Studying Geoinformatics

UNIGIS Master of Science (MSc)

tailored to your needs
supported by tutors
study at home

UNIGIS Salzburg
modular
applied
online

EDUCATING GIS PROFESSIONALS WORLDWIDE

INTERFACULT Y DEPARTMENT OF GEOINFORMATICS – Z_GIS, UNIVERSIT Y OF SALZBURG

UNIGIS MSc

Welcome!
Academic education is indispensible in domains that are as dynamic as Geoinformatics. Conceptual foundations
develop together with the fast evolving technologies. Life-long learning thus is an opportunity as much as it is a
necessity.

UNIGIS is designed as an online academic program that is delivered to GI-professionals:

to provide a solid, conceptual foundation for the acquired professional experience,

to settle into an attractive sector of growing industry,
to balance the study program with career and family,
IMPRESSUM:
to study at the prestigious Department of Geoinformatics – Z_GIS at the University of Salzburg, and
to earn an academic Degree as formal qualification. University of Salzburg
Department of Geoinformatics - Z_GIS
Schillerstraße 30, Bauteil 12, 2.Stock
A-5020 Salzburg
Applying for a UNIGIS distance-learning program needs careful consideration. However, if you decide for this path
of your personal and professional future, we assure our full engagement and long-term experience to support E-Mail: unigis.office@sbg.ac.at
you towards this aim! > www.unigis.at/en

Version: October 2020

The study program UNIGIS MSc is accredited by AQ-Austria as Degree program on an advanced scientific level
as a stepping stone for your career.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gudrun Wallentin

Program Director

2
 EDUCATING GIS PROFESSIONALS WORLDWIDE

UNIGIS in a nutshell Foto: © Fotolia.com - contrastwerkstatt

W
ith UNIGIS, the University of Salzburg offers Both study programs provide students with a sound
internationally recognised postgraduate quali- UNIGIS professional conceptual basis and a comprehensive set of application-
fications in Geoinformatics. UNIGIS study pro- (1 year) oriented skills in geoinformatics. These competences have
grams are designed as academic education programs for for those, who are eager to get a comprehensive overview proven to be indispensible qualifications in many domains.
of the methods and tools in Geographic Information
working professionals with flexible and innovative forms
Technologies.
of distance learning. UNIGIS is designed as an online, distance-learning study
Details: > www.unigis.at/en/unigis-prof
format to facilitate self-paced learning. This enables
UNIGIS started in 1990 with the vision of offering distance UNIGIS students to study next to the obligations in their
learning programs in Geographical Information Systems professional or private lives. UNIGIS participants study
and Science to professionals worldwide. The University of from home or from their workplace, communicate with
Salzburg is a founding member of the UNIGIS network hat their lecturers and peers through digital channels and
has now grown to over 20 universities on 6 continents. UNIGIS MSc build self-organised learning groups. Graduates join more
(2 years ) than 5,000 alumni, who already today excel as leaders
Our students benefit from our Department’s international for those, who want to get a sound foundation and experts in institutions and companies worldwide.
in Geoinformatics and
orientation and renown experience as competence centre
aim at a degree to advance their career.
in Geoinformatics. Two programs are offered in German
Details: > www.unigis.at/en/unigis-msc
and English language: UNIGIS professional and UNIGIS
MSc.

INTERFACULT Y DEPARTMENT OF GEOINFORMATICS – Z_GIS, UNIVERSIT Y OF SALZBURG

UNIGIS MSc

Studying at the University of Salzburg

T
he UNGIS programs are offered by the Depart-
ment of Geoinformatics - Z_GIS, University of • Application of current GIS software
Salzburg. Z_GIS is an interdisciplinary Centre of
• Flexible time management within the given modular structure
Competence for Geoinformatics. Our research is cen-
tred along seven research areas, where methodological • Self-paced learning to meet your indivudal needs and interests
excellency in the conceptualisation of spatial thinking
• Dedicated online learning materials on the Moodle eLearning platform with a mix of multiple learning media,
is integrated with domain knowledge in addressing to-
including scripts, worked examples, hands-on exercises, tutorials or videos
day’s complex problems.
• Maximum compatibility with your job, as there are no obligatory residential phases
Besides its excellency in research, Z_GIS is recognised
• Intensive tutoring and supervision by the UNIGIS team
as a hub for graduate education in Geoinformatics with
a distinct international orientation. As an Interfaculty • Frequent interaction with lecturers in discussion fora
Department, Z_GIS develops geospatial competences
• Possibilities to self-organise and exchange experiences with peers
across disciplines, offering graduate study programs in
residential as well as distance learning modes. A global • Highly competent lecturers from research and industry
network of partners from academia and industry serves • Embedded in the Club UNIGIS, the wider community of UNIGIS students and alumni
as a strong platform for joint research and exchange of
students and faculty.

