Geomatics degree programmes at the School of Civil Engineering and Geosciences.

An essential part of the degree courses in both Surveying and Mapping Science, and Geographic Information Science for first year undergraduates is the week long annual residential field trip, which for a number of years has taken place at Glaramara.

What is geomatics?

It refers to the sciences and involved in handling geographical data about the Earth. Land surveying techniques are part of geomatics, as is managing data which has been captured in computer-based information systems such as GIS (Geographical Information Systems). Measurement, management and presentation are key components.

• An eclectic mix of questions to ponder:
• Do you know how a map is made?
• What do those people with tripods on building sites really do?
• Do you enjoy looking at pictures of the Earth from space?
• Is it true that the Earth’s continents move about?
• Can we accurately measure the growth of people’s teeth?
• How can we tell exactly where we are in the middle of the oceans?

These are all questions that can be investigated by geomaticians. Use is made of a variety of techniques to obtain data. These include field surveying using theodolites, levels and electro-magnetic distance measuring systems to obtain information about the positions and attributes of places and features. These skills are learnt as part of the Glaramara residential.

Degree structure

Both degree programmes extend over three Stages, with each Stage corresponding to one academic year.

Stage 1 common to both programmes:

Surveying covers an introduction to land surveying and techniques of measurement in the field.

Geographic information includes an examination of the data which appears on maps.

Information technology introduces the role of computers including programming in Visual Basic.

Photogrammetry and remote sensing deals with measurement from aerial photographs and satellite images for mapping purposes.

The Field trip to Glaramara puts into practice techniques learnt during the year. This essentially involves mapping the wettest place in England, Seathwaite Valley at scale 1:1000 by

• establishing co-ordinates and height above sea level at various valley points
• surveying the valley using the high tech. measuring equipment and systems provided by the University
• feeding back the days findings during eventing lectures and workshops
• creating a chart based upon the findings
• Quantitative methods for geomatics considers the basic mathematical constructs needed in geomatics.
• An introduction to GPS and its applications looks at positioning using satellite technology and the Global
• Positioning System (GPS).
• Integrated design examines the role of geomatics in engineering and environmental projects.
• Further modules are taken in mathematics, depending on previous qualifications.

In stages 2 and 3 Surveying and Mapping Science students generally take modules which emphasize spatial data measurement, manipulation and analysis. Those students, therefore, with an interest in engineering, technology and the environment are encouraged to follow this degree programme whereas Geographic Information Science students generally take modules that emphasize spatial data modelling, management and presentation. Those students, therefore, with an interest in computing, mapping and geography are encouraged to follow this degree programme

Much more information is available on the Department website, www.ceg.ncl.ac.uk/undergrad/geomatics/geomatics.htm including information on career opportunities, entrance criteria, fees and how to apply.

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