Geographical Information Systems BSc(Hons)

Why choose this course?

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) is a stimulating field that combines the skills of the geographer with technology. A degree in GIS gives you the opportunity to develop a rewarding career in a growth industry. You can study this course on its own or with another subject. Kingston University was the first in Europe to offer a degree in GIS.

You can choose to study GIS on its own or in combination with another subject. See the course combinations section for more information about the different joint honours options.

Watch a video to find out why you should study at Kingston University:

What will you study?

Our GIS programme covers the principles of geographical data handling and GIS concepts, the analysis of geographical problems, the collection of geographical data, allied technologies, and internet and mobile mapping. You will also explore GIS application development and the use of GIS in hazard assessment and management, geodemographics, crime mapping, healthcare analysis and geovisualisation, and internet and mobile technologies. You will undertake local and foreign fieldwork and have the chance to visit mapping organisations, listen to acknowledged experts and use cutting-edge technology.

Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list. Those listed here may also be a mixture of core and optional modules.

Year 1

• Digital Earth

• Digital Earth

  Digital Earth introduces the underlying geographical skills of data collection, manipulation, analysis and presentation and the use of computers for dealing with digital spatial data. It focuses on the concepts and value of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) in geosciences and the importance of digital spatial data in the modern geo-infrastructure.

  
   
• GIS Techniques

• GIS Techniques

  This module extends the knowledge you gained in 'Introduction to GIS', focusing on:

  • standard GIS analytical techniques; and
  • the appropriate use of digital spatial data for geographical analysis and problem solving.

  It is supported by an extensive practical/lab programme.

  
   
• Applications of Geo-Analysis

• Applications of Geo-Analysis

  This module presents current research topics being undertaken by members of the Centre for GIS. This provides an opportunity to discuss and apply the methodologies employed to the subject domains. A group research project forms a significant assessment element, allowing you to apply the techniques you learn to contemporary research areas.

  
   
• Mathematics and Statistics
• Sustainable Development: Issues and Concepts
• Understanding the Environment
• Fundamental Programming Concepts
• Investigating the Earth and Environment

Year 2

• Geographical Analysis and Modelling

• Geographical Analysis and Modelling

  This module develops your skills in spatial data analysis and modelling. You also explore:

  • the application of techniques using GIS;
  • methods for the analysis of point patterns, spatially continuous data, area based data, spatial interaction data and networks;
  • issues of data visualisation, exploration and modelling;
  • the philosophy of an applied GIS approach; and
  • uncertainty and limitations
  
   
• GIS Enterprise and Research

• GIS Enterprise and Research

  This module examines the business aspects of GIS. It focuses on the implementation and operation of GIS within an organisational framework, including:

  • the structural positioning of information systems and GIS within a corporate environment;
  • project planning and project management skills; and
  • the planning and implementation of a research project.
  
   
• Spatial Databases

• Spatial Databases

  This module examines the concepts and applications of database management systems, with hands-on cases studies demonstrating the linkages between GIS and databases. Additional topics covered in the module include structured query language (SQL), data mining, and object-oriented and temporal databases.

  
   
• GIS Software Development

• GIS Software Development

  This module provides an introduction to Visual Basic for Applications as implemented within ArcGIS. You will cover:

  • basic programming concepts;
  • interface; and
  • the ArcGIS object model diagrams.

  Group work focuses on the development of an actual application.

  
   
• Remote Sensing and Image Processing

• Remote Sensing and Image Processing

  This module introduces you to the principles of remote sensing and remote sensing technology. This includes theoretical underpinnings and reviews of current, satellite-based, remote-sensing platforms.

  A strong practical element ensures you gain familiarity with leading remote-sensing software and standard image processing, feature definition and classifcation techniques.

  
   
• Digital Mapping

• Digital Mapping

  Map making is a key element in the use of GIS and presentation of spatial data. This module introduces you to the theory of cartographic design and production.