Studying UNIGIS Salzburg over distance offers:

4
 EDUCATING GIS PROFESSIONALS WORLDWIDE

2
1
4
The UNIGIS MSc study program 3 7
Master
Thesis

6 Electives

U 5 9
NIGIS MSc is an application-oriented study pro- UNIGIS MSc is structured into nine core modules, the
gram in Geographic Information Systems. It is Electives, an Academic Working block and the Thesis. Each
designed for persons who already have some ex-
perience with GIS software and/or those who have some
module is worth six European credit points (ECTS), where
one ECTS equals 25 hours student workload on average.
8 Work

background in a spatial discipline. It offers a sound meth- Depending on a student's prior knowledge, individual time
odological and application-oriented background in Geoin- affordances may be signifcantly lower for particular sub-
formatics. jects. Averaged over the program, UNIGIS students report
a weekly workload of app. 12-15 hours. Students communicate with the UNIGIS lecturers and the
In the core modules, students will get skilled in the UNIGIS team via the Moodle eLearning platform, email,
acquisition, modelling, analysis and visualisation of The sequence of core modules is predefined, where each discussion fora and online conferencing software. As
geospatial data as well as process-automation of GI- module has a duration of two months: UNIGIS is a program that can be studied fully online, these
workflows. Learning materials are based on conceptual communication channels form an important part of the
methodological foundations that will outlast dynamic Module 1: Introduction to Geoinformatics learning environment. Although distant, UNIGIS students
technological product cycles. However, this program is Module 2: Data modelling and data structures are never alone!
clearly focussed on the application-side of Geoinformatics. Module 3: Data sources and data acquisition
Examples and exercises are at the centre of the learning Module 4: Geodatenbase management At the program start, participants get all necessary mate-
experience. Multiple GIS software packages and related Module 5: Geographical analysis rials and software licences that are needed for the module
geospatial technology and tools will be used. Module 6: Visualisation and cartography work. Also right at the beginning, in the online introduc-
Module 7: Open GIS and distributed GI Infrastructures tory workshop students meet each other and also get to
Graduates from the UNIGIS MSc program will be awarded Module 8: Spatial Statistics know the UNIGIS Team. All the information on the stu-
with the Master of Science (GIS) Degree from the Uni- Module 9: Project Management and GIS Organisations dy organisation is collected in the virtual UNIGIS Campus
versity of Salzburg. that can be revisted throughout the studies.

INTERFACULT Y DEPARTMENT OF GEOINFORMATICS – Z_GIS, UNIVERSIT Y OF SALZBURG

UNIGIS MSc

Admission requirements

The requirements for the admission to the Language Alumni work for example in the following com-
UNIGIS MSc program are: panies or institutions:
English will be used throughout the program in the materi-
1. A Bachelor Degree in a related discipline, i.e. either a als and the communication channels. Besides the English- Central Asian Institute for Applied Geosciences, Kyr-
"spatial" or an IT-related discipline. language programs, the University of Salzburg also offers gyzstan – Datamatics Swaziland – Dynafrica IT So-
Equivalent qualifications may be accepted. The UNIGIS programs in German and in Spanish language. If lutions – Earth Observation Singapore – Electricity
minimum requirement in this case is a general interested, ask the UNIGIS office for more information! Authority, Nepal – Eskom, South Africa – German
entrance qualification for university, several years of Corporation for International Cooperation, Tajikis-
work experience in the field of Geoinformatics and Open for students from many disciplines, e.g.: tan – Haramaya University, Ethiopia – HERE Tech-
outstanding academic and professional performance. nologies – International Committee for Red Cross
The equivalency will be evaluated in an application Agronomy – Environmental management – Ar- – Kazakh national University – KATTAN engineering
interview. chitecture – Archeology – Geology – Economics – consultancy, Saudi Arabia – King Abdulaziz Univer-
Forestry – Geography – Geophysics – Informatics sity – Ministery for Agriculture and Rural Develop-
2. English language proficiency: language level C1 and – Cartography – Hydrology – Meteorology – Natural ment, South Africa – Ministery Dept. of Town and
higher according to the Common European Framework Hazard Mitigation - Criminology – Ecology – Emer- Country Planning, Botswana – Mullankara Canal, In-
(CEF), or equivalent qualifications. gency Response Management – Spatial and Lands- dia – Omer Al Mukhtar University – Raj Devi Consul-
cape Planning – Regional Sciences – Biology – Ge- tancy, Nepal – Statistics Agency, Namibia – United
The Program Director decides on the admission to the stu- odesy and Surveying – Zoology – Geomatics – Civil Nations, Nairobi – WHO Regional Office for Africa –
dy program considering available study places, the appli- Engineering – Business Administration – Sociology Windhoek Municipality, South Africa – WWF, Bhutan
cation documents and the orientation interview.

