Newcastle University

Surveying and Mapping Science BSc Honours
UCAS Code: H244 (3 Years)

• Course Overview
• Modules
• Entry Requirements
• Careers
• Finance

Surveying and mapping uses state-of-the-art technology and mathematical-based analysis to study the built and natural environments. This allows us to go beyond simply observing the world around us, to collecting and analysing data about it. The application of the data we collect is huge, from using lasers to make 3D models of buildings for construction projects, to using satellite positioning to model environmental changes.

This degree is part of a subject called Geomatics. Geomatics spans geography, science, mathematics and ICT. It is a fascinating area of study for anyone who has enjoyed these subjects at A level or equivalent. This degree is mathematically-oriented and will appeal to students with an interest in engineering, technology and the environment. 

Our Surveying and Mapping Science degree focuses on the science, technology and maths behind geographic data collection and analysis. GPS, land surveying, and even offshore surveying, are used to map the earth’s surface providing vital information to scientists, engineers, companies and governments.

You are introduced to the subject area through outdoor and computer-based practical work and learn a wide range of geographic techniques such as engineering surveying, 3D laser scanning and mobile map-making. 

The degree is very hands on, with plenty of opportunities to use our state-of-the-art equipment from your first year. In your final year, advanced specialist modules in areas like law and land use, and geohazards, prepare you for your future career.

This combination of practical skills and specialist knowledge makes our graduates attractive to employers. Our graduates work all over the world in a range of organisations, including specialist land, air and offshore mapping; government agencies; cartographic publishers; and engineering companies.

Study Surveying and Mapping Science at Newcastle and benefit from:

• professional accreditation for your degree from two industry associations, putting you on the path to chartered surveyor status
• high levels of practical and field work
• an exceptional employment rate
• an excellent working relationship with the teaching and research staff

Professional accreditation

This degree is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES).

Newcastle is unique in the UK in having this dual accreditation for its geomatics degrees.

This means that you graduate with a degree that meets the standards set by the industry.

Teaching and assessment

You usually study six modules per semester, with an average weekly timetable comprising approximately 20 contact hours. Each module involves around two one-hour lectures per week, together with several field/computer practicals of around three hours each during the semester. 

Each module is usually assessed by a final examination, plus two to four pieces of course work based on the practical classes. You also receive informal non-assessed feedback on your progress. Teaching and assessment methods may vary from module to module; more information can be found in our individual module listings.

Fieldwork

This degree is very hands on, with plenty of opportunities to start using our state-of-the-art equipment from your first year.

You will take part in regular practicals in and around Newcastle, as well having opportunities to attend residential field courses. These include:

• Stage 1 residential field course in the Lake District where your task will be to map the Borrowdale Valley
• Stage 2 visiting organisations where surveying, mapping and GIS are being used, for example, the British Antarctic Survey or British Geological Survey
• Stage 3 eight-day Advanced Survey fieldcourse, which will draw on study material from Stages 1 and 2 to introduce you to a real-world surveying problem. This will give you the chance to test your skills in precise monitoring, control, data capture and road design

Industry-standard equipment

Technology is improving all the time and we recognise the importance of our graduates leaving University with industry-ready skills. That is why we're committed to constantly updating our pool of equipment to make sure you learn with the very latest instrumentation.

You will have access to an exceptional pool of advanced industry-standard field and computer laboratory equipment, including 3D laser scanners, GPS and electronic survey equipment, satellite imagery and industry-standard computer software, which you will use from your first year.

You will also receive a starter pack containing key text books and essential equipment.

Strong industry links

Newcastle has strong industry links with a variety of companies in the land survey, offshore survey and GIS sectors. The strength of these links is reflected in the availability of work placements, sponsorship opportunities and excellent graduate jobs for our students.

Newcastle has a proven track record for graduate employment – 100% of our 2011 UK and EU geomatics graduates progressed to work or further study six months after graduating (DLHE data).

School of Civil Engineering and Geosciences

As a geomatics student at Newcastle, you will join a close-knit community within the School of Civil Engineering and Geosciences. We provide a peer mentoring scheme and a personal tutor system, to help you settle into university life.

The atmosphere within the School is extremely friendly, beginning with a teambuilding field trip in North Yorkshire in the first week.

There are a lot of practicals throughout the year and at all Stages of the degree you will work together in groups, giving you the chance to get to know your fellow students and staff really well.

You will also enjoy a high level of contact time, around 20–25 hours per week, with lots of support available to help you make the most of your time with us.

All our students have access to an exceptional range of facilities equipped with a wide range of analytical instrumentation supporting our teaching. Visit the School's website to take a virtual tour of some of the laboratories.