172799 v.4 Bachelor of Science (Cartography)

Introduction

Cartography is a science-based discipline which is concerned with the interpretation, storage, display 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, computer assisted mapping and geographic information systems, are all included within this subject area. Over recent years, cartography has become an increasingly high technology industry, eg using computers as tools in the mapping process, and this is reflected in the degree course. Cartography encompasses a whole range of activities - from data acquisition and manipulation, to symbolisation, storage and representation in map or digital form, to map reading, interpretation and use.Study in modern cartography necessarily calls upon elements from such diverse disciplines as computing, multimedia, environmental science, film and print technology, geography, management, mathematics, physics and psychology, 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. Applicable Mathematics is desirable.

Specific Requirements

Students are required to have access to, or possess, a portable electronic programmable calculator with hard wired trigonometrical subroutines and a minimum capacity of ten significant figures. Students will receive information concerning an appropriate purchase at their first lecture period. Attendance at field excursions and survey camps is compulsory. Students who do not attend will not have completed the course requirements. All degree students should seek employment in their field during the summer vacation. Three months approved practical experience is required before a cartography degree will be awarded. STAT elements considered are E and Q.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Applications for recognition of prior learning are assessed on an individual basis.

Duration and Availability

The course is three years full-time duration and is also available on a part-time study basis.

Professional Recognition

On completion of the course, cartography students will become eligible for associate membership of the Mapping Sciences Institute Australia (MSIA) and after two years work experience may obtain full membership. Graduates may also obtain membership of the Australasian Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (AURISA).

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, and in 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 vital study materials. In addition, students may also need to contribute some of the cost of consumables, which varies depending on the area of study.

Availability

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.