6
 EDUCATING GIS PROFESSIONALS WORLDWIDE

Study performance: assignments and exams

In the UNIGIS curriculum, a student's performance is as- At the end of each module, the students upload their so- Throughout the study, there are no written exams. Thus
sessed based on a set of assignments. An assignment is lution documents to the eLearning platform. From here it is not necessary to travel to Salzburg. Like any exam,
a homework with personalised tasks that a student needs they are passed on to the lecturer, who grades students assignments adhere to the terms and regulations for Uni-
to work on. After the completion of a module, a solution within 3 weeks after the deadline. Grades range between versity examination standards. Thus, a student has the
document is compiled and delivered. Excellent (grade 1) and Failed (grade 5) according the right to repeat the exam by means of a second set of as-
Austrian grading schema. In addition to the grade a stu- signments. After positive assessment of all study items,
Typical types of assignments are applied tasks dent gets detailed verbal feedback. The overall perfor- including the Master Thesis, the University of Salzburg
that a student needs to work on: mance assessment in the final certificate averages the will issue the Master Degree.
module grades.
• Geoprocessing of spatial data with GIS- The quality of UNIGIS learning materials and their di-
Software. Besides the results, the steps of the Besides the assignments, a module always also offers dactic presentation is subject to continuous monitoring.
workflow need to be documented. exercises that help to prepare for the assignments, or UNIGIS quality management operates at multiple levels.
offer the possibility to delve deeper into the one or other After each module, students are asked to fill in an evalua-
• Delivery of specific geospatial products, like
aspect. Exercises can be openly discussed with peer stu- tion form for anonymous feedback. We highly appreciate
maps, analysis reports, graphs, etc.
dents and the lecturer. These activities are optional and the high response rate that greatly helps in the conti-
• Reading assignments and essay-based
they are not part of the performance assessment. nuous update of learning materials in the highly dynamic
discussions on a topic.
field of Geoinformatics.

INTERFACULT Y DEPARTMENT OF GEOINFORMATICS – Z_GIS, UNIVERSIT Y OF SALZBURG

UNIGIS MSc

Study support – distant, but always connected

To pursue an acacemic study program via distance lear- • The UNIGIS office is responsible for administrative
ning asks the support from many sides. This importantly workflows like tuition fees, enrolment, issuing of
includes the support of friends and family. Also the value certificates and degrees.
in an exchange with peer students or in small learning
groups cannot be underestimated. • The „ClubUNIGIS“ is the community of UNIGIS
students and alumni. Thus, you will continue to be a
From the UNIGIS team you can expect the part of it also after graduation. This is, how stu- None of your questions
following support: dents get connected with alumni from the very first shall remain un-answered.
module. Make use of the extensive experience of the
• Lecturers offer help in content-related questions ClubUNIGIS network! Don't be shy to ask,
in the context of the study materials, exercises and there are no "stupid" questions!
assignments. In UNIGIS, communication takes place in discussion fora,
emails, and online meetings. Right from the first module, Your study progress
• A supervisor will advise on your thesis research. there will be an intensive relation between students, with matters to us.
the lecturer and the UNIGIS team. In our experience, ac-
• Your UNIGIS tutor is your primary contact person. tive communication is one of the main success factors. It
The tutor monitors your state, gives advice and not only supports where help is needed, but also refuels
guides you smoothly through your study. Approach personal motivation. The more actively you participate in
the tutor for any study-related issue you may en- the communication, the more you will benefit yourself -
counter. and with your the entire student cohort of your intake.

