Fundamentals of Spatial Information
PostgraduateTAS-KGG5392027
Course information for 2027 intake
Enrol today with instant approval and no entry requirements
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Enrol by
- 14 Feb 2027
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR needed, No prior study
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Start dates
- 22 Feb 2027
- Price from
- $3,571
- Upfront cost
- $0
- Loan available
- FEE-HELP available
Fundamentals of Spatial Information
About this subject
On successful completion of this subject, students will be able to:
- Discuss the different types of spatial information that are most relevant or appropriate given a particular scenario.
- Create new spatial datasets that comply with current standards and conventions.
- Employ spatial analysis techniques to interpret and derive new information to solve spatially oriented problems.
- Analyse, interpret and visualise spatial datasets using GIS and other software packages.
- Communicate and synthesise complex spatial information using written, cartographic, and other visual means.
- Introduction to spatial information
- Coordinates and projections
- Spatial data sources and georeferencing
- Vectors
- Joins and queries
- Vector Analysis
- Metadata and Ethics in GIS
- Rasters and Raster Analysis
- Cartographic foundations and maps
- Advanced cartography
- Data and maps
- The Future of Geospatial
This subject is designed to provide students studying at the graduate level with a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of spatial information. This subject will introduce students to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and landscape metrics analysis, with a focus on skills development and problem solving. By providing a broad overview of the fundamental forms of spatial data and the applications it can be used for, students will develop a basic skill set in spatial analysis and data handling. This subject is offered at the graduate level and applies spatial concepts through a series of assessments based on an ecological case study, although it is designed for students who have not previously worked with or studied spatial information. Students will explore the fundamental concepts underpinning spatial information, and how to represent variables in a spatial way. Throughout the subject, the potential of spatial information to solve a variety of problems is investigated. This is done in conjunction with computer-based exercises designed to build a strong technical skill set. Concepts that will be introduced include: spatial referencing systems, types of spatial data, creating new datasets, basic image analysis, and data visualisation through maps.
- Georeferencing and Digitising (25%)
- Raster Analysis and Cartography (40%)
- Vector Analysis and Metadata (35%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
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Entry requirements
No entry requirements
Equivalent subjects
You won't be able to enrol into this subject if you've already successfully completed or currently enrolled in the following subject(s) as they are considered anti-requisites due to the similarity of the content.
Additional requirements
- Software requirements - This subject is technical in nature and requires students to use computer software to complete a range of GIS tasks of increasing complexity. Students who do not have basic knowledge of PC operation and familiarity with Windows should contact the Unit Coordinator (Mark.Williams@utas.edu.au) prior to enrolment. Online modes of study will have online access to the software via a virtual lab. A personal computer and a stable home internet connection with minimum upload and download speeds of 1.5 Mbps are essential for all students. If you are unable to meet these requirements, please contact the Unit Coordinator (Mark.Williams@utas.edu.au) before enrolling.
- Other requirements - Teaching Arrangements: On-campus students are required to attend timetabled classes on campus. Online students must follow the timetabled classes (held at the same time as on-campus classes), and participate in weekly seminars and practical sessions via Zoom.
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
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