Undergraduate study in Geographic Information Science
Learn about your undergraduate study options for Geographic Information Science.
What can you study in Geographic Information Science?
You can study Geographic Information Science (GIScience) as a major in the Bachelor of Science.
As a GIScience student you’ll be taught how to use data collected by satellites and drones, government-sourced data, and social media platforms to examine a wide range of social and natural processes. You’ll use modelling techniques to analyse data intensive contexts, and you’ll try to answer questions such as:
- What is the relationship between urban inequality and disease?
- What are the effects of sea level rise on coastal areas?
- How do resources flow across a busy public transportation system?
As part of your major you’ll complete the GIScience capstone course, GISCI 399, where you’ll use your skills to design and carry out an independent research project.
Structuring your programme
Your BSc programme will consist of a number of courses worth 15 points each, totalling 360 points.
Explore the Bachelor of Science major in Geographic Information Science schedule in the Curriculum Catalogue to find the courses you can take in this major.
You must also complete a capstone course in your final year of study. The capstone course is a student-led project where you integrate and apply your learning to a real-world problem in your chosen major or specialisation. For Geographic Information Science we recommend the capstone course, GISCI 399. For other capstone options, see our Capstone courses page.
Complementary majors
- Computer Science
- Earth Sciences
- Environmental Science
- Geography
- Geophysics
- Information and Technology Management
- Marine Science
- Statistics
Where can undergraduate study in Geographic Information Science take you?
As a GIScience graduate you’ll possess sound theoretical knowledge and demonstrate independent technical proficiency across the social, ecological and physical domains of GIScience application. You’ll be well prepared to enter the workforce in both public and private sectors, or pursue postgraduate study.
Jobs related to GIScience
- Analyst
- Cartographer
- Climate scientist
- Conservationist
- Geographer
- Geospatial database developer
- Mapping and surveying technician
- Programmer
- Surveyor
Further study options
Preparing for your Geographic Information Science major
Some students will feel more prepared for our GIScience courses if they have already studied certain subjects in high school.
You may feel more prepared for your GIScience major if you have studied Digital Technologies, Geography and Statistics.
Scholarships and awards
Each year we award scholarships and prizes to thousands of students.
Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for, search available scholarships or begin an application by visiting Scholarships and awards.
Help and advice
Student Hubs
Visit a Student Hub for help and advice on any aspect of your studies and life at University.
The Student Hubs are your physical gateway to Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland.
Student Hub services are available seven days a week at the City, Grafton and Tai Tonga campuses and six days a week at Tai Tokerau, with friendly staff available to provide you with advice on any aspect of your studies and life at the University.