8
 EDUCATING GIS PROFESSIONALS WORLDWIDE

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gudrun Wallentin

gudrun.wallentin@sbg.ac.at
UNIGIS Program Director
Director of Studies

Your UNIGIS Team

Regina Hatheier Stampfl, MSc

regina.hatheier-stampfl@sbg.ac.at Anna Karnassioti
Head of UNIGIS Office anna.karnassioti@sbg.ac.at
Tutor

Danijela Ristic Dr. Christian Neuwirth

danijela.ristic@sbg.ac.at christian.neuwirth@sbg.ac.at
UNIGIS Office Thesis Supervisor

Mag. Julia Moser

julia.moser@sbg.ac.at
Coordinator ClubUNIGIS
The UNIGIS Team
is looking forward to

Dr. Martin Loidl guiding you through your studies

martin.loidl@sbg.ac.at and to provide advice and support whenever needed!
Coordinator of optionale modules

INTERFACULT Y DEPARTMENT OF GEOINFORMATICS – Z_GIS, UNIVERSIT Y OF SALZBURG

UNIGIS MSc

Define your individual learning pathway

The UNIGIS MSc program is structured into 9 core mo- The techniques and standards of academic work are The Master Thesis marks the last quarter of the pro-
dules, the Electives, guidance on Academic Work, and fi- introduced in a dedicated module and practiced in three gram. It is the final "Masterpiece", in which students can
nally the Master Thesis. The program starts twice a year, online workshops. This study phase is continued over the show their competency in a subject of their own choice.
on March 1st and October 1st. In total, UNIGIS MSc takes entire duration of the MSc program. It starts with the
two years to finish. However, an extension of an additional introductory workshop at the very beginning and finishes For more detailed information, you can download the cur-
year to up to three years study duration is possible free-of with the final presentation of the thesis. rent UNIGIS MSc curriculum here:
charge.
> www.unigis.at/en/unigis-msc
The schedule of the core modules follows a predefined The schedule of the UNIGIS MSc study program:
sequence. Deviations thereof are possible, but need to be
agreed with the UNIGIS team. Altogether, each module
takes 2 months. Within these two months, time manage-
ment is fully flexible. The repeating structure of modules
will help you with this task. No matter, if you are a late-
night worker or prefer to get up early: you are free to work
according to your own pace.

The Electives cover a total amount of 24 ECTS-credits.

This provides the opportunity, to forge your own speciality
and learning pathway.

10
 2 EDUCATING GIS PROFESSIONALS WORLDWIDE

1
4 Master
3 7 Thesis

6 Electives

5 9 Academic

8 Work

CORE MODULE 1: CORE MODULE 2:

Introduction to Geoinformatics Data Modelling and data structures

This introductory module has a special position as a first study component of the cur- This module provides a profound overview of common data structures and models of
riculum. It provides orientation and sets the frame for working with the subsequent geographic information systems. It explores how the real world around us can be map-
modules. Specifically, it supports the development of a personal style working with the ped in all its complexity clearly with comprehensible data models and structures. Speci-
distance-learning materials. In addition to these objectives regarding the study format, fic module contents include:
the following domain-related content is offered:

• Modelling spatial information.

• Terminology and functional characteristics of geographical information
• Spatial models – data models – data structures.
systems.
• Vector model.
• Typical applications of geographical information processing.
• Raster models (grid).
• Current trends in Geoinformatics.
• Representation of surfaces.
• Overview of secondary information resources for GIS in the sense of life-
• Multidimensional spatial data models.
long learning.
• Object-oriented data models.
• Practical training to use professional GIS software.
• Data modelling with UML.
• Competent use of coordinate systems and projections in the practical work
of GIS. • Introduction to mark-up languages (XML, GML).

11

INTERFACULT Y DEPARTMENT OF GEOINFORMATICS – Z_GIS, UNIVERSIT Y OF SALZBURG

UNIGIS MSc
2
1
4 Master
3 7 Thesis

6 Electives

5 9 Academic

8 Work

CORE MODULE 3: CORE MODULE 4:

Data Sources and Acquisition Geodatenbase Management

The third module is dedicated to the process of collecting real-world information. It In this module, the theoretical foundations of conventional geodatabase management
gives an overview of the diversity of primary and secondary acquisition methods. It systems are introduced. Building on the lesson on data models, students will use Enti-
thereby creates insight in the genesis and the related suitability-for-use of spatial data ty-Relationship modelling and its formal notation to structure their data. With help of
for specific use cases. It makes aware about digital resources, and introduces stand- the Structured Query Language, students build and query their own databases. Finally,
ards-compliant documentation. It will also focus on the management of GI projects. data management of database with GeoDBMS tools in general and spatial databases
Specific module contents include: specifically is discussed. Specific module content includes:

