Professional Master of Geospatial Science and Technology
PMGST
Duration
12 months full-time
Entry times
February or July (Semester 1 or 2)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Duration
12 months full-time
Entry times
February or July (Semester 1 or 2)
Fees Estimate
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 new taught-master’s offers foundational knowledge for those students from a more diverse range of background 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.
- 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 a 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 average in a 300-level course in an area which is relevant to Geographic Information Science eg, computer science, environmental science , the digital humanities or any other relevant degree subject.
Prospective students without a geospatial study background can take GISC 422 Foundations of Geographic Information Systems as part of their master’s, or have at least three years of relevant professional experience 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 12 months full-time, or up to 48 months part-time.
The PMGST includes two 15-point compulsory courses covering core geospatial competencies, a further 45 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.
Compulsory courses
Research project
Optional courses
A further 45 points from topics that include statistics, computer programming and digital business and technology. These can be selected from the Professional Master of Geospatial Science and Technology 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 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, 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
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) |
| 2019 | 180 | Banded Fee - total tuition fee dependent on course selection | $12,401 |
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) |
| 2019 | 180 | Band 4 | $54,900 |
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