Geomatics (Surveying & Mapping) (DT112) – (B.Sc.)

Have you ever wondered about the technology behind GPS navigation in cars, how flood warning and disaster management systems work, or how tunnels can be excavated from two different places and still meet precisely in the middle? If so, then consider a career in Geomatics and the four year B.Sc. (Hons) degree that leads to a career in this exciting profession.

Geomatics involves the measurement and analysis of spatial data and plays a key role in the planning and management of our national territory. DIT is the only third level institution in Ireland to offer a full-time degree in Geomatics and is the centre of excellence in this field. The four year (eight semester) programme is practically focused and includes work placement in semester five. There is high demand for graduates on the Irish and international job markets.

Geomatics involves three fields of activity - Spatial Data Provision, Spatial Information Management and Land Management. Spatial Data Provision involves the collection of data relating to the Earth (spatial data). Instruments such as GPS receivers, terrestrial airborne and spaceborne cameras and scanners, electronic distance and angle measuring instruments (total stations) and much more, are used to collect precise data which is then processed to create digital maps and 3D models of our landscape for development, monitoring and planning. Such data collection may take place on or under the earth´s surface, or off-shore.

Spatial Information Management takes the collected data and generates optimised geographical information for a wide range of applications. This involves 3D modelling, computer visualisation, analysis in Geographic Information System (GIS) and delivery of the results and products to the client.
The third activity of Geomatics is Land Management. This deals with the four main national Land Administration systems - Land Value for Taxation, Land Tenure for ownership of property, Land Use for Planning, and Land Development for Construction and Conservation.

Graduates of the programme demonstrate high intellectual ability, good problem solving and communication skills, and high spatial awareness. Competence in the practical use of a wide range of advanced surveying instrumentation and software for measuring and processing spatial data is also guaranteed.
The Department has well-equipped laboratories and the latest equipment to cater for all practical aspects of the programme. Fieldwork and coursework account for a significant proportion of module assessment. In the seventh semester, the student individually undertakes a major dissertation (or research project) on a Geomatics related topic. The degree programme also includes modules in environmental management, business & project management, and legal studies.

The paid work placement module in semester five aims to enhance the practical abilities developed in the early years of the programme, prior to undertaking more analytical studies in semesters six to eight. The module also aims to develop an understanding and appreciation of the professional standards required by the sector. It also provides students with an ideal opportunity to establish links with industry and to evaluate potential career directions.

The Department has links with several European universities under the Erasmus/Socrates programmes. This facilitates the exchange of staff and students for research and study abroad. Opportunities also exist for postgraduate studies in DIT in other Irish institutions and abroad. These options have already been selected by many of our recent graduates.