Geographic Information Science
About GIS and Our GIS Programs
Former Students
Degrees and Units Offered
Geographic Information Science (GIScience) explores the way spatial information is derived and used. The field covers a wide range of technologies including geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, global positioning systems, surveying, and digital aerial photography. GIS expertise is in high demand by employers in a wide variety of fields. The programs of study at Macquarie focus on geographic information systems and the capture and management of spatial data, manipulation and analysis, querying and visualisation. The program is designed to combine studies in GIS with supportive study in environmental science, physical geography, resource management, geology and biology. Students can also select a limited number of units of interest in other areas.
Geographic databases can be created for environmental management, biological studies, research of social issues, planning and development, resource management, and geological research and exploration. Other applications include health, natural hazards, environmental programs in industry and research, as well as commercial applications including marketing. GIS are a major source of information in public policy decision-making.
About our programs
Macquarie University has an excellent GIS program using the latest computer software and based on an international curriculum. In all GIS units there is an emphasis on practical work, enhancing the development of skills and problem solving abilities.
There are many study options in GIS at Macquarie:
(a) by completing a coherent (major) studies in GIS in a BSc or BA degree. This program combines studies in GIS with studies in related areas chosen by the student (see below).
(b) by including GIS in a BSc, BA, BEnv, BMarSc or BSocSc degree program. This path allows students to study GIS units, with a wide range of units from related areas of study.
(c) as a graduate undertaking a Graduate Diploma in GIS.
(d) On completion of an undergraduate program in GIS, it is possible for students to continue their studies by undertaking honours and postgraduate study. Postgraduate units are also available for inclusion in other Certificate, Diploma and Masters (by coursework) programs.
Click here to access further details on our GIS coherency and other GIS programs.
Former Students
John Armston
John completed a Bachelor of Science majoring in ecology and GIS/remote sensing. His current position is with NR&M's Climate Impacts and Natural Resource Systems. He works on the Statewide Landcover and Trees Study (SLATS) which derives quantitative data on change in woody vegetation cover and density over the entire state of Queensland using satellite remote sensing (www.nrm.qld.gov.au/slats). John says he enjoyed the GIS/remote sensing program at Macquarie Univerity as it allowed him to develop skills applicable to the spatial analysis of biodiversity at an undergraduate level, and also provided a foundation for further studies in remote sensing.
Leo Lymburner
Leo's studies included a Bachelor of Science, majoring in atmospheric science and plant ecophysiology, and an honours year in remote sensing and GIS. His current position is at CSIRO's Division of Land and Water, as part of a research team examining Australia's vegetation, and facilitating precision agriculture. The tasks he completes are diverse and challenging, including using the latest remote sensing software, and fieldwork. Leo advises: "Students should take advantage of the flexibility provided by the course structure at Macquarie, as it potentially allows access to a greater number of jobs".
Mike Katz
Mike completed a Bachelor of Science majoring in atmospheric science and GIScience. He chose Macquarie University because it allowed him the flexibility to combine several areas of science that he was interested in. Mike says: "I am currently employed as a Mitigation Officer in the Warringah Pittwater District of the NSW Rural Fire Service. The focus of my job is to manage GIS operations, to plan and implement hazard reduction works, and develop strategies for suppression activities during major bush fires. My GIS studies enabled me to develop a comprehensive GIS of bush fire data for the District, including a 3-D model for bush fire simulation."
Sandy Wellington
Sandy studied for her Bachelor of Science part time. She completed majors in zoology and conservation biology, but continued GIScience study and completed another major in this area. Since graduating she has been working in the GIS Division of National Parks and Wildlife Service, creating fire management plan maps for Sydney Harbour NP and Myall Lakes NP, modelling wildfire potential, and working on the NPWS Wildlife Atlas.
Nicola Lewis
Nicola completed a science degree with a double major in GIScience and human geography. She is now employed as a Research Officer at the NSW Cancer Council, producing scientific reports and maps of the geographic distribution of cancer incidence. This position uses her human geography background and applies courses in GIScience, medical geography, biology, statistics, computing and environmental science. Nicola enjoys the variety in her work, applying knowledge gained at university, and working in cancer research.