MSc Geographic Data Science

Overview

This programme aims to develop a high level understanding of quantitative and computational geographical methods. This includes skills in GIS software and statistical programming languages, such as R or Python.

Within an applied setting, emphasis is placed on developing skills in the visualisation, modelling and statistical analysis of conventional and novel sources of data, ranging from censuses and social surveys through to satellite imagery and social media using both web-based and traditional techniques.

More about Geographic Data Science

Human activity are increasingly associated with the generation of large volumes of data. For example, transactional data are collated by retailers for marketing and store location purposes, administrative data are assembled to help with the efficient running of public services, data shadows are created through social media use, and an increased prevalence of smart-card linked transport systems record our travel behaviours.

Many grand human challenges concern problems of a geographical nature; be this how we can mitigate the human impact of climate change; ensure global food and water security; design energy systems that are resilient within the context of future population dynamics; or, how to design future cities where spatial inequities in health and wellbeing might be eradicated? The growing volumes of big data about the form, function and dynamics of human activities and their contexts are providing new opportunities to advance such debates within a framework of Geographic Data Science.

Career prospects

There has never been a more exciting time to complete a degree in Geographic Data Science. The skills involved in translating new and emerging data safely into useful information are in high demand both within the public and private sectors. This degree recognises that the traditional market for GIS has evolved, and that students require a broader suite of more advanced computational, quantitative and data manipulation skills for them to remain competitive in the global jobs market.