MSc Geographical Information Science

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The MSc Geographical Information Science at the University of Exeter is designed for students who want to build advanced skills in geospatial technologies and use data to solve real-world challenges in areas such as environmental management, climate change, transport, business, and urban planning. Whether you are coming from a geography background or another discipline, the programme provides practical training in the full GIS workflow, from collecting and analysing spatial data to creating maps, models, and visualisations.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Building Professional GIS Skills

Students begin by developing a solid foundation in geospatial technologies through core modules such as GIS for Professionals, Environmental Remote Sensing, and Coding for Spatial Analysis. These modules introduce essential GIS techniques, spatial data analysis, programming skills, and remote sensing methods while helping students build practical experience with modern geospatial tools.

As the programme progresses, students expand their expertise through modules including Drone Analysis and Geo-Visualisations, Spatial Data Science, and Open Source GIS. They learn how to analyse drone imagery, create interactive visualisations, manage spatial datasets, and use open-source GIS platforms to solve complex real-world problems.

The programme concludes with either an Applied Project (Academic) or an Applied Project (Consultancy), allowing students to work on research projects with university academics or consultancy projects for external organisations. Students can also broaden their knowledge through optional modules such as Digital Mapping and Survey, Climate Change Science and Solutions, Quantitative Methods and AI for Environmental Challenges, and Data Governance and Ethics.

Focus Areas

Geographical Information Science, spatial data science, GIS workflows, remote sensing, coding for spatial analysis, drone analysis, geo-visualisation, open-source GIS, environmental mapping, digital mapping, AI for environmental challenges, climate science, data governance, consultancy projects.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will develop the ability to collect, manage, analyse, visualise, and communicate geospatial data using professional GIS techniques and technologies. Students will gain practical skills in coding, remote sensing, drone data analysis, spatial modelling, and data-driven decision-making, preparing them for careers across a wide range of industries.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The programme has been developed in collaboration with Esri, a global leader in GIS software, ensuring students gain industry-relevant knowledge and practical skills aligned with current professional practice. Students can also choose a consultancy-based applied project, providing valuable experience of working on real projects with external organisations.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Exeter is recognised internationally for excellence in Geography and Environmental Sciences. It is ranked among the world's leading universities for Geography, performs strongly in UK subject rankings, and is recognised for world-leading research, giving students the opportunity to learn in a highly respected academic environment.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on the MSc Geographical Information Science at the University of Exeter build practical skills by working with real geospatial datasets, professional GIS software, remote sensing technologies, and coding tools used across the geospatial industry. The programme combines hands-on laboratory sessions, field-based data collection, consultancy or research projects, and specialist training, giving students the confidence to solve real-world environmental, business, and urban challenges using spatial data. Throughout the course, students learn from research-active academics while gaining experience with the technologies and workflows used by geospatial professionals.

Students also benefit from a range of specialist facilities, digital tools, and project-based learning opportunities:

Esri ArcGIS Software: The programme is developed in collaboration with Esri, giving students practical experience with ArcGIS software for mapping, spatial analysis, and geospatial data management.
Open Source GIS Tools: Students gain hands-on experience using open-source GIS platforms to manage, analyse, and visualise complex spatial datasets.
Coding for Spatial Analysis: Practical programming sessions help students develop coding skills for analysing spatial data, automating workflows, and solving geospatial challenges.
Environmental Remote Sensing: Students work with satellite imagery and remote sensing techniques to monitor environmental change and interpret geographical patterns.
Drone Analysis and Geo-Visualisations: Students learn how to process drone imagery, create advanced maps, and communicate spatial information through professional visualisations.
Applied Consultancy or Research Project: The programme concludes with either an Applied Project (Consultancy) for an external organisation or an Applied Project (Academic) with university researchers, allowing students to apply their knowledge to real-world projects.
Field-Based Data Collection: Students develop practical experience in collecting, managing, and analysing geospatial data through fieldwork and digital surveying activities.
Digital Mapping and Survey Technologies: Optional modules provide additional training in modern mapping techniques, survey methods, and geospatial data collection.
Research Facilities and Academic Expertise: Students benefit from specialist geography laboratories, computing facilities, and the expertise of researchers working in GIS, environmental science, climate change, and spatial data science.
Library and Digital Resources: Access to extensive digital databases, mapping datasets, specialist GIS software, and the University of Exeter Library supports both coursework and independent research.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Geographical Information Science at the University of Exeter develop a strong combination of technical GIS knowledge, spatial data analysis skills, coding abilities, and problem-solving expertise that are highly valued across many industries. The programme prepares students for careers in environmental management, government, consultancy, technology, and research, with potential roles including Geospatial Analyst, GIS Consultant, Remote Sensing Specialist, and Spatial Data Scientist.

Career development and future opportunities include:

Career Support Services: Students benefit from the University of Exeter’s Career Zone, which provides personalised career guidance, CV and interview support, career workshops, employer events, and resources to help students successfully transition into professional roles.
Industry Partnerships and Professional Links: The programme has been developed in collaboration with Esri, a global leader in GIS software, helping students gain industry-relevant experience with professional geospatial technologies. Students also benefit from opportunities to engage with external organisations through applied projects and consultancy-based work.
Employment Opportunities: Graduates gain expertise in areas such as spatial data science, remote sensing, WebGIS, open-source GIS, coding, and geo-visualisation, creating opportunities in sectors including environmental consultancy, urban planning, transport, utilities, government, conservation, and technology.
Professional Value: The programme’s focus on industry-standard GIS tools, practical projects, and real-world applications provides graduates with valuable skills for long-term careers in the growing geospatial technology sector.
Graduate Outcomes: Graduates can progress into roles such as GIS Manager, GIS Technician, Geospatial Analyst, Environmental Consultant, Transport Planner, Risk Modeller, Biodiversity Consultant, Spatial Data Analyst, and Mapping Specialist. The programme also supports students who wish to continue into research or specialist careers.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc Geographical Information Science, students can continue their academic journey through a PhD in areas such as Geographical Information Science, Geography, Environmental Science, Remote Sensing, or Spatial Data Science. The research and project experience gained during the programme provides a strong foundation for further study and careers in academic research, government research organisations, and specialist geospatial fields.