• Identifying adequate data sources for specifc applications and user • Architecture of database management systems.
needs. • Relational data modelling, ER, ER notation.
• National and global spatial data sources, OGD, SDI, INSPIRE. • Normalisation.
• Primary collection methods: surveying, photogrammetry, laser scanning, • Solid basics of the SQL query language as a universal language for data
GPS, remote sensing. definition, data control and data management.
• Secondary acquisition methods: scanning, digitising, vectorising. • Glossary of terms relating to geographic data base systems.
• Raster to vector conversion, indirect position data, geocoding. • Spatial models in DBMS.
• Data transfer, norms and standards, format transformations. • Spatial indexing.
• Metadata, metadata standards.
• Data quality and cost.
• Legal aspects, copyright and copyleft, open licenses.

12
 2 EDUCATING GIS PROFESSIONALS WORLDWIDE

1
4 Master
3 7 Thesis

6 Electives

5 9 Academic

8 Work

CORE MODULE 5: CORE MODULE

CORE MODULE 6:
6:
Geographical Analysis Applikationsentwicklung
Visualisation and Cartography

Spatial analysis methods are a central feature of all geographic information systems. Knowledge on the visual communication of spatial issues is essential, because virtually
This core area of Geoinformatics aims at a transfer of domain issues towards an ade- every GI professional actively design maps. This module aims at professionals from
quate use of analytical methods and tools of the Geoinformatics, by adequate problem different domains to take advantage of cartographic data processing for their respective
structuring and conceptualisation. This module introduces the fundamental methods tasks. Specific module contents related to conventional as well as digital publication
and techniques of geographical analysis. Specific module contents include: forms (Web mapping, mobile mapping) include:

• Cartographic application fields and paradigms.

• Horizontal techniques (neighbourhood analysis, distance functions, filter,
interpolation, diffusion). • Cartographic design process, generalisation and classification.
• Perception of forms and visual variables, Colour models and colour use,
• Vertical multi-thematic integration (intersection, assessment, multi-criteria
consideration of colour vision deficiency.
method).
• Development of map annotation, map symbols and interaction.
• Grid analysis and map Algebra: local, focal and zonal operators.
• Thematic maps, diagrams and diagram maps.
• Cost surfaces.
• Map design and layout.
• Terrain analysis (slope, exposure, exposure, visibility). • Reproduction and digital devices and output formats.
• Multivariate classification and regionalisation. • 2.5D/3D visualisation.
• Understanding of the formation of dynamic models and simulation. • Web mapping technologies and APIs.
• Route optimisation and allocation in networks. • Dynamic visualisation.

13

INTERFACULT Y DEPARTMENT OF GEOINFORMATICS – Z_GIS, UNIVERSIT Y OF SALZBURG

UNIGIS MSc
2
1
4 Master
3 7 Thesis

6 Electives

5 9 Academic

8 Work

CORE MODULE 7: CORE MODULE 8:

OpenGIS and distrib. GI Infrastructures Spatial Statistics

Spatial Data Infrastructures (SDI) consists of technology, standards, guidelines and This module reviews and reinforces fundamental concepts and techniques of spatial
legal aspects, and human resources. This module introduces the key standards spec- statistics. On this basis, the principle of spatial autocorrelation as a basis for under-
ified by the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) and shows the role of these stand- standing the specifics of spatial statistics will be presented and the main methods of
ards for achieving interoperability in the context of Spatial Data Infrastructures. spatial statistics discussed. Specific module content includes:
Specific module content includes:

• Specific interoperability issues. • Comparison between non-spatial and spatial statistics.

• Overview of standards, OpenGIS and distributed architectures. • Specifications and terms of spatial statistics, in particular Spatial
• Concepts, models and interfaces related to OpenGIS (e.g.: XML, autocorrelation and spatial variability.
geography markup language (GML), Web Map Service (WMS), Web • Point pattern analysis.
Feature Service (WFS), metadata and catalogue services). • Geographically weighted regression.
• Design of strategic geographical information projects – Spatial Data • Exploratory spatial data analysis.
Infrastructures.
• Deterministic interpolation.
• Metadata and data catalogues.
• Probabilistic interpolation (kriging, spatial statistics).
• Validation of interpolation results.

