Master of Applied Science (Spatial Information Science)
The field of spatial science involves the exploration of geographical association through different methods of spatial analysis and inquiry. The Master of Applied Science (SIS) will enable graduates to adopt effective spatial analysis methods for addressing broader environmental and socio-economic issues, examine geographical trends, embrace advances in spatial information technologies and contribute to innovations in the spatial science industry.
Overview
Challenges faced in addressing impacts of climate change, natural hazards and changing population pressures can often be addressed from a spatial perspective. Expansion in the availability of geographically referenced data has resulted from advances in satellite and aerial-borne remotely sensed technologies and the proliferation of spatially referenced databases. The utilisation of this information in understanding processes and addressing critical social and environmental problems has increased demand for interpretive, analysis and modelling theories and methodologies that deal with the spatio-temporal dimension. This program has been designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge, understanding and expertise in GIS, spatial modelling and remote sensing required for professionals in this field. The opportunity to select from a range of units of study allows students to focus on a preferred specialisation within the broader spatial science spectrum or to enhance existing expertise. Rapid expansion of the spatial science discipline over the past five years has generated increased demand for individuals with post graduate level qualifications in this field.
University of Sydney Advantage
The program offers a breadth of unit options available within Geosciences and Information Technologies. The teaching and research expertise provided by the cross-disciplinary nature of this program is unique in Australia. The combination of GIS, remote sensing, geocomputing, field mapping and spatial applications units offered at the University of Sydney allows students to gain expertise that are highly regarded by employees in the spatial science industry.
Course Expectations
Students will gain first hand knowledge of spatial analysis methods and modelling theory. In providing a solid grounding in the principles of spatio-temporal analysis and spatial reasoning the core units will engender a depth of knowledge that is immediately transferable to industry. Your spatial science skills will be further strengthened through the practical and field-based components of the program.
Mode of Delivery
Units offered within the Spatial Information Science program are held on the main campus of the University of Sydney. The majority of units are computer based and utilise the University’s latest geocomputing laboratory facilities. The units involve lectures, tutorials and practical sessions. Geosciences based units are all held during daytime hours, while some of the Information Technology units are held after working hours. Field-based work in some of the units will also involve excursions to sites within the Sydney region. Assessment is primarily by essay, practical assignment, project report and in some units a minor examination component. Please check www.geosci.usyd.edu.au for further details.
Admission Requirements
Although applicants do not specifically need to hold a science degree, all applicants must have some form of tertiary qualification where there is an emphasis on subjects related to spatial sciences. For instance, you may hold a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Geography, or an engineering degree, or a degree in Agricultural Science.
Alternatively, applicants must have substantial experience in the workplace and some type of tertiary qualification. Each application will be assessed on its individual merits.
Course Requirements
GradCertAppl(SIS)
- Satisfactory completion of 24 credit points
GradDipApplSc(SIS)
-Satisfactory completion of 36 credit points
MAppSc(SIS)
-Satisfactory completion of 48 credit points
Units of Study
There are several unique units of study offered by the Spatial Information Science program. Full details are available at www.geosci.usyd.edu.au/units_of_study/index.shtml#pgrad
For addition information please also refer to the Faculty Handbook.
After Graduation
The breadth of spatial science expertise gained upon graduating will provide you with a wide variety of employment opportunities. Depending on your background and the specialty areas in which you choose to study you can be employed in jobs ranging from GIS application development, remote sensing based landscape change monitoring through to modelling the consequences of modified water levels on in-land wetland systems. Spatial Information Science qualifications are in high demand at an international and national level both within private industry and government agencies. Within Australia, graduates have acquired jobs with federal, state and local government bodies including the Defence Imagery and Geospatial Organisation, the Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW and the Ku-ring-gai Council, as well as with private consultancies.
Special Note
The Spatial Information Science research project does not involve a specific topic but provides you with an opportunity to research a spatial science related issue or application of your interest. Students will need to contact a potential supervisor and discuss their topic of interest with them. For example, you may be interested in modelling coastal impacts of sea level rise, analysing patterns of landscape change or examining rates of urban growth.
Credit for Previous Study
Credit is not available in this program unless it is for units of study undertaken within embedded programs at the University of Sydney within the past two years, except at the discretion of the Dean.
Annual intake
There is no quota for this course.
Minimum Course Duration – Full Time
GradCert(SIS) - 0.5 year
GradDip(SIS) - 1 year
MAppSc(SIS) - 1 year
Minimum Course Duration – Part Time
GradCert(SIS) - 1 year
GradDip(SIS) - 2 years
MAppSc(SIS) - 2 years
Is Mid-Year Entry Available?
Yes
CRICOS Code
Master of Applied Science (Spatial Information Science) - CRICOS Code - 060915D
Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Spatial Information Science) -
CRICOS Code - 060914E
