MSc Geographical Information Science

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Please submit the following documents with your completed application form:

• copies of official degree certificatesand transcripts of your previous study, showing the subjects taken and grades obtained. Ifthese documents are in languages other than English, please provide official translations;
• copies of English Language Certification, eg IELTS, TOEFL iBT or Pearson test score report, if available at the time of application;
• your CV.

Ensure that you enclose all the necessary documents to avoid any delays.

Geospatial technologies are transforming the way we understand and interact with the world around us.  The MSc Geographical Information Science (GIS) provides advanced training in the theory, methods and applications of geographical information science (GIS). You will explore how spatial data can be collected, managed, analysed and communicated to understand geographical and environmental processes and support evidence-based decision-making.

This programme combines GIS, spatial analysis, remote sensing, geospatial data acquisition, modelling, data visualisation and software development (both commercial and open-source). You will develop both the conceptual understanding and technical capabilities needed to work with complex spatial datasets and address geographical questions across different scales and sectors.

What you will study

The programme will develop your knowledge progressively, from core principles of geographical information science to advanced analytical and research methods.

Led by experts in environmental, ecological, and social applications of GIS, you’ll explore how GIS is used across a wide range of sectors, from environmental management and data science to urban sustainability and planning.

Flexible and applied learning experience

As part of the applied study unit, you will have opportunities for work experience and collaboration with leading local and national organisations, potentially shaping your dissertation research and professional direction.

The MSc GIS also includes a fully funded residential field course, in which you will gain skills in geospatial data acquisition, including use of unmanned aerial vehicles, surveying, participatory GIS, and other advanced methods, and where you’ll work collaboratively with your peers to apply your knowledge to real-world issues in the fields of energy, ecology, and conservation. In doing so, you will develop expertise in primary data collection, processing, and visualisation which are highly sought after by employers.

During your studies you will have access to a world-class geocomputational laboratory, enabling ambitious and computationally demanding work in GIS, Remote Sensing, and related fields, with access to high-performance computing, networks, and machine learning servers. You will also have access to university computer laboratories, licenses for proprietary software, and training from GIS technical specialists who will support and enhance your learning.

Research and independent study

With the MSc Geographical Information Science you will benefit from research-led teaching, a fully funded residential field course, access to world-class geocomputational facilities, support from GIS technical specialists, and academic guidance from researchers at the forefront of the field. Whether you're aiming for a career in industry, or looking to develop the skills needed for further research, this course equips you with everything you need to succeed in the fast-growing world of geographical information science.

You will develop advanced knowledge of and practical experience in:

• GIS and remote sensing theory and practice;
• advanced techniques for GIS analysis and image processing;
• spatial analysis;
• computer modelling and software development;
• internet and GIS Web technologies;
• databases and database technologies;
• scientific communication of analytical results and their interpretation.

• Geography has been studied at Manchester for more than 125 years, and we're one of Europe's best-equipped universities for the subject.
• We’re home to world-class academics in Geography and other areas of the University contributing to the programme, including the Manchester Urban Insitute , and the Manchester Environmental Research Institute .
• Join the Manchester University Geographical Society (MUGS) a society run by Geography students for Geography students.

Assessment is coursework-based and includes a variety of assessment types, such as project reports, essays, programming tasks, and research posters. This will enable you to gain a hands-on experience of applying geographical information science skills to real-world applications. 

The dissertation, based on an original research project or design of your choice, accounts for 60 credits. Dissertation topics can focus on aspects of geographical information science (GIS) and are supported by researchers who specialise in core areas of GIS, remote sensing, or modelling. The remaining 120 credits are based on eight 15-credit course units (four in each semester).

As datasets and models increase in size and complexity, from hyperspectral remote sensing imagery through to large language models, our ability to process and analyse them is increasingly dependent on computational power. Recent investment has led to the development of the Geography geocomputational laboratory, a world-class resource that is available to both researchers and students alike. During your studies you will have access to high-performance computing, networks, and machine learning servers, with training and support from GIS technical specialists and academic staff in the Mapping, Computing and Geographical Information Science ( MCGIS ) research group. These resources are made available to support ambitious and computationally demanding research, for example as part of your dissertation, enabling you to tackle research questions and focus on real-world problems that would be impossible to address using typical processing capabilities.

You will also have access to a wide range of equipment, including mobile devices, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), real-time kinematic global navigational satellite systems (RTK-GNSS), environmental sensor networks, and more, as well as licenses for industry-standard proprietary software, equipping you for a future career in research or industry.

Graduates of Geographical Information Science (GIS) enjoy excellent career prospects, with many going on to exciting roles in sectors such as surveying, data analysis, consultancy, research, project management, environmental science and even marketing.

The demand for GIS expertise continues to grow, both in the UK and internationally, opening doors to a wide variety of professional pathways.

Our alumni have secured positions with leading organisations including the United Nations, Tanzania National Park, Yorkshire Water, Skanska UK, WSP, The Environment Partnership, and the Department of Land and Surveys. These outcomes reflect the value and versatility of the skills you’ll gain on this course.

You’ll be taught by staff with advanced, hands-on knowledge of GIS, ensuring that what you learn is both academically rigorous and directly relevant to the needs of employers. Alongside taught modules, the course includes a substantial dissertation project, giving you the chance to apply your skills to a practical research problem and demonstrate your expertise.

Dissertations can be based on secondary data analysis, or can involve primary data collection e.g., using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, Participatory GIS, or other techniques. You will develop important skills in data acquisition as part of a residential field course in Semester 1 and will have access to equipment and technical support available within the Geography department.

Whether you’re aiming for a professional career or considering doctoral research in areas such as geography, planning, development, or the environmental and earth sciences, this course provides a strong foundation. With geospatial data playing an increasingly important role in shaping our world, graduates are highly sought after for their specialised knowledge and practical skills.

Careers support

The University has its own dedicated Careers Service that you have full access to as a student and for two years after you graduate.

At Manchester you will have access to a number of opportunities to help boost your employability .

Careers support for international students

The Careers Service provide specialist resources, advice and events for international students to help with career planning and making the most of your time while studying in Manchester.

• Working in the UK after study
• Working during study
• Professional and alumni networks for international students

Global networks

The University of Manchester is proud to have the largest global alumni community of any campus-based university in the UK.

International alumni groups are a great way to keep in touch with fellow Manchester graduates in your country and provide an opportunity to build professional and social networks.