, or 4 years part-time.
Part II (thesis-only) takes 1–2 years full-time, or 2–4 years part-time.
Part I
Compulsory courses:
- GISC 401 Foundations of Geographic Information Science
- GISC 402 GI Science Research
- GISC 403 Cartography and Geovisualisation
- GISC 404 Spatial Analysis
Group A - at least one of the following:
Group B - at least one of the following:
- GISC 410 Special Topic (offered by Victoria University of Wellington | Te Whare Wānanga o te Ūpoko o te Ika a Māui)
- GISC 411 Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in Health
- GISC 412 Spatial Algorithms and Programming
- GISC 413 Geomatic Data Acquisition Techniques
- GISC 415 Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Internship
- GISC 416 Conservation GIS
- Another two courses from Group A or B, or another relevant programme of study with approval of the Director: GIS
Part II
Postgraduate study can bring many career benefits eg, specialist skills and enhanced knowledge, entry into specific occupations, higher starting salary/progression rates, research capability/achievement, and evidence of high academic attainment/self-discipline.
Useful information:
- Read what other UC postgraduate students have gone on to achieve in their studies and careers in our student and graduate profiles.
- Our Careers, Internships & Employment team can help you to achieve the career you want, connect with employers or find a job.
- For research into career destinations by qualification, visit the Universities New Zealand website.
- Find out more about what you can do with a degree from UC.
- Come along to an upcoming information event for prospective postgraduate students.
See Tuition Fee Structure for more information
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) |
| 2019 | 120 | Not open to new enrolments in 2019 | N/A |
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) |
| 2018 | 240 | Part I and Part II (Special (Set) Programme Fee) | $69,800 |
| 2018 | 120 | Part II (Thesis) only, if PGDipGIS has been completed (Special (Set) Programme Fee) | $34,900 |
| 2019 | 120 | Not open to new enrolments in 2019 | N/A |
Contact us
For full requirements see the Regulations for the Master of Geographic Information Science.
For study planning help contact the Department of Geography | Te Tari Mātai Matawhenua or the College of Science:
College of Science | Te Rāngai Pūtaiao
University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
Phone +64 3 369 4141
Email collegeofscience@canterbury.ac.nz