14
 2 EDUCATING GIS PROFESSIONALS WORLDWIDE

1
4 Master
3 7 Thesis

6 Electives

5 9 Academic

8 Work

CORE MODULE 9: ACADEMIC WORK I:

Project Management Online Meetings and Workshops

The success of geographic information systems in practice is connected to projects with This study phase guides students through their studies and gradually introduces into the
the aim to introduce, extend, or apply GI solutions in an institution. A profound know- scientific approach. While the workshops in the introductory phase have a stronger focus
ledge in the area of project management and organisation thus is an increasingly im- on giving general guidance and advice, the roles are increasingly switched. Students
portant competence of GI experts. This module describes the principles and methods of take the lead and develop their own areas of research, while supervisors revise and re-
modern project management. Specific module contents include: fine. In the final online meeting, students wrap up their theses' outcomes.

• Introductory online workshop.

• Project definition and organisation.
• Mid-study online workshop.
• Project planning (objectives, schedules, project phases, organisational
• Master Thesis online workshop.
structures).
• Final presentation of the Master Thesis.
• Project framework (logical framework approach).
• Project controlling.
• Quality and innovation management.
• GIS in organisations (planning, procurement, operation) with conventional
and spatial SQL front end.

15

INTERFACULT Y DEPARTMENT OF GEOINFORMATICS – Z_GIS, UNIVERSIT Y OF SALZBURG

UNIGIS MSc
2
1
4 Master
3 7 Thesis

6 Electives

5 9 Academic

8 Work

Electives „Applied Geoinformatics“

Elective Subjects advance and/or complement skills and knowledge acquired on UNIGIS The following subjects are currently avaliable as optional modules:
core modules for specialised topics. In the Electives, a total of 24 ECTS are to be selected.
• Automated GIS Workflows with QGIS and Python
There are various ways to cover the Electives. Most importantly, UNIGIS offers a variety • Enterprise GIS
of optional modules that cover a broad range of conceptual and application-oriented to- • Environmental Monitoring
pics in Geoinformatics. However, students can get credits for a range of other courses and • EuroGIS – The European Dimension of GIS
achievments, including documented project work, successful participation in a Summer • Remote Sensing
School, scientific publications, select online training courses or MOOCs. • Spatial Simulation
• Application Development Basics
A coherent subset of at least 12 ECTS within the Elective Subjects can be bundled to- • Application Development using Javascript
gether as individual specialisation. The specialisation will be indicated in the Final Certifi- • LiDAR Remote Sensing and Applications
cate and thus supports individual profiles.
For detailed information on module contents, see:
Before signing up to optional courses, we recommend to discuss individual preferences
with the tutor to get the most out of the Electives for yourself. > www.unigis.at/en/optional-modules

16
 2 EDUCATING GIS PROFESSIONALS WORLDWIDE

1
4 Master
3 7 Thesis

6 Electives

5 9 Academic

8 Work

ACADEMIC WORK II: ACADEMIC WORK III:

Academic Work Module Master Thesis

This module markes the starting point for the work on the thesis. It guides students In the Master Thesis, a student shows the ability to do independent research in a se-
through the challenging process from a general area of interest to a sharp research lected topic in the field of “Geographical Information Science & Systems”. As such it is
question. After successful completion of the modules, students are capable of formu- a “business card” for career development. Students are required to meet the principles
lating a sound research proposal. Specific module contents include: of scientific work in terms of formal presentation, methodological approach and its
content according to current scientific standards.

The definition of a thesis topic – thesis proposal – typically takes place in the middle
• Positioning the scientific method in the wider context of the Philosophy of of the study program. The online master thesis workshop focuses on the in-depth dis-
Science cussion of the thesis topic with the UNIGIS Team. Additional thesis supervision through
• Effectively reading scientific literature an external expert in the respective field is recommended.

