Objectives
A new generation of mapping Cartographers apply a unique combination of advanced technology, scientific principles and artistic design to collect, analyse, manage and present information about the Earth and its features. They provide important solutions for mining, exploration, mapping, surveying, marketing, web publishing, planning, environmental management and many other industries. Cartography has become a high-technology industry, incorporating aspects of map design and production, as well as leading edge techniques of data analysis and management using remote sensing and geographic information systems and spatial databases. This course is the only one of its kind in Australia. It will provide you with a comprehensive education, exploring a combination of established mapping techniques and advanced computer technology. You will study elements from diverse disciplines such as computing, multimedia, environmental science, geology, film and print technology, geography, history, management, mathematics, physics, psychology and creative sciences, such as art and design. You will gain valuable experience in the use of modern techniques of remote sensing, geographic information systems, web cartography and desktop publishing, as well as topographic, thematic and photogrammetric mapping, and map production. Field excursions and survey camps are included in this course to give you a full and hands-on learning experience. You will also undertake three months of practical experience to reinforce your learning.
Course description
Bachelor of Science (Cartography)
BSc(Curtin)
Course CRICOS Code: 003871F
Registered full-time Duration for International Onshore Students on student visas: 3 Years
Introduction
Cartography is a science-based discipline which is concerned with the representation, analysis and management of data related to the earth's physical and man-made features. Specialist areas, such as topographic and thematic mapping, photogrammetry and remote sensing, web mapping, computer-assisted mapping and geographic information systems are all included within this subject area. Cartography has become a high technology industry, incorporating aspects of map design and production, as well as leading edge techniques of data analysis and management using remote sensing and geographic information systems and spatial database. Cartography necessarily calls upon elements from such diverse disciplines as computing, multimedia, environmental science, film and print technology, geography, management, mathematics, physics, as well as the creative sciences such as art and design.
Additional Introductory Information
The Department of Spatial Sciences offers the only three-year degree in cartography in Australia. In addition a fourth year for honours in cartography is offered, which leads directly into the Master of Science (Surveying and Mapping) or the Doctor of Philosophy.
Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites
One TEE Mathematics subject.
Specific Requirements
STAT elements considered for mature age entry are E and Q. STAT applicants will be required to meet entry pre-requisites by completing enabling units. This study may extend the duration of the course. Attendance at field excursions and survey camps is compulsory. Students who do not attend will not have completed the course requirements. Three months approved practical experience is required before a cartography degree will be awarded.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Applications for recognition of prior learning are assessed on an individual basis.
Duration and Availability
This course is three years full-time or equivalent part-time study.
Professional Recognition
On completion of the course, cartography graduates are eligible for membership to the Spatial Sciences Institute.
Career Opportunities
Interesting and challenging professional careers are available to cartography graduates throughout Australia and the world. Excellent opportunities for employment exist in local, state and federal governments, the private sector in mapping and land management companies, the mining industry, the petroleum industry and many others.
Additional Course Expenses
Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other essential study materials.
Further Information
For further information contact the Department of Spatial Sciences. See also Geographic Information Science and Surveying.
Course Structure Disclaimer
Curtin University reserves the right to alter the internal composition of any course to ensure learning outcomes retain maximum relevance. Any changes to the internal composition of a course will protect the right of students to complete the course within the normal timeframe and will not result in additional cost to students through a requirement to undertake additional units.
Course Structure Hrs/Wk Credit
Year 1 Semester 1
302318 v.1 Spatial Computations 181 5.0 25.0
305639 v.1 Mathematics 135 4.0 25.0
4536 v.5 Geographic Information Systems 181 4.0 25.0
8920 v.5 Cartographic Statistics 181 5.0 25.0
100.0
Year 1 Semester 2
12449 v.3 Geographic Data Analysis 182 5.0 25.0
301995 v.5 Communication Skills 116 2.0 12.5
302530 v.2 Spatial Data Processing 182 5.0 25.0
302531 v.1 Computer Aided Mapping 182 3.0 12.5
311054 v.1 Mathematics 146 5.0 25.0
100.0
Year 2 Semester 1
10416 v.2 Survey Computations 185 5.0 25.0
10418 v.2 Plane and Construction Surveying 181 5.0 25.0
310045 v.2 Web Mapping 281 4.0 25.0
7073 v.7 Thematic Cartography 281 4.0 25.0
100.0
Year 2 Semester 2
10422 v.3 Photogrammetric Mapping 282 5.0 25.0
10424 v.2 Coordinate and Mapping Systems 282 5.0 25.0
12037 v.4 Spatial Database Systems 282 5.0 25.0
SELECT 1 OPTION 25.0
100.0
Year 3 Semester 1
10423 v.4 Remote Sensing and Image Processing 281 5.0 25.0
10426 v.3 Spatial Business Management 381 5.0 25.0
11711 v.4 Spatial Analysis 281 5.0 25.0
310482 v.2 Applications of Global Positioning Systems 381 5.0 25.0
100.0
Year 3 Semester 2
302321 v.1 Land Planning 386 5.0 25.0
311370 v.1 Spatial Sciences Project 494 5.0 25.0
4577 v.5 Electronic Publishing and Evaluation 381 5.0 25.0
SELECT 1 OPTION 25.0
100.0
Optional Units to Select from in Year 2 Semester 2 Hrs/Wk Credit
10426 v.3 Spatial Business Management 381 5.0 25.0
10457 v.4 Engineering and Control Surveying 281 5.0 25.0
10721 v.4 Spatial Data Handling 382 5.0 25.0
10722 v.4 Geographic Information Systems Management 381 5.0 25.0
302527 v.1 Spatial Modelling 382 5.0 25.0
310078 v.1 Geographic Data Structures 281 3.0 25.0
Optional Units to Select from in Year 3 Semester 2 Hrs/Wk Credit
10426 v.3 Spatial Business Management 381 5.0 25.0
10457 v.4 Engineering and Control Surveying 281 5.0 25.0
10721 v.4 Spatial Data Handling 382 5.0 25.0
10722 v.4 Geographic Information Systems Management 381 5.0 25.0
302527 v.1 Spatial Modelling 382 5.0 25.0
310078 v.1 Geographic Data Structures 281 3.0 25.0
310083 v.3 Geographic Information Systems Programming 182 4.0 25.0
Availability
Year Location Period All* Internal
2009 Bentley Campus Semester 1 Y
2009 Bentley Campus Semester 2 Y
The information displayed above refers to study periods and locations where the course is available for first time entry. Students are normally only offered or admitted to a course once.
*The course itself may not be available either solely internally or externally but individual units may be offered in either or both of those modes. Prospective students should contact the Course Coordinator for further information.
^Course and associated units are offered in this mode permitting International Onshore student enrolment.
#Course and associated units are offered in this online only mode and DO NOT permit International Onshore student enrolment.
