MODULE SUMMARIES
Please note that module content is reviewed and updated on an annual basis and the content described here is subject to minor modifications.
(i) Postgraduate Diploma Core Modules: GI Industry strand
Principles of GIS (EGM711) Semester 1, weeks 1-6
This module introduces the theory and practice of Geographic Information Systems, reviewing the breadth of potential GIS applications and equipping students with the key concepts and skills required relating to the input, management, manipulation, analysis and output of spatial data. Lecture-based teaching of key concepts is reinforced by linked practical exercises developing skills in ESRI’s ArcGIS. The module assumes no prior knowledge or experience of GIS.
Spatial Data Management (EGM712) Semester 1, weeks 7-12
This module builds on the knowledge and practical skills gained in EGM711 to provide further experience in the acquisition and management of spatial data. Methods for generating and integrating digital spatial data from primary and secondary sources are considered, with lecture and practical sessions looking at digitising, geo-registration, data collection (e.g. GPS and LiDAR) and using secondary sources such as the Census and government population statistics. The module also incorporates extensive practice in data handling, GIS functionality and analysis and statistics. Development of GIS software skills focuses primarily on ArcGIS, while the SPSS package is used to introduce statistical analysis of GIS data. EGM711 is a prerequisite for EGM712.
Introduction to Remote Sensing (EGM713) Semester 1, weeks 1-6
This module gives students a thorough grounding in digital remote sensing and analysis techniques. The module explores the theoretical principles of the discipline and is supported by the industry standard remote sensing software package ERDAS Imagine. Practical knowledge of remote sensing and image analysis is developed through a series of practical exercises and a project.
GIS Databases (EGM717) Semester 1, weeks 7-12
This module introduces the concept of developing a reliable spatial database for use in any organisation and provides an insight into both small scale and large scale relational spatial database management systems. A range of database skills are introduced which equip the student with knowledge of the potential and scope of databases within a range of different applications. Students are introduced to a range of open-source DBMS and GIS software including PostgreSQL, PostGIS and QGIS.
All students also choose four optional modules from the list below to complete the PgDip. Note that part-time students starting the course in semester 2 (January intake) have more restricted options due to the timing of prerequisite modules.
(ii) Postgraduate Diploma Optional Modules (GI Industry strand)
Web-based GIS (EGM715) Semester 2, weeks 1-6
This module provides an introduction to programming for GIS using HTML, CSS, JavaScript and servers for web-based GI systems such as OpenLayers and Geoserver. The course introduces programming fundamentals such as web pages, customisation and GIS
applications. Students are encouraged to consider important elements of interface design to facilitate the use of GIS applications. The module culminates in the design and implementation of a website using Virtual Machines.
Spatial Analysis and Modelling (EGM716) Semester 2, weeks 1-6
This module, which builds on the overview of GIS analysis gained in modules EGM711 and EGM712, introduces concepts of spatial data analysis and modelling, including quantifying clustering and autocorrelation and understanding the impact of scale and aggregation on area-based analysis. It also aims to develop and expand expertise in statistical analysis and problem-solving in a GIS context. Further practical experience is developed of ArcGIS, ArcGIS extensions and open-source software. EGM711 and EGM712 are prerequisites for EGM716.
Photogrammetry and Advanced Image Analysis (EGM702) Semester 2, weeks 1-6
This module covers advanced topics in visible remote sensing and image analysis, including photogrammetry and digital elevation models, image processing and manipulation, advanced classification techniques such as object-based image analysis (OBIA), and time series analysis and change detection using Google Earth Engine.
Programming for GIS and Remote Sensing (EGM722) Semester 2, weeks 7-12
This module develops programming skills using the python programming language. The module seeks to provide students with key skills in the development of repeatable, automated analyses of GIS applications. The module also aims to develop academic skills in preparation for the MSc degree.
GIS in Business and Society (EGM714) Semester 2, weeks 7-12
This module investigates the GI industry from the perspective of the GI professional, the GI customer/user and the various functions and processes behind the successful implementation of GIS in real world scenarios. The module aims to give students a firm understanding of GIS in the commercial world, an appreciation of the economic and social value of spatial data and the importance of decision-based techniques in spatial analysis within GIS applications.
