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Charles Darwin University (CDU)

  • 20% international / 80% domestic

Master of Applied Spatial Science

  • Masters (Coursework)

The Master of Applied Spatial Science will give you the skills to apply spatial science technologies and analysis techniques to solve real-world problems across a diverse range of fields and vocations.

Key details

Degree Type
Masters (Coursework)
Duration
2 years full-time, 4 years part-time
Course Code
SSPSC1
Study Mode
Online, In person

About this course

The Master of Applied Spatial Science will give you the skills to apply spatial science technologies and analysis techniques to solve real-world problems across a diverse range of fields and vocations. This in-depth program is delivered both online and on-campus from Darwin, which is Australia's gateway to Indonesia and Southeast Asia. The course carries a strong focus upon the application of open-source spatial science technologies, developing professional contacts through work placement, and field skills including operating research-grade global positioning system units, spectroradiometers, terrestrial LiDAR system, and UAVs. You will apply the latest spatial science tools and techniques to data relevant to multiple sectors including, Environmental Science, Precision Agriculture, Disaster and Emergency Management, and Health.

Through this course you will gain important transferable employability skills, including collaboration, preparing a resume and addressing selection criteria, clear scientific writing, report writing, and preparing and delivering oral presentations.

The Graduate Certificate of Spatial Science is nested within the Masters degree course as an entry and exit pathway to this program




Entry requirements

Successful completion of a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent international qualification.

Study locations

Casuarina

Casuarina

Online

What you will learn

This program (160 credit points) contains 70cp of core studies in geospatial science (a statistical unit, five spatial science units, and a research skills unit), 40cp of the research project, and 50cp of specialist electives. The special electives include 20cp of research methodology electives and 40cp of electives selected from disciplines such as Environmental Science, Health, Disaster & Emergency Management, Information Technology, Engineering, Project Management, or Indigenous Knowledge.

Career pathways

Geospatial Science graduates are in high demand in Australia and internationally to work in governments, industry and research taking on a wide range of roles including:

  • Remote Sensing Specialist
  • GIS Analyst/Technician
  • Earth Observation Analyst/Scientist
  • Geospatial Intelligence Analyst
  • GIS Manager
  • Geospatial Data Scientist
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Precision Farming Technician

"Australia is grappling with a significant shortage of geospatial professionals" (Geospatial Council of Australia, 2025) as the demand for geospatial experts across Australian states and territories is growing exponentially. The average salary for a graduate geospatial analyst in Australia is $86,500 per annum (Glassdoor Australia, 2025), and the graduate requires no certification from a professional body to practice.

This course provides a pathway for professionals from any background to up-skill or re-skill to take the career opportunities associated with geospatial science, such as working with industry, government research institutes, or private consultancy. There are opportunities for graduates to apply and enter into the NTG Graduate Development Program upon completion of the course.