Geographic Data Science Birkbeck, University of London

Overview

This postgraduate course in Geographic Data Science equips students with essential skills in data science, machine learning, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). It is tailored to those eager to analyse and interpret geospatial data, unveiling the intricate patterns that shape urban and natural environments. The curriculum is designed to enhance your quantitative analysis capabilities, enabling you to tackle questions related to spatial, environmental, and geographic social science topics. By the end of the programme, students will possess the tools necessary to analyse extensive datasets and utilise machine learning algorithms for predictive modelling.

Why Geographic Data Science at Birkbeck, University of London?

Birkbeck stands out as a pioneer in Geographic Information Science (GIScience), having taught this subject for over three decades. The university is ranked highly for its research-led teaching, with an international faculty renowned for their expertise in areas such as Big Data analytics, remote sensing, spatial analysis, and urban simulation. The course is designed with the working professional in mind, featuring evening classes to accommodate diverse schedules. Additionally, students benefit from access to a wealth of resources, including industry-standard software like Esri ArcGIS and hundreds of LinkedIn Learning courses related to data science and GIS.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the Geographic Data Science programme are as follows:

• Full-time international students: £22,230 per year
• Part-time international students: £11,115 per year
• Full-time home students: £12,000 per year
• Part-time home students: £6,000 per year

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

Syllabus

The Geographic Data Science programme comprises a range of modules that provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students will complete the following compulsory modules:

• Geospatial Programming and Spatial Machine Learning
• Introduction to Geographic Data Science
• Spatial Data Analytics

Additionally, students can choose from various option modules, such as:

• Environmental Observation by Remote Sensing
• GeoAI for Social and Urban Applications

The course culminates in a dissertation, allowing students to engage in independent research on a topic of their choice within the field.

Careers with Geographic Data Science

Graduates of the Geographic Data Science programme will be well-prepared for diverse career paths across multiple sectors. They will acquire transferable skills such as evaluating digital information, working with large datasets, and applying machine learning concepts. Alumni have successfully secured positions in government agencies like Transport for London (TfL), private sector firms such as Esri, and retail giants like John Lewis. The comprehensive careers service at Birkbeck supports students in navigating their career journeys, helping them connect their educational experiences with future ambitions.