GIS for Environmental Management (EGM721) Semester 2, weeks 7-12
GIS has been established as a powerful environmental planning tool given the inherent geographical nature of environmental systems and the impacts on them. This optional module provides theoretical background and practical skills relevant to environmental modelling and management, with an emphasis on independent learning. The research focus of this module helps prepare students for undertaking the Masters project. EGM711 and EGM712 are prerequisites for EGM721.
GIS Work Experience (EGM725): available to students who are not in full-time employment
There is increasing emphasis within university education on preparing students for the workplace, and graduate employers place great value on relevant work experience. This module provides the opportunity to engage in a short GI-related work placement, complementing academic education with experience of working in a professional environment. This allows students to apply knowledge and skills obtained through earlier taught modules in a professional setting, contextualising classroom-based learning with real-world experience. Previous placements have been hosted by a wide range of organisations including Ordnance Survey NI and OSi, government departments, local Councils, educational institutions, charities and private businesses focusing on GIS and mapping, among others. EGM711 and EGM712 are prerequisites for EGM725.
GIS Workplace Project (EGM726): available to students who are employed in a GIS-related role
This module gives students who are already in employment the opportunity to apply knowledge and skills obtained through a combination of taught modules and experiential learning in a professional setting, undertaking a systematic analysis of the role and implementation of GIS and/or GI-related data and technologies within their workplace and to identify, develop and evaluate a project demonstrating the potential for expanded or more in-depth applications of GIS. EGM711 and EGM712 are prerequisites for EGM726.
Most of the optional modules above run for a specific 6-week period, i.e. weeks 1-6 or weeks 7-12 of Semester 2, so some module combinations are not possible as you need to select modules from both the first and second half of the semester. However, the GIS Work Experience and GIS Workplace Project modules can be arranged for either weeks 1-6 or 7-12.
(iii) Postgraduate Diploma: Environment strand
Students opting for the Environment strand take a 30 credit environmental management module in place of two of the 15 credit GIS optional modules: EITHER Biodiversity Management (EGM801) OR Environmental Impact Assessment (EGM804). These modules run in alternate years – EGM801 in 2021-22 and EGM804 in 2022-23.
Biodiversity Management (EGM801)
This module shows students how a structured approach to biodiversity assessment and habitat management can achieve effective conservation and ecological restoration at site and landscape scales, and aims to provide the scientific knowledge and skills necessary for understanding and implementing site and landscape-scale biodiversity management.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EGM804)
Environmental management plays an important part in policy, planning and decision making in government and industry. Students intending to follow careers in environmental management will need to be aware of how technical, economic and environmental considerations are taken into account in the planning and operation of projects through the use of EIA, Environmental Audits and EMS. This module provides the specific skills needed to perform the key environmental management roles in business and industry.
(iv) Masters Project Module
On completion of the Postgraduate Diploma, students may continue to the Masters course. The award of Masters requires a pass in module EGM701, the Geographic Information Systems Project. This module is intended to give scope to investigate topics of particular interest, allowing students to develop and demonstrate the ability to undertake independent research. For those who are already employed, topics may potentially include issues relevant to their workplace. The Masters project is assessed through a combination of research proposal, progress reports and final research paper (which may, with the agreement of your supervisor, be submitted for publication by an academic journal).
The following examples of recent MSc projects illustrate the breadth of potential research areas:
MODULE TIMING
Teaching takes place between late September and mid-December (semester 1) and late January to the end of April (semester 2); please note that coursework deadlines may extend until early January (semester 1) and mid-May (semester 2). Module timings for full-time and part-time students are shown below. Note that part-time students starting the course in semester 2 (January intake) have more restricted options due to the timing of prerequisite modules.
Please note that module content is reviewed and updated on an annual basis and the content described here is subject to minor modifications.
(i) Postgraduate Diploma Core Modules: GI Industry strand
Principles of GIS (EGM711) Semester 1, weeks 1-6
This module introduces the theory and practice of Geographic Information Systems, reviewing the breadth of potential GIS applications and equipping students with the key concepts and skills required relating to the input, management, manipulation, analysis and output of spatial data. Lecture-based teaching of key concepts is reinforced by linked practical exercises developing skills in ESRI’s ArcGIS. The module assumes no prior knowledge or experience of GIS.
