Geographical Information Science and Technology - S6007

Geographical Information Science and Technology

Master's degree

The Master of Geographical Information Science and Technology provides industry-relevant training to allow you to pursue or further your career in global and Australian geospatial industry. You will learn the principles, techniques and applications of geographical information systems and technology in a contextual environment from experts at the cutting edge of this field.

The Master of Geographical Information Science & Technology positions you at the forefront of a rapidly evolving geospatial landscape where core GIS expertise intersects with advanced spatial data science, analytics and decision intelligence.

In Australia alone, Seek consistently lists over 500 roles demanding skills in geospatial analytics, remote sensing, spatial modelling and GIS, with strong demand across environmental agencies, emergency services, utilities and consulting firms.

Career paths range from GIS Analysts and Spatial Modellers to Geospatial Data Scientists, Intelligence Officers and Remote Sensing Specialists, reflecting the growing diversity and seniority of roles across this dynamic field.

These roles increasingly demand strategic thinking, advanced analytics, and cross-disciplinary problem-solving, far beyond traditional software operation.

This internationally recognised qualification prepares you for a truly global career. Hundreds of specialist positions are advertised across North America, Europe, Asia and Africa, spanning NGOs, UN agencies, global consultancies and tech companies.

From climate change modelling to humanitarian crisis mapping, your expertise will be valued worldwide.

Through advanced training in spatial data science methods and geospatial technologies, including GIS technology, remote sensing, GNSS, quality assurance and decision support systems, you’ll gain the technical and analytical capabilities needed to turn complex data into powerful, real-world solutions.

This training is mapped to nationally recognised priority skill areas, as outlined in the Australian Government’s Skilled Occupation List, positioning you for roles in demand both locally and globally.

Graduates step directly into competitive national and international roles, making this one of the most portable and employable qualifications available today.

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At a glance

Course Details

Location
  • On-campus at Clayton: Full time & part time
Duration
  • 1.5 years (full time)/3 years (part time)
  • 2 years (fulltime)/5 years (part time)
Start date
First semester (February): Entry level 1, 2 years. Second semester (July): Entry level 2, 1.5 years
Qualification
Master of Geographical Information Science and Technology
Course Handbook

Entry Requirements

You need to satisfy the following entrance requirements to be considered for entry to this course.

Minimum Entry Requirements (Domestic students)

Qualifications

Entry level 1: 96 points to complete – Duration: 2 years full-time - 4 years part-time

An Australian bachelor degree or equivalent with at least a minor in environmental science, earth science, geographical science, atmospheric science, biological science, civil engineering, social science, geography, urban and regional planning, archaeology or business and commerce and at least 60% (credit) average overall, or qualification and experience or employment in a related industry approved by the faculty.

Entry level 2: 72 points to complete – Duration: 1.5 years full-time - 3 years part-time An Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent) with a major in environmental science, earth science, geographical science, atmospheric science, civil engineering, social science, geography, urban and regional planning, archaeology including at least one unit covering the fundamentals of GIS and technology, with at least 60% (credit) average overall, or equivalent qualification and experience approved by the faculty.

English requirements

Monash Level A, that is:  IELTS (Academic): 6.5 overall (no band lower than 6.0); or Pearson Test of English (Academic): score of 58 overall with no band lower than 50; or TOEFL Internet-based test: score of 79 overall with minimum scores: Writing: 21, Listening: 12, Reading: 13 and Speaking: 18; or Equivalent approved English test

University entrance requirements

Minimum entrance requirements for admission to Monash University Australia.

The course structure and progression map can be viewed in the Handbook.

Making the application

Future students

Semester one (February)

Apply directly to Monash using course code S6007.

Apply

Semester two (July)

Apply directly to Monash using course code S6007.

Apply

Current Monash students

You may apply to transfer from another Monash course. Transfers are a competitive process. You may apply mid-year for available courses however consideration will be given as to whether you will be able to follow your course progression.

Please note that if you apply for a course transfer, you should still enrol in your current course as if you were continuing so as not to jeopardise your enrolment in the Faculty if your transfer application is unsuccessful. More about Course Transfer.

Self assess for credit eligibility

Check for study credit using the "Credit search" link on the Credit for prior study page.

Fees

Fees are subject to change annually.

Full fee

Fees are per 48 credit points which represents a standard full-time course load for a year. The fees for 2026 are:

A$46,400

Fee assistance

As a full fee-paying student, you may be eligible to apply for the optional FEE-HELP to assist you to pay all or part of your tuition fees.

Scholarships

We offer over 360 types of scholarships, valued at up to $280,000. Some scholarships offer one-off payments while others continue for the length of your course. Learn more about Monash Scholarships.

Other costs and fees

For information on other study costs and fees, see other study costs.

Learn from the best

"Our GIS&T Masters allows you to immerse yourself in the world of spatial data management, spatial analysis, modelling and visualisation, discovering the power of GIS tools for tackling real-world challenges. From terrain analysis to ecosystem service valuation, the course unfolds like an adventure, blending theory with hands-on examples that come to life. Unleash your GIS potential and navigate the landscapes of environmental research with confidence."

DR XUAN ZHU

Course Coordinator
(Author of GIS for Environmental Applications: A practical approach)