Overview

The Geographic Information Systems programme at the University of Otago provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the science of mapping and spatial analysis. This course integrates academic theory with practical applications to help students solve complex geographic problems using modern digital technologies.

Studying Geographic Information Systems at the University of Otago allows students to learn within the National School of Surveying. This department is renowned for its excellent facilities and teaching staff who are recognised leaders in spatial sciences. The school offers a collaborative environment where students work alongside peers from diverse fields such as Marine Science, Ecology, and Geology.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: NZD 43750 per year
National fee: NZD 10891 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to build from foundational science to advanced spatial techniques. Modules may include:

Year 1

Computer Programming
Fundamentals of Modern Mathematics 1
Fundamentals of Modern Mathematics 2
Surveying and Spatial Science
Information Systems

Year 2

Database Systems
Geographic Information Science
Software Development
Web, Databases, and Networks

Year 3

3D Reality Capture
Spatial Algorithms and Programming
Spatial Analysis and Visualisation
Remote Sensing Technologies

Year 4

Geovisualisation
Cartography
Advanced Remote Sensing
Photogrammetry

Careers with Geographic Information Systems

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in a rapidly expanding global market. Many find employment as GIS or Remote Sensing operators, analysts, and managers within both the public and private sectors. The skills acquired are highly valued by local, regional, and national government bodies for urban planning and environmental monitoring.

Opportunities also exist within large corporations and specialist consultancy firms. Graduates may work in fields such as wildlife management, identifying the distribution of endangered species, or in regional councils analysing landslip risks and flood mitigation. The programme also provides a strong foundation for those wishing to launch their own businesses in the spatial information industry.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Remote Sensing Technologies

Advanced Spatial Analysis and Modelling

Geovisualisation and Cartography

Resource Mapping and Image Processing

Spatial Analysis and Programming

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-07-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-04-30 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-06-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-02-22 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-15 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-10 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

80

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6

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Credits

120 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Dunedin, New Zealand

Disciplines

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) View 7 other Masters in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) in New Zealand

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

80

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Entrance requirements for postgraduate study vary by programme with most requiring a minimum bachelor-level qualification in the same field, and some having additional requirements such as relevant work experience and/or professional registration in New Zealand
The documents detailed above (academic transcripts, ECE, and proof of identity).
A detailed research proposal that shows you are familiar with current literature surrounding your topic.
An up-to date curriculum vitae.
The name of the academic staff member who has agreed to be your supervisor.
An approximate start date

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of Otago and/or in New Zealand, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

43750 NZD / year

≈ 43750 NZD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

10891 NZD / year

≈ 10891 NZD / year

Living costs

Dunedin

New Zealand

1000 - 2300 NZD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Geographic Information Systems.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Living costs

Dunedin

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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