Spatial Data Management (EGM712) Semester 1, weeks 7-12
This module builds on the knowledge and practical skills gained in EGM711 to provide further experience in the acquisition and management of spatial data. Methods for generating and integrating digital spatial data from primary and secondary sources are considered, with lecture and practical sessions looking at digitising, geo-registration, data collection (e.g. GPS and LiDAR) and using secondary sources such as the Census and government population statistics. The module also incorporates extensive practice in data handling, GIS functionality and analysis and statistics. Development of GIS software skills focuses primarily on ArcGIS, while the SPSS package is used to introduce statistical analysis of GIS data. EGM711 is a prerequisite for EGM712.
Introduction to Remote Sensing (EGM713) Semester 1, weeks 1-6
This module gives students a thorough grounding in digital remote sensing and analysis techniques. The module explores the theoretical principles of the discipline and is supported by the industry standard remote sensing software package ERDAS Imagine. Practical knowledge of remote sensing and image analysis is developed through a series of practical exercises and a project.
GIS Databases (EGM717) Semester 1, weeks 7-12
This module introduces the concept of developing a reliable spatial database for use in any organisation and provides an insight into both small scale and large scale relational spatial database management systems. A range of database skills are introduced which equip the student with knowledge of the potential and scope of databases within a range of different applications. Students are introduced to a range of open-source DBMS and GIS software including PostgreSQL, PostGIS and QGIS.
All students also choose four optional modules from the list below to complete the PgDip. Note that part-time students starting the course in semester 2 (January intake) have more restricted options due to the timing of prerequisite modules.
(ii) Postgraduate Diploma Optional Modules (GI Industry strand)
Web-based GIS (EGM715) Semester 2, weeks 1-6
This module provides an introduction to programming for GIS using HTML, CSS, JavaScript and servers for web-based GI systems such as OpenLayers and Geoserver. The course introduces programming fundamentals such as web pages, customisation and GIS
applications. Students are encouraged to consider important elements of interface design to facilitate the use of GIS applications. The module culminates in the design and implementation of a website using Virtual Machines.
Spatial Analysis and Modelling (EGM716) Semester 2, weeks 1-6
This module, which builds on the overview of GIS analysis gained in modules EGM711 and EGM712, introduces concepts of spatial data analysis and modelling, including quantifying clustering and autocorrelation and understanding the impact of scale and aggregation on area-based analysis. It also aims to develop and expand expertise in statistical analysis and problem-solving in a GIS context. Further practical experience is developed of ArcGIS, ArcGIS extensions and open-source software. EGM711 and EGM712 are prerequisites for EGM716.
Photogrammetry and Advanced Image Analysis (EGM702) Semester 2, weeks 1-6
This module covers advanced topics in visible remote sensing and image analysis, including photogrammetry and digital elevation models, image processing and manipulation, advanced classification techniques such as object-based image analysis (OBIA), and time series analysis and change detection using Google Earth Engine.
Programming for GIS and Remote Sensing (EGM722) Semester 2, weeks 7-12
This module develops programming skills using the python programming language. The module seeks to provide students with key skills in the development of repeatable, automated analyses of GIS applications. The module also aims to develop academic skills in preparation for the MSc degree.
GIS in Business and Society (EGM714) Semester 2, weeks 7-12
This module investigates the GI industry from the perspective of the GI professional, the GI customer/user and the various functions and processes behind the successful implementation of GIS in real world scenarios. The module aims to give students a firm understanding of GIS in the commercial world, an appreciation of the economic and social value of spatial data and the importance of decision-based techniques in spatial analysis within GIS applications.
GIS for Environmental Management (EGM721) Semester 2, weeks 7-12
GIS has been established as a powerful environmental planning tool given the inherent geographical nature of environmental systems and the impacts on them. This optional module provides theoretical background and practical skills relevant to environmental modelling and management, with an emphasis on independent learning. The research focus of this module helps prepare students for undertaking the Masters project. EGM711 and EGM712 are prerequisites for EGM721.