• Writing scientific texts with an appropriate style and structure

Master Theses that have been successfully submitted to graduate from the UNIGIS
• Presenting scientific work in graphical, written and verbal form
MSc program can be found online:
• Referencing scientific literature appriately and formally correct
• Requirements of writing a UNIGIS Master Thesis at the University of
Salzburg. > www.unigis.at/en/master-thesis/

17

INTERFACULT Y DEPARTMENT OF GEOINFORMATICS – Z_GIS, UNIVERSIT Y OF SALZBURG

UNIGIS MSc

Tuition fees

The tuition fee amounts to 9,800 EUR. It covers the costs of installments of 5,200 €. Once the program has started, no
your study and includes registration, tuition, supervision, reimbursements are possible. Further costs may arise for
examination and graduation. Moreover, it covers your
obligatory membership in the Austrian Student Union. The (GIS-)Software that is used in the core modules is • optional travels to Salzburg, e.g. to the
Payment is due after acceptance. The full amount has provided free of charge during the entire duration of your ClubUNIGIS meeting at the annual conference.
to be transferred to the University two weeks before the studies, limited to study purposes. Any (GIS-)Software • any optional summer schools or training
program starts to this bank account: that is used in optional modules is free, at least for the courses with your Electives.
duration of the module.
• costs for the broadband internet access and
Bank: BACA (Bank Austria UniCredit Group)
data download.
Receiver: Universität Salzburg, Z_GIS Study extension
• the hardware for your personal workplace.
Receiver Address: Rainerstrasse 2, 5020 Salzburg
• Printing and mailing your Master Thesis.
Bank code: 11000 An extension until up to 3 years study duration is free of
Account number: 06953834600 charge. In case a student exceeds the maximum program
IBAN: AT5311 0000 6953 8346 00 duration, no further university services can be consumed,
BIC: BKAUATWW including tuition, supervision or examination. However,
Reason for transfer (important!): students can apply for a further extension phase, for
„LG_242800_first name_second_name“. which extension fees will apply.

Any bank transfer charges must be covered by the sen-

der. It is possible to split the payment into two annual

18
 EDUCATING GIS PROFESSIONALS WORLDWIDE

Learning materials

Learning materials are developed by domain experts, are perience with the main GIS software packages in Geoin-
continuously updated and carefully designed. The scripts, formatics and Remote Sensing (mainly student licences),
exercises and tutorials support students in acquiring for example:
the conceptual background and methodological skills to • ArcGIS Pro (ESRI)
solve complex task in spatial data handling and analysis. • ERDAS Imagine (Hexagon)
Scripts are provided in BookDown Format as interactive
• FME (Safe Software)
web-books. For offline use, the scripts can also be down-
• Quantum GIS (open source)
loaded as printable pdf or an eBook format.
• PostGIS/PostgreSQL (open source)

The UNIGIS eLearning platform on Moodle provides a sin-

gle access point to all learning materials, assignments, Beyond that, students have the possibility to explore
software, discussion fora and the organisational guide- further software products. Test licences can be provided
lines. This way, materials can be easily updated and stu- for e.g. Geomedia (Hexagon), Smallworld (GE Network
dents are always provided with the latest version. Solutions) or AutoDesk Map 3D (Autodesk). Moreover,
materials in optional modules cover several open source
Thanks to our software partners, students can gain ex- applications, e.g. R or GAMA.

19

INTERFACULT Y DEPARTMENT OF GEOINFORMATICS – Z_GIS, UNIVERSIT Y OF SALZBURG

UNIGIS MSc

What is needed for your workplace

In order to study Geoinformatics from home, you need If you plan to buy a (new) computer, we are happy to advise! can offer Windows operating systems that can be used
your own workplace, most importantly a reasonably new also beyond the study duration for non-commercial pur-
computer on which you have installation rights. No specific software needed poses.
GIS-Software: GIS software is provided. Thanks to our
Hardware cooperation with ESRI, we can offer a full licence for Arc- Text processing software: While we recommend MS-
Here are the specifications for a computer that is adequate GIS Pro / ArcMap including all extensions for the duration Word for Windows, you can use any alternative software
as UNIGIS workplace. The required hardware specs are of your studies. (e.g. OpenOffice) that offers the possibility to generate a
mainly imposed by the GIS software. pdf.
Operating System:
Minimum requirements / recommended Browser: Any common internet browser like Mozilla
The following Operating Systems are supported: Firefox, Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge in a recent ver-
• Hyperthreaded double core CPU (4 cores)
sion. Often it is recommendable to have two or three al-
• 4 GB RAM (8 GB)
• Windows 8.1 Pro and Enterprise (64 Bit) ternatives installed.
• 32 GB free disk space (32 GB on SSD)
• Windows 10 Home, Pro and Enterprise (64 Bit)
• Graphics card: DirectX 11, OpenGL 4.3 (Open GL 4.5) Communication: Student email accounts will be deleted
• CPU-speed: 3 GHz after graduation, so we recommend using your own email
• Monitor: min. 19“ There is no specific support for Mac or Linux. However, account. The main communication platform is the eLear-
• Broadband Internet-Access students have successfully used Mac computers for their ning platform "Moodle".
• Printer UNIGIS studies. Through our partnership in the Microsoft
• Mic and Speakers / Headset and Webcam
Developer Network Academic Alliance (Dreamspark), we

20
 EDUCATING GIS PROFESSIONALS WORLDWIDE

What else can UNIGIS offer?

