Geoinformation Technology and Cartography

The Geoinformation Technology and Cartography program at the University of Glasgow focuses on understanding and managing the locational data required to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) together with visualisation and map production in a GIS environment.

Key facts

• Our School is consistently ranked amongst the top 10 in the UK, currently we are 6th (Complete University Guide).

• Geography at Glasgow is ranked 41st in the world (QS World Rankings).

• The Geoinformation Technology and Cartography program at the University of Glasgow is the only program in the UK that focuses on cartography. The program has been running since 1963 and celebrated its 50th birthday in 2013.

• This program is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES), when fully completed with the award of an MSc.

• If you are seeking a career in geographic information management or cartography and have little or no academic background in this subject: or if you have a technical/practical background in the subject and are seeking an academic qualification; this program is designed for you.

• The MSc in Geoinformation Technology and Cartography is a one-year Masters program aimed at those seeking a career in Geographic Information management or cartography. The focus of the course is on understanding and managing the locational data underpinning Geographic Information Systems (GIS), visualisation and map production in a GIS environment.

• You will benefit from access to our extensive computer laboratories and the latest software, including ArcGIS and MapInfo for GIS, graphic design packages and remote sensing processing software.

• The program will include either attendance a 3-day GIS research conference (depending on dates), or a short residential field course. Costs for this are included within the program fee.

• The School of Geographical & Earth Sciences has an Athena Swan Silver Award, demonstrating the school’s commitment to supporting women in scientific studies and careers, and to improving the working environment for all.
• Career prospects
• Career opportunities exist in both the private and public sectors and there is currently high demand for GIS skills. Positions include cartographer with map publishing company, government agency, or private service agency; GIS specialist, ranging from support in large corporations (banking, insurance, retail), environmental consultancies, local authorities, utility companies; mapping specialist with software house or geoinformation data provider.
• Graduates of this program have gone on to work for companies such as Scottish Water, Natural Power, Arcus, Harper-Collins Cartographic, BT and British Antarctic Survey. Positions include GIS Cartographer, GIS Operator and GIS Analyst.

Courses include:

• Geomatics

• Principles of GIS

• Land Surveying

• Topographic Mapping And Landscape Monitorin

• Applied GIS

• Geospatial Data Infrastructures and Land Administration