GIS Work Experience (EGM725): available to students who are not in full-time employment
There is increasing emphasis within university education on preparing students for the workplace, and graduate employers place great value on relevant work experience. This module provides the opportunity to engage in a short GI-related work placement, complementing academic education with experience of working in a professional environment. This allows students to apply knowledge and skills obtained through earlier taught modules in a professional setting, contextualising classroom-based learning with real-world experience. Previous placements have been hosted by a wide range of organisations including Ordnance Survey NI and OSi, government departments, local Councils, educational institutions, charities and private businesses focusing on GIS and mapping, among others. EGM711 and EGM712 are prerequisites for EGM725.
GIS Workplace Project (EGM726): available to students who are employed in a GIS-related role
This module gives students who are already in employment the opportunity to apply knowledge and skills obtained through a combination of taught modules and experiential learning in a professional setting, undertaking a systematic analysis of the role and implementation of GIS and/or GI-related data and technologies within their workplace and to identify, develop and evaluate a project demonstrating the potential for expanded or more in-depth applications of GIS. EGM711 and EGM712 are prerequisites for EGM726.
Most of the optional modules above run for a specific 6-week period, i.e. weeks 1-6 or weeks 7-12 of Semester 2, so some module combinations are not possible as you need to select modules from both the first and second half of the semester. However, the GIS Work Experience and GIS Workplace Project modules can be arranged for either weeks 1-6 or 7-12.
(iii) Postgraduate Diploma: Environment strand
Students opting for the Environment strand take a 30 credit environmental management module in place of two of the 15 credit GIS optional modules: EITHER Biodiversity Management (EGM801) OR Environmental Impact Assessment (EGM804). These modules run in alternate years – EGM801 in 2021-22 and EGM804 in 2022-23.
Biodiversity Management (EGM801)
This module shows students how a structured approach to biodiversity assessment and habitat management can achieve effective conservation and ecological restoration at site and landscape scales, and aims to provide the scientific knowledge and skills necessary for understanding and implementing site and landscape-scale biodiversity management.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EGM804)
Environmental management plays an important part in policy, planning and decision making in government and industry. Students intending to follow careers in environmental management will need to be aware of how technical, economic and environmental considerations are taken into account in the planning and operation of projects through the use of EIA, Environmental Audits and EMS. This module provides the specific skills needed to perform the key environmental management roles in business and industry.
(iv) Masters Project Module
On completion of the Postgraduate Diploma, students may continue to the Masters course. The award of Masters requires a pass in module EGM701, the Geographic Information Systems Project. This module is intended to give scope to investigate topics of particular interest, allowing students to develop and demonstrate the ability to undertake independent research. For those who are already employed, topics may potentially include issues relevant to their workplace. The Masters project is assessed through a combination of research proposal, progress reports and final research paper (which may, with the agreement of your supervisor, be submitted for publication by an academic journal).
The following examples of recent MSc projects illustrate the breadth of potential research areas:
- A geospatial multi-criteria decision approach to wind farm site selection
- A GIS based approach to assessing and quantifying privacy levels of residential gardens on proposed residential developments
- A GIS based Flooding Vulnerability Index for river catchments
- A GIS based model for property valuation
- A public participation geographic information system for emergency management
- A quantitative assessment of the quality of the OpenStreetMap primary route network across urban areas of Africa
- A spatial investigation into the relationship between the gas network and fuel poverty
- A spatial modelling approach to the investigation of 16th/17th Century sieges
- A study into the effectiveness of GIS in the analysis and prediction of risk towards built heritage
- Access and inequality issues in primary health care
- An assessment of the potential of biomass
- An evaluation of the ability of a GIS to model areas of potential soil carbon sequestration on a regional scale
- An evaluation of Geographic Information Systems within a Borough Council
- An evaluation of GIS for the predictive modelling and mapping of potential juvenile lamprey habitat
- An investigation into the use of GIS and high-resolution SAR data to create a national flood event database
- An investigation into the visualisation and analysis of large amounts of spatially enabled data
- An investigation of the spatial distribution of ambulance calls
- Assessing urban liveability through geographic accessibility
- Big Earth Data for near-real time deforestation monitoring: a fusion approach with Sentinel data using Google Earth Engine
- Building detection using point clouds from LiDAR and CIR imagery
- Catching the cold: an analysis of the efficiency of anti-fuel poverty schemes using GIS techniques
- Changes in Nitrogen Dioxide Levels during the Covid-19 pandemic in the 25 most populated cities in the U.S.
