Geographical Information Science (GIS) involves computer-based systems which allow you to explore, store and manipulate data that has a spatial or geographic component. GIS relates to the concepts behind the creation of these systems and the conceptualisation of spatial problems. GIS can be used effectively in research and is in high demand in the public and private sector. It is currently used in many areas such as crime mapping, disaster management, marketing, healthcare access, conservation monitoring and archaeology. The key ideas of GIS are the storage and spatial and non-spatial analysis of large amounts of geographic information, as well as the visual interpretation and presentation of that information in a manner that makes sense to us - most commonly in maps. The MGIS and PGDipGIS programmes provide full time and part time opportunities for students with an interest and background in Geographic Information Science. Students must be resident in either Christchurch, Wellington or Auckland, New Zealand, in order to attend classes at either Canterbury University, Victoria University of Wellington or Auckland University of Technology. The programme aims to provide a model for exceptional collaborative teaching and research, using new technology and media to enhance the learning experience for students. The program will use a blended learning approach, involving synchronous seminars and labs (via the KAREN network), residential intensive sessions, and online synchronous and asynchronous learning support. Once a year, students will be brought together for a one week gathering, which will serve to introduce the programme and enable a week of intensive teaching for the ‘GIS401 Foundations of GI Science’ course. The current programme has two qualifications on offer: a Postgraduate Diploma of Geographic Information Science (PGDipGIS) and a Masters in Geographic Information Science (MGIS). The qualifications provided include a range of courses covering geoinformation processing, analysis, visualisation and applications, as well as the one week intensive course at the field station in Kaikoura. GIS is a valuable resource for Geography and can also complement courses taken in Biology, Statistics, Architecture, Earth Sciences, Computer Science and Information Management.

GIS can be used effectively in research and is in high demand in the public and private sector. It is currently used in many areas such as crime mapping, disaster management, marketing, healthcare access, conservation monitoring and archaeology.