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Information Systems
Bachelor of Applied Science (BAppSc) majoring in Geographic Information Systems
Bachelor of Applied Science (BAppSc) majoring in Geographic Information Systems

Bachelor of Applied Science (BAppSc) majoring in Geographic Information Systems

  • ID:UO640086
  • Level:3-Year Bachelor's Degree
  • Duration:
  • Intake:

Fees (NZD)

Estimated Total/program:
Apply
60
Accept letter
100
Visa
20
Fly
1

Admission Requirements

Entry Requirements

English Requirements

  • IELTS Academic, IELTS score of 6.0 in the academic module (with no individual band below 5.5). IELTS Online is also accepted.

  • Internet-based TOEFL, Score of 80 (writing 20) TOEFL iBT Home Edition is currently accepted for applications for intakes commencing semester 2 2022 and 2023 intakes. The University of Otago TOEFL institution code is: 9483 (Please note we do not accept MyBest TOEFL scores).

  • Paper-based TOEFL, Score of 550 (TWE 4.5) The University of Otago TOEFL institution code is: 9483

  • Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE), Overall score of 176 (with no individual band below 169)

  • Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE), Overall score of 176 (with no individual band below 169)

Course Information

Take a look around you notice how every feature has its own unique and precise location.

These locations can be fixed by geographical coordinates and measured in one, two or three dimensions in space. The process of linking features with geo-referenced coordinates creates spatial data, and these data are stored and managed in geographic information systems (GIS).

GIS have revolutionised the way that spatial data are used – many aspects of our everyday lives are connected with GIS in one way or another, from the obvious Google Earth and mobile location technologies to morning mail delivery, our electricity supply, through to weather forecasts every evening.

Why study Geographic Information Systems?

GIS are fundamental to urban and regional planning, wildlife management, using business intelligence in commerce, tourism, public health, traffic management, and a host of other applications. It is a multi-billion dollar worldwide industry, with opportunities almost anywhere in the global economy.

It is an area of study that is truly cross-disciplinary. GIS combines academic rigour with practical application. Accurate, complete and up-to-date spatial information is an immensely valuable resource for businesses and governments.

You will gain a thorough understanding of spatial data, analysis, and visualisation, and be able to apply GIS techniques.

You'll also learn about mobile GIS and web mapping as well as remote sensing (including from drones) and GNSS (GPS positioning.

You will learn skills in project management, cartographic representation, database design, and basic computer programming.

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100-level

  • COMP 101  Foundations of Information Systems

  • COMP 161  Computer Programming

  • COMP 162  Foundations of Computer Science

  • MATH 130  Fundamentals of Modern Mathematics 1, or MATH 140  Fundamentals of Modern Mathematics 2

  • SURV 102 Geospatial Science

  • At least one of COMP 151, GEOG 101, GEOG 102, STAT 110, SURV 101, ENGL 228

  • Note: Students are exempt from COMP 161 if they have gained entry to COMP 162 by passing COMP 151 with a grade of at least B or via an Advanced Placement Test.

200-level

  • INFO 201 Developing Information Systems 1

  • INFO 202 Developing Information Systems 2

  • SURV 208  Introduction to Geographic Information Systems

  • At least one 200-level GEOG or SURV paper

Above 200-level

  •  SURV 309  Introduction to Remote Sensing Technologies

  • SURV 319  Spatial Algorithms and Programming

  • SURV 411  Spatial Analysis and Modelling

  • At least one further 300-level GEOG or SURV paper

  • Plus, 108 further points, including either requirements for an approved minor or approved second major subject or other approved papers

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Pre Courses

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Pathway Courses

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Career Opportunity

Career Opportunity

There are diverse opportunities for GIS graduates throughout New Zealand and worldwide. You'll gain the specialist skills needed to work as a GIS or Remote Sensing operator, analyst or manager.

You may end up employed by a large corporation, working in local, regional or the national government, or equally, you could work for a consultancy firm. This kind of work tends to have plenty of variety, and opportunities for travel.

You might be identifying the geographical distribution of endangered plant, animal or bird species. You could work for a regional council, analysing the risk of landslips or flood mitigation; or advising on planning issues. You will also be in an excellent position to launch your own business after you have gained some experience in the spatial information industry.

Ability to settle

Overseas Student Health Cover

Health Insurance: 600 per year

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