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MSC GEOGRAP.INFORMATION SYSTEMS & REMOTE SENSING
This 1-year full-time MSc develops technical expertise in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing. You'll learn to how to process, analyse, and present spatial data effectively for a wide range of applications.
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- Qualification
- Master Of Science Degree
- CAO/MU Apply code
- MHN58
- Award Type and NFQ level
- TAUGHT MASTERS (9)
- Study Mode
- Full time
- Closing Date
- 27 August 2027
Overview
The MSc in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing provides students with the skills to manage, analyse, and interpret the rapidly increasing volumes of spatial data now available across research, industry, and society. The programme develops technical expertise in GIS and Remote Sensing, enabling students to process, analyse, and present spatial data effectively for a wide range of applications.
The programme is structured around GIS and Remote Sensing in equal measure, with four core modules introducing the theory and practice of both areas at introductory and advanced levels. GIS is widely used across the physical and social sciences, and increasingly in the humanities, with applications in areas such as archaeology, astronomy, geomorphology, globalisation, soil science, and social planning. Remote Sensing—focused on the analysis and interpretation of aerial and satellite imagery—offers a synoptic view of the Earth that has transformed our understanding of atmospheric and oceanic processes, environmental management, and human–environment interactions. It is now a standard research tool in fields including geology, pollution control, agriculture, geography, and climatology.
Students can further develop their technical skills through optional modules in Programming, Spatial Databases, and Marine Remote Sensing. All students also undertake a summer work placement, providing valuable practical experience and an opportunity to apply and test the skills acquired throughout the course.
The MSc in GIS and Remote Sensing is accredited by both the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) in the UK. Graduates are eligible to progress along the pathway to become Chartered Geomatics Surveyors.
Aims of the Course
- To train highly qualified graduates in GIS, Remote Sensing, and Digital Image Processing, with the ability to apply these skills professionally.
- To produce graduates equipped to contribute to GIS and Remote Sensing application areas across industry, government, academia, and the community and voluntary sector.
- To provide a strong understanding of GIS and Remote Sensing technologies and their applications to specific investigations.
Commences: September
If you would like to receive updates about this programme, upcoming events, and postgraduate scholarships at Maynooth University, you can register your interest here.
Course structure
Duration: 1 year full-time
The course consists of six modules, five of which are compulsory. Two of these cover the theoretical concepts underpinning GIS and Remote Sensing. Two other modules involve gaining the theoretical and technical skills necessary to become proficient in the management and analysis of spatial data. A fifth module involves an assessed work placement during the summer months.
Disclaimer
The modules below are indicative of the content associated with this course of study.
The modules are subject to change as the curriculum is revised and reviewed annually.
Important: The information on this page is for prospective students, MU current students and staff should use Programme Directory.
Careers after your Masters
The MSc in GIS and Remote Sensing is first and foremost a course to skill students for work in a wide range of employment areas. These include a wide range of government and semi-state agencies, local authorities and the voluntary sector, especially in areas associated with the environment and planning. In addition, graduates have worked in a wide range of private sector organisations and businesses, where the ability to work with and critically managed big spatial data is increasingly valued. Successful students have also proceeded to PhD level research and gained employment in academia.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must hold a minimum of a Bachelor Honours degree (NFQ Level 8) (or equivalent) with a minimum of a Second-Class Honours, Grade 1 (2:1) in Geography or a related discipline such as Planning, Physics, Computer Science, Geology, Mathematics, English and Geophysics.
If you do not meet the standard entry requirements then you may be eligible to apply under the University's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy. Please click here for further information.
Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see here.
How to apply
Applications must be made via the MU Apply portal. Please click here to start your application.
When making your application, please ensure you prepare any documents listed below. You may be required to submit documents in two stages. You will be required to upload and submit the following documents with your application:
- Full academic transcripts for all semesters/ years completed to date
- Graduation Certificate if you have graduated
- A copy of your passport
- Up to date CV
You will be required to upload the following documents after you submit your application:
- Personal Statement (minimum 500 words on why you would like to study your chosen programme)
- Academic Reference
If English is not your first language, you may be required to upload evidence of English language proficiency. For information please click here.