  You will develop an appreciation of the practical problems associated with the design and production of a new cartographic product using a range of data sources. The overall aim is to provide skills allowing you to both appreciate and apply effective cartographic design using GIS.

  
   
• Geodemographic Analysis

• Geodemographic Analysis

  This module introduces demographic analysis, before examining multivariate statistical techniques used in market analysis, lifestyle and area classification systems.

  You will produce a case study of a local authority in the UK, applying these methods. We put particular focus on investigating problems of analysing demographic and socio-economic change over time.

  
   
• Mobile GIS (overseas fieldwork)

• Mobile GIS (overseas fieldwork)

  This module is an overseas field course, which currently takes place in Malta. You undertake a range of exercises in mobile GIS including:

  • data capture using a range of equipment such as Total Stations for precision survey work and dual channel Trimble GPS devices for satellite navigation and positioning;
  • mapping exercises including offshore bathymetry; and
  • visits to many local organisations and sites.
  
   
• Option modules

• Option modules

  Option modules may include:

  • Hydrology;
  • Operating Systems and Networking;
  • Planning and the Environment; and/or
  • Geodemographic Analysis.
  
   

Year 3

• Contemporary Issues in GIS

• Contemporary Issues in GIS

  This guest lecturer series brings in experts from government, commerce and academic environments to talk on major issues in the development and application of GIS.

  Speakers target technical issues, commercial markets and research applications in particular. We encourage you to form a critical appraisal of the role of GIS in modern geographical thought and its impact on other disciplines.

  
   
• Geo-visualisation

• Geo-visualisation

  This module develops your understanding of the cognitive processes of spatial knowledge acquisition and examines current visualisation techniques for spatial data. The course covers

  • multimedia mapping;
  • map animation;
  • electronic atlases;
  • web-based and mobile mapping;
  • visualising uncertainty;
  • the development of 3D and virtual GIS;
  • 3D modelling;
  • temporal modelling; and
  • the development of exploratory GIS.
  
   
• Crime Pattern and the Environment

• Crime Pattern and the Environment

  This module covers the application of Geographical Information Systems to the analysis of crime and its geo-expression.

  
   
• Systems Analysis and Design
• Geoweb Applications

• Geoweb Applications

  This module provides an introduction to Cadastral land information for managing the environment, with an examination of the concepts and capabilities of the Geoweb in providing this information. Practical sessions focus on the ability to evaluate and design geoweb-enabled land and property information systems suitable for public or commercial application. 

  
   
• Geodemographic Analysis

• Geodemographic Analysis

  This module introduces demographic analysis, before examining multivariate statistical techniques used in market analysis, lifestyle and area classification systems.

  You will produce a case study of a local authority in the UK, applying these methods. We put particular focus on investigating problems of analysing demographic and socio-economic change over time.

  
   
• GIS and Hazards

• GIS and Hazards

  This module explores the patterns and processes of hazards, such as hurricanes, tsunamis, earthquakes and disease transmission, using GIS as an analytical tool.

  You cover hazard prediction, assessment, management and mitigation, including the role of GIS in coping with the aftermath.

  
   
• High Definition Surveying

• High Definition Surveying

  High Definition Surveying explores the underlying geographical and technological concepts of ground and aerial surveying. It covers data capture using Total Stations and HDS Laser scanners and the analysis and use of LIDAR data for a range of applications in geosciences and forensic science.

  
   
• Water Resources Management
• Global Environments: Strategic Assessment (overseas fieldwork)
• GIS Dissertation (double)

• GIS Dissertation (double)

  This double-module allows you to plan and execute a personal research project. You design a research project with specified aims and objectives in an appropriate field of GIS. This incorporates

  • a review of relevant literature;
  • data capture;
  • analysis and output of results; and
  • applying appropriate use of GIS technology.

  Results are communicated by oral and written means.

  
   
• GIS Dissertation (single)

Kingston graduate and honorary doctor Ed Parsons – the technology expert who helped develop Google's Street View photo maps. Find out more.