Geographic Information and Climate Change Swansea University

Overview

The MSc in Geographic Information and Climate Change at Swansea University is a postgraduate taught degree that combines advanced geographic information systems (GIS) skills with a deep understanding of climate change science and impacts. You’ll learn how to use GIS and spatial data analytics to model, visualise and interpret environmental and climate-related data, tools that are widely used in research, planning, environmental monitoring and policy. The programme integrates practical training in GIS software and spatial analysis with modules on climate dynamics, vulnerability assessment and environmental decision-making, giving you the technical and analytical expertise to address real-world challenges related to climate change adaptation, sustainability and resource management.

Why Geographic Information and Climate Change at Swansea?

Swansea University is ranked among the top 100 institutions globally for its environmental sciences programme, according to the Shanghai Ranking Subject Rankings 2024. The university's commitment to research excellence is evident, with 90% of its research outputs recognised as world-leading or internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021. The MSc in Geographic Information and Climate Change is also accredited by the Royal Geographical Society, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that is respected in the field. Students benefit from the university's strong partnerships and state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced computing resources such as the IBM ‘Blue Ice’ supercomputer, which is primarily used for climate and glaciological modelling. The faculty comprises leading experts in environmental dynamics and climate change, including professors who have made significant contributions to climate research, ensuring students learn from the best in the field.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the MSc in Geographic Information and Climate Change are as follows:

• UK Students: £11,700 per year
• International Students: £24,300 per year
• Part-time options are also available with fees varying by year of study.

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

Syllabus

The programme consists of compulsory and optional modules, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests. Compulsory modules include:

• Environmental Remote Sensing (20 credits)
• Geographical Information Systems (20 credits)
• Environmental Modelling (20 credits)
• Climate Change - Past, Present and Future (20 credits)

Students can also select optional modules such as:

• Advanced Techniques in Biodiversity Assessment (20 credits)
• Environmental Dynamics (20 credits)
• Ecosystems: Ecology, Conservation & Resource Management (20 credits)

A dissertation project is also a key component of the course, allowing students to engage in independent research.

Industry Demand

Graduates of the MSc in Geographic Information and Climate Change are well-positioned for careers in various sectors, including environmental consulting, government agencies, and non-profit organisations focused on sustainability and climate action. The skills acquired during the programme are in high demand across industries that require expertise in geographic information systems and climate science.

Careers with Geographic Information and Climate Change

Alumni of the programme have secured positions in reputable organisations, demonstrating the degree's value in the job market. Examples of roles held by graduates include:

• Environmental Monitoring Officer at Natural Resources Wales
• Geographical Data Processor at Western Power Distribution
• Graduate Statutory Orders Specialist at Jacobs
• Catchment Scientist at Welsh Water
• Data Analyst at PHS Group

The comprehensive training provided by the MSc equips students with the necessary skills to thrive in their chosen careers, making them competitive candidates in the job market.