MSc Geographical Information Systems

This program emphasizes the growing significance of GIS in various industries, including supply chain management, insurance, urban planning, and government agencies. It aims to develop professionals capable of integrating geospatial data to inform strategic decision-making processes. ​

Curriculum: The curriculum offers flexibility, allowing students to tailor their learning experience. Core modules introduce GIS packages and database systems applicable in business, health, and planning settings. Optional modules enable students to specialize in areas such as geodemographics, retail planning, wilderness, and remote sensing. The program also includes a dissertation project, fostering independent research skills. 

Research Focus: The University of Leeds integrates globally renowned research into the program, ensuring that students engage with the latest developments in critical areas like geodemographics and remote sensing. This research-led approach enhances the learning experience by providing insights into contemporary challenges and innovations in GIS. ​

Industry Engagement: The program's practical orientation prepares students for diverse career opportunities in both private and public sectors. By introducing GIS packages and database systems used in various settings, the course equips students with skills directly applicable to industry needs, thereby enhancing their employability. ​

Global Perspective: The MSc attracts a diverse cohort, fostering a global learning environment. The curriculum's focus on both socioeconomic and environmental applications of GIS ensures that graduates are well-prepared to address global challenges using geospatial technologies.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements:

• Academic Qualifications: International students applying for postgraduate programs at the University of Leeds are generally required to have a minimum academic achievement of 55% or above in their previous studies. This requirement may vary depending on the course and country of origin.
• English Language Proficiency: Similar to undergraduate programs, international students applying for postgraduate programs must demonstrate their English language proficiency. The required English language test scores are as follows:
  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component score below 6.0.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88, with no individual component score below 19.
  • PTE: A minimum overall score of 64, depending on the course, with no individual component score below 60.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Leeds offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities to support students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are awarded based on various criteria such as academic excellence, financial need, and specific areas of study. 

Dean's Business School Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically for undergraduate students applying to the Leeds University Business School. It offers a cash award of up to £2,000 per year of study, based on academic achievement and potential.

Leeds Masters Scholarships: These scholarships are available for UK/EU and international students pursuing a master's degree at the University of Leeds. The scholarships cover partial tuition fees and are awarded based on academic excellence.

Research Scholarships: The University of Leeds also offers research scholarships for students pursuing a Ph.D. or research-based master's program. These scholarships provide funding for tuition fees and living expenses.

Graduates of the MSc Geographical Information Systems program from the University of Leeds have diverse and promising career opportunities in fields related to GIS, spatial analysis, and geographic information technology. 

GIS Analyst: Graduates can work as GIS analysts, collecting, managing, and analyzing spatial data to support decision-making in fields like urban planning and environmental assessment.

Cartographer: Graduates can become cartographers, creating maps and visualizations for navigation, environmental monitoring, and geographic information communication.

Spatial Data Scientist: Graduates can work as spatial data scientists, using GIS and analytical techniques to extract insights from geospatial datasets for business and research purposes.

Environmental Consultant: Graduates can work in environmental consulting, using GIS to assess environmental impact, plan conservation efforts, and manage natural resources.

Urban Planner: Graduates can work as urban planners, using GIS to design sustainable cities, manage land use, and optimize transportation networks.

Geospatial Technologist: Graduates can pursue roles in geospatial technology companies, developing GIS software, remote sensing technologies, and data visualization tools.