Professional Master of Geospatial Science and Technology
PMGST
Duration
1 year full-time
Entry times
February or July (Semester 1 or 2)
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Duration
1 year full-time
Entry times
February or July (Semester 1 or 2)
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Overview
The Professional Master of Geospatial Science and Technology (PMGST) equips current and future geospatial professionals with experience in GIS and location data analysis, for leadership roles in government, industry, and research.
This taught Master’s offers foundational knowledge for those from a diverse range of backgrounds to acquire the knowledge, skills, and industry networks to work effectively in a geospatial environment. It will also provide development opportunities for those already in the industry.
The programme intersects relevant disciplines such as Data Science, Computer Science, and Environmental Science with spatial analysis. Students will gain skills in programming, research analysis, database management, using and applying geospatial technology, and communication.
- UC has extensive research strengths and strategic partnerships in the field of geospatial technology, such as the Geospatial Research Institute | Toi Hangarau.
- PMGST students will be able to apply their geospatial skills through lab and field work, an industry-relevant research project, and the opportunity for an internship.
- Students without previous experience in geospatial technologies will be able to take a foundational course as part of the degree.
- Geospatial science is recognised on Immigration NZ’s current Long-Term Skill Shortage List.
- UC is ranked in the top 100 universities in the world for Geography, and in the top 200 for Computer Science and Information Systems (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2018).
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
Students should have achieved at least a B grade average in 300-level courses in an area which is relevant to Geographic Information Science eg, computer science, environmental science, the digital humanities, or any other relevant subject. Students without a strong geospatial study background can take the preparatory course GISC 422 Foundations of Geographic Information Systems as part of their Master’s.
Students without a university degree can apply for entry with at least 3 years of previous relevant professional experience, assessed and approved by the Academic Dean of Science.
For the full entry requirements see the Regulations for the Professional Master of Geospatial Science and Technology or use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
You can apply online at MyUC. Find out more about how to apply for graduate and postgraduate qualifications.
The PMGST requires 120 points of coursework, plus a 60-point industry-based research project.
The degree can be completed in 1 year full-time, or up to 3 years part-time.
The PMGST includes two compulsory courses covering core geospatial competencies, a further 90 points of optional courses, and a collaborative industry-related research project, which will be completed in partnership with a geospatial organisation or an organisation with geospatial knowledge needs.
Students without a strong geospatial study background will also need to take the preparatory course GISC 422 Foundations of Geographic Information Systems.
Compulsory courses
Research project
Optional courses
A further 90 points (or 75 if needing to take GISC 422) from topics that include statistics, computer programming, and digital business and technology. These can be selected from the courses listed in Schedule B.
Students may go onto Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) studies in a large variety of related subjects, for example Geography.
The PMGST provides graduates with the problem solving skills and technical knowledge to undertake advanced geospatial roles.
There is currently a geospatial skill shortage in Aotearoa New Zealand, which graduates of this degree will be able to fulfil in a range of different industries, including the private sector, government, and community organisations. Potential roles could be GIS analyst, GIS planner, local government analyst, or geospatial technology developer.
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
Contact us
For full requirements see the Regulations for the Professional Master of Geospatial Science and Technology.
For study planning help, please contact 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