• Toll free: 1800 258 5772

University of Canterbury

Christchurch , Christchurch ,New Zealand

Professional Master of Geospatial Science and Technology

The Professional Master of Geospatial Science and Technology (PMGST) equips current and future geospatial professionals with experience in GIS and location data analysis, for leadership roles in government, industry, and research.

This taught Master’s offers foundational knowledge for those from a diverse range of backgrounds to acquire the knowledge, skills, and industry networks to work effectively in a geospatial environment. It will also provide development opportunities for those already in the industry.

The programme intersects relevant disciplines such as Data Science, Computer Science, and Environmental Science with spatial analysis. Students will gain skills in programming, research analysis, database management, using and applying geospatial technology, and communication.

Campus Information

Ilam Campus

The University has a main campus of 76 hectares (190 acres) at Ilam, a suburb of Christchurch about 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) from the centre of the city.

Intakes

  • Feb Deadline: Dec
  • July Deadline: May

Application Processing Time in Days: 20

Application Process

More Information Required 
14 Days
Possible Interview Call from Institution
0 Days
Provisional/Unconditional Offer 
20 Days
Visa Process
30 Days

Minimum English Language Requirements

English Level Description IELTS (1.0 -9.0) TOEFL IBT (0-120) TOEFL CBT (0-300) PTE (10-90)
Expert 9 120 297-300 86-90
Very Good 8.5 115-119 280-293 83-86
Very Good 8 110-114 270-280 79-83
Good 7.5 102-109 253-267 73-79
Good 7 94-101 240-253 65-73
Competent 6.5 79-93 213-233 58-65
Competent 6 60-78 170-210 50-58
Modest 5.5 46-59 133-210 43-50
Modest 5 35-45 107-133 36-43
Limited 4 32-34 97-103 30-36
Extremely Limited < 4 < 31 < 93 < 30

Job Opportunity Potential

The PMGST provides graduates with the problem solving skills and technical knowledge to undertake advanced geospatial roles.

There is currently a geospatial skill shortage in Aotearoa New Zealand, which graduates of this degree will be able to fulfil in a range of different industries, including the private sector, government, and community organisations. Potential roles could be GIS analyst, GIS planner, local government analyst, or geospatial technology developer.

PSW Opportunity

  • During study, all students on a student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during semester and full time during vacations.
  • After completing Level 7 Bachelor’s Degree or Higher Qualification, a student will get a three years open post-study work visa.
  • After completing Level 8 Post Graduate courses of 1 year, students get 1 year PSW.

Admission Requirement / Eligibility Criteria

Academic entry requirements

Students should have achieved at least a B Grade Point Average in 300-level courses in an area which is relevant to Geographic Information Science eg, computer science, environmental science, the digital humanities, or any other relevant subject.

Students without a university degree can apply for entry with at least three years of previous relevant professional experience, assessed and approved by the Academic Dean of Science.