For all UNIGIS students

GI-Software Alumni have the life-long right to sign up for an optional

In case you have an interest in a specific GIS-related
software that is not covered in the modules, it is wor-
module.
Contact
thwhile to enquire in the UNIGIS office. Due to our acti- The ClubUNIGIS is a network of approximately 2000 stu- Let's get into contact!
vities in research and teaching, we may well have a test dents and alumni, who are or have been enrolled to one of
licence available. the UNIGIS Salzburg programs. ClubUNIGIS members are
connected through several channels like LinkedIN, and the Paris Lodron Universität Salzburg
Software training newsletter. Be an active part of the community: in today's Interfaculty Department of Geoinformatics - Z_GIS
UNIGIS students can access the majority of courses that networked society it is a key asset to be well linked to the UNIGIS
are offered by the ESRI Training Plattform free of charge professional community! Moreover, ClubUNIGIS Netzwerk Schillerstraße 30, Bauteil 12, 2.Stock
(> training.esri.com). offers a number of discounts and services, e.g. the exclu- A-5020 Salzburg
isve right to sign up for optional modules at cost price, a AUSTRIA
University libarary special rate at the annual GI_Forum conference in Salz-
The university offers (almost) all of its journals and some burg, and access to the u_Lecture webinar series. www.unigis.at/en
text books in electronic format. As student of the Univer- E-Mail: unigis.office@sbg.ac.at
sity of Salzburg you have full access to these resources. Find out more about the benefits of ClubUNIGIS on the Tel.: 0043 / (0)662 / 8044 - 7522
website:
ClubUNIGIS
UNIGIS students have the exclusive possibility to conti- > www.unigis.at/en/clubUNIGIS
nue their life-long learning pathway also after graduation.

For any open question, please do not hesitate to get into touch per email or phone.

21

INTERFACULT Y DEPARTMENT OF GEOINFORMATICS – Z_GIS, UNIVERSIT Y OF SALZBURG

UNIGIS MSc

Rashid Mohamedzain

Thabsile Rambau When I decided to go back and continue my

academic studies I extensively looked for the
Since enrolled with UNIGIS MSc pro- right program in GIS. The UNIGIS MSc study pro-
Shubhra Sharma gram, I have gained intense knowledge gramme proved to be the right choice. It combines
and skills in the field of GISc. The program academic knowledge and professional skills and
I completed my Master Degree (Gold has helped me to understand my work I can immediately transfer and apply my newly
Medal awardee) in Geography and now pur- better and my work performance has impro- acquired knowledge into my work environment.
suing my Doctoral studies. I am exploring the ved significantly. The professionalism of
I enjoyed meeting the UNIGIS team during a
impact of paleoclimate on the formation of some UNIGIS employees and the way the
summer school in Salzburg. The staff is
course is structured makes it possible
Patric Loydell specific landforms in the Western Himalayas. My
for me to manage my day to very helpful and tries very hard to
professor advised me to apply GIS & RS techni-
day work and still keep my meet your expectations.
I have recently completed my Professional ques but I had only basic knowledge about it. I
came to know about UNIGIS MSc at Madras studies on track.
Diploma from UNIGIS Salzburg, and I now want to
enrol in the UNIGIS MSc program. Whilst doing my University. It provided me a unique oppor-
Professional Diploma, it has allowed for me to expand tunity to acquire internationally standar-
my working knowledge of GIS as well as teaching me dised qualification along with my
many new disciplines within the field of GIS. doctoral research.
The manner in which the course is structured allowed for
me to continue with my full time job whilst being able

UNIGIS Salzburg
to keep my studies on track. When I encountered
any issues in my studies, they were tended to by
the UNIGIS Salzburg team in a very quick and
professional manner.
I would recommend UNIGIS to any-
body who is interested in the
field of GIS.
EDUCATING GIS PROFESSIONALS WORLDWIDE

> www.unigis.at/en

22