Geoinformatics - Master of Science

Geoinformatics is a new interdisciplinary field. It is dedicated to the development and application of computer science methods and concepts to solve spatial problems, with a particular focus on the spatial reference of information. It deals with the collection or acquisition, modeling, processing and, above all, the analysis, presentation and dissemination of geodata.

Facts

Standard period of study:
4 semesters
Language of instruction:
German
Admission:
Admission-free
Start of studies:
Winter semester and summer semester
Degree:
Master of Science (M.Sc.)

Drone hovers in the air. A few people are standing around it.
© Simone Reukauf

Geoinformatics is a new interdisciplinary field. It is dedicated to the development and application of computer science methods and concepts to solve spatial problems, with a particular focus on the spatial reference of information. It deals with the collection or acquisition, modeling, processing and, above all, the analysis, presentation and dissemination of geodata.

The main areas of work and research include:

  • Geoinformation systems (GIS) and derived specialist information systems and, more recently, 3D GIS and mobile GIS
  • OpenGIS and interoperability between GIS and standard software
  • Development of geodata infrastructures
  • Multimedia applications in the geosciences, especially geoinformation systems and visualizations of geodata on the Internet
  • Computer-aided cartography and digital cartography
  • Databases and meta databases for spatial dataDatabases and metadatabases for spatial issues
  • Satellite-based navigation and determination of position coordinates (GPS) and the associated digital data acquisition in the field
  • Digital image processing of remote sensing data
  • The integration of geography and system sciences represents a unique opportunity in Germany for GI students to combine subjects with great practical and research relevance.
  • The institute offers a broad and well-founded focus on remote sensing.
  • The Master's program in Osnabrück offers a modern and practice-oriented curriculum as well as intensive student support. The lecturers are also available outside of lectures and official office hours.
  • Students have access to an excellently equipped computer laboratory. Learning content is also taught with the help of e-learning modules.

Major projects are integrated into the course with the aim of providing students with a strong professional qualification.

The four-semester Master's degree course in Geoinformatics includes courses and accompanying individual and team work in addition to the final thesis. The course offers a scientifically oriented specialization in the fields of geoinformatics and remote sensing. In the second semester, one of the two areas is chosen as the main subject. The fourth semester provides for the completion of the Master's thesis.

Completion of the Master's program qualifies students for an academic career on the one hand, and for a wide range of fields of activity in the private or public sector on the other, e.g. in the following segments:

  • Public administration at federal, state or municipal level (e.g. offices for surveying, spatial planning, environment, agricultural structure)
  • Utilities and waste disposal (electricity, water gas, wastewater)
  • Geodata infrastructures and geomarketing
  • Transport and tourism (incl. GPS applications)
  • Location and radio network planning
  • Software and hardware manufacturers
  • Insurance industry
  • Universities and research institutions

Regulations

Every degree has sets of regulations which govern access, admissions, examinations and the structure of the program. More concrete information on the structure of the program is provided here:

A Bachelor's degree of at least six semesters in "Geoinformatics" or a suitable course of study (e.g. Geodesy, Geography, Computer Science, Cognitive Science, Environmental Systems Science) is required for the specialist Master's degree. Proof of English language skills must also be provided. Further information on the access requirements can be found in the  admission regulations.

Applicants in possession of international certification must demonstrate sufficient levels of  German Language Proficiency.

This program is not subject to admission restrictions.

All information pertaining to the application process may be found at  Application, Admission and Enrollment.

German and international applicants with German certification can find all information about the application and the application deadline for the desired semester under  Master's degree programs (single subject).

Please note: different application conditions and deadlines may apply for  Applicants with Non-German Certification!

The examination regulations do not prescribe an obligatory period of study abroad. However, a number of  Options for Studying Abroad are available to you within a range of exchange programs. The  International Office will be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Studying at Osnabrück University means you will be subject to semester fees. Depending on how much of your study credit (standard period of study plus tolerance semester) you have used up, you may also have to pay long-term study fees. Additional information on this topic may be found at  How Much does Studying Cost?

Our  Central Study Counseling Service will be happy to provide you with all the information you need about studying, admission requirements and the structure of your chosen program.

Each department’s  Departmental Study Counselling Service will answer any questions you might have about the content of individual programs.

This degree program has been accredited by the   German Accreditation Council.