- Comparison of road traffic collisions using Kernel Density Estimation, Moran’s I and Getis-Ord Gi*
- COVID-19 pandemic and social vulnerability in the United States
- Detection of hedgerows and linear boundaries from Digital Surface Models
- Developing a Location Based Service to enhance learner engagement within Outdoor Education
- Development of a GIS tool for modelling noise propagation in natural ecosystems
- Effects of sea level rise on habitats of Clew Bay
- Estimating MNI: close range photogrammetry and GIS applied to the documentation of an archaeological church ossuary in Transylvania
- Evaluating the effectiveness of data fusion in producing a high-resolution multispectral land cover map of Northern Ireland
- Exploring the past with GIS: analysing the distribution and setting of Irish Megalithic tombs
- GIS in the mineral exploration industry
- Identification of areas susceptible to flooding within the Boyne catchment using frequency ratio analysis
- Identifying vulnerability of a coastline to sea level rise
- Investigating fuel poverty in Derby using remote sensing and socio-economic data
- Investigation of the suitability of GIS and remotely-sensed datasets for photovoltaic modelling on building rooftops
- Investigations into erroneous contributions in Volunteered Geographic Information: the case of OpenStreetMap
- Laser scanning versus still image photogrammetry point clouds: a comparative analysis of remotely sensed data for the subsea industry
- Mapping ecological light pollution of a landscape by vehicle headlights
- Modelling and mapping the risk of malaria using GIS and Remote Sensing by applying weighted overlay analysis
- Modelling native woodland expansion in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
- Modelling the susceptibility of coral reefs within the Seychelles archipelago in relation to coral bleaching using a GIS-based Fuzzy-Analytical Hierarchy Process and Spatial Principal Component Analysis
- Modelling the relationship between night-time light imagery and socio-economic indicators in India
- Monitoring the impact of a seawater inundation on a coastal agricultural area
- Representing the flight of refugees: a user study of thematic maps
- Sensitivity of bud burst in key tree species in the UK to recent climate variability and change
- Spatial modelling of methane emissions from agricultural livestock with consideration to future food security
- The development and application of a GIS platform for the prediction and modelling of chemical, biological, radiological and explosive cordon and evacuation distances
- The development of a GIS based hazard potential index for the overtopping of glacial lakes
- The impact of artisanal and large-scale mining on forestation in the Wassa West area, Ghana
- The Road Mobility Index (RMI): road mobility as a development indicator (a worldwide analysis)
Understanding differences between fisher ecological knowledge and Vessel Monitoring System data - Use of Land Cover Map to determine the impact of rural residential development on Broad Habitats at the landscape scale
- Using GIS and Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) for solar farm site selection
- Using GIS and Remote Sensing to map urban growth associated with socioeconomic and geopolitical change in Tartus, Syria
- Using GIS, RS and very high spatial resolution (VHSR) drone imagery to assess whether the Kutupalong-Balukhali extension site Rohingya refugee camp in the Cox’s Bazar district of Bangladesh meets UNHCR minimum standards
- Using GIS to assess noise levels in an urban environment
- Utilizing Geographical Information Systems in evaluating the accessibility of public transport supply in Dublin’s Western Periphery
- Variability in kelp biomass on the nearshore coasts of the Isles of Scilly, Cornwall, evaluated against modelled predictions, aerial imagery and environmental pressures
MODULE TIMING
Teaching takes place between late September and mid-December (semester 1) and late January to the end of April (semester 2); please note that coursework deadlines may extend until early January (semester 1) and mid-May (semester 2). Module timings for full-time and part-time students are shown below. Note that part-time students starting the course in semester 2 (January intake) have more restricted options due to the timing of prerequisite modules.
