Online Courses Handbook 2003

155006 v.5 Graduate Diploma in Geographic Information Science

Introduction
This course is designed for graduates in cartography, surveying, 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. In particular, 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.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites
A degree or equivalent qualification from a recognised tertiary educational institution. The qualification may be in any discipline. Students enrolling in this course are assumed to have a background in mathematics and statistics equivalent to first year university level. Students without this background must enrol in 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.

Duration and Availability
The course is available by full-time study over one year or part-time over two years or more. Flexible modes of program delivery are utilised and the course is available on campus and online.

Intermediate Awards
A student who has successfully completed all the requirements of the Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science may apply under exceptional circumstance provisions for graduation in that award subject to the approval of the Head of Department. For further definition refer to the Statement and Awards section under General Information.

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 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.

Course Structure Hrs/Wk Credit

Year 1

10513 v.2 Digital Remote Sensing 582 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 5.0 25.0

SELECT OPTIONAL UNITS TO THE TOTAL VALUE OF: 75.0

200.0

Optional Units to Select From in Year 1 Hrs/Wk Credits

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

10510 v.2 Photogrammetric Mapping 581 5.0 25.0

10511 v.2 Thematic Cartography 581 5.0 25.0

10515 v.2 Land Information Systems 584 5.0 25.0

12451 v.3 Spatial Modelling 582 5.0 25.0

12452 v.3 GIS Management 581 5.0 25.0

13383 v.2 Geometronics 581 5.0 25.0

302231 v.2 GIS Topics 581 5.0 25.0

305567 v.1 GIS Topics 582 5.0 25.0