Geographical Information Systems (L7032A)

15 credits, Level 5

Autumn teaching

On this module, you'll learn about Geographical Information Systems (GIS), the basic principles of them and how to apply them using widely-used GIS software. You'll gain both theoretical knowledge to critically engage with the subject and practical skills in using GIS tools.

Through hands-on experience, you’ll explore a range of techniques, including:

  • data collection
  • data capture
  • database management
  • analysis
  • visualisation.

These methods will be shown through various social and environmental applications, highlighting the potential of GIS analysis in assisting decision-making.

By the end of the module, you'll also be able to produce maps using free GIS applications.

Teaching

100%: Practical

Assessment

40%: Coursework (Computer-based examination)
60%: Written assessment (Report)

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 46 hours of contact time and about 104 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

Courses

This module is offered on the following courses: