Objectives
This course is designed specifically for graduates of biology, agriculture, mathematics, planning, business, geography, computing, environmental science, geology and other related fields who seek intensive training in geographic information science principles and applications. Through a series of coursework units you will develop a thorough understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of the structure, development, application, implementation and management of geographic information systems (GIS). You will learn the fundamental principles of remote sensing, spatial database systems, data analysis and scientific computing, and explore the purpose, design, architecture, function, management and use of geographic information systems.
Course description
Graduate Diploma in Geographic Information Science
GradDipGIS(Curtin)
Course CRICOS Code: 007889G
Registered full-time Duration for International Onshore Students on student visas: 1 Year
Introduction
This course is designed for graduates in biology, agriculture, mathematics, planning, business, geography, computing, environmental science, geology and related fields seeking intensive training in geographic and land information systems principles and applications. It provides a thorough understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of the structure, development, application, implementation and management of geographic and land information systems. It provides instruction in fundamental principles of cartography, mathematics, statistics and scientific computing - the purpose, design, architecture, function, management and use of geographic and land information systems, support studies in scientific computing, analysis and modelling of geographic information, database design and structure, remote sensing and application areas. This course is available on campus and by distance education via the Internet to Australian and International students.
Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites
A degree or equivalent qualification from a recognised tertiary educational institution. The qualification may be in any discipline. Applicants are assumed to have a background in mathematics and statistics equivalent to first year university level. Applicants without this background may be required to undertake appropriate preparatory units. International students may need to substitute a communication unit for one of the specialist optional units subject to an English communication diagnostic test.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Applications for recognition of prior learning are assessed on an individual basis. Applicants with relevant postgraduate qualifications and experience may arrange a study program covering the basic course material. In such cases, recognition of prior learning may be granted. Recognition of prior learning of 100 credits will be granted to students who have completed the Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science. Optional units are intended to provide students with a broader and deeper insight into the knowledge, skills and applications of GIScience. Recognition of prior learning is not normally granted for optional units.
Duration and Availability
This course is one year full-time or equivalent part-time study. Flexible modes of program delivery are utilised and the course is available on campus and online. Part-time and external study is only available to Australian resident students and international students studying outside Australia.
Intermediate Awards 1
A student who has successfully completed the requirements of an approved intermediate award may apply for graduation in that award subject to approval of Head of School/Department. Fees apply. Intermediate award(s) approved for this course are:
Intermediate Awards II
Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science
Course Organisation
This course consists of five foundation units which reflect the field of geographic information science. These units are extended by three specialist options in the broader areas of spatial information. Optional units are listed below. Other specialist optional units are offered in applied mathematics, artificial intelligence, environmental biology, cartography, computing science, environmental management, geology, natural resources, remote sensing, surveying, urban and regional planning, and related disciplines. The individual optional units must be approved by the Department's coordinator of postgraduate studies.
Additional Course Expenses
Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other essential study materials.
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
10513 v.4 Remote Sensing and Image Processing 581 5.0 25.0
12450 v.3 Geographic Data Analysis 582 5.0 25.0
13382 v.2 Spatial Database Systems 582 5.0 25.0
306454 v.1 Spatial Computations 581 5.0 25.0
4556 v.4 Geographic Information Systems 581 4.0 25.0
SELECT OPTIONAL UNITS TO THE TOTAL VALUE OF: 75.0
200.0
Optional Units to Select from in Year 1 Hrs/Wk Credit
10510 v.3 Photogrammetric Mapping 582 5.0 25.0
10511 v.2 Thematic Cartography 581 5.0 25.0
12452 v.3 GIS Management 581 5.0 25.0
302231 v.3 Geographic Information Science Topics 581 5.0 25.0
307424 v.2 Coordinate and Mapping Systems 582 5.0 25.0
310046 v.1 Web GIS 581 4.0 25.0
310360 v.2 Geographic Information Systems Programming 582 4.0 25.0
310835 v.1 Geographic Data Structures 582 4.0 25.0
4552 v.5 GIS Project 594 5.0 25.0
4554 v.7 Spatial Analysis 581 5.0 25.0
4558 v.6 Spatial Data Handling 582 5.0 25.0
Availability
Year Location Period Internal Fully Online#
2009 Bentley Campus Semester 1 Y
2009 Bentley Campus Semester 1 Y
2009 Bentley Campus Semester 2 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.
