Overview 2023
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- CRICOS: 058833B
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University of Tasmania graduates in surveying and spatial sciences are in high demand and find employment in a diverse range of industries and occupations. The degree has a strong technical and work–ready focus thereby providing a wide-range of local, national and international career options for students immediately upon graduation. Many progress to careers in land, engineering and hydrographic surveying, others join teams working in areas such as environmental management, geospatial analysis and land development planning.
The (optional) articulation pathway to a fourth year of study in the Graduate Diploma of Land Surveying also provides advanced knowledge and skills primarily for students wishing to continue on to registration as a Land Surveyor upon graduation.
You’ll also be learning from the very best. The University of Tasmania is home to Australia’s top rated spatial research group* and your lecturers are world leading experts in their fields.
*Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) 2018 National Report
Course objectives
While studying the Bachelor of Surveying and Spatial Sciences you will gain hands-on experience with the full range of traditional land surveying equipment as well as a wealth of modern technologies such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), UAS (unmanned aerial systems), airborne and satellite remote sensing, global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and laser scanning (3D point cloud processing).
Graduates will understand the scientific principles fundamental to surveying and spatial sciences and be able to apply that knowledge using current technology. They will have developed strong analysis, problem-solving and design skills, and be able to communicate with diverse audiences at a professional standard.
Graduates of the three-year Bachelor of Surveying and Spatial Sciences who wish to progress to registration under State and Territory legislation as practising land and cadastral surveyors will also need to complete the 1-year Graduate Diploma of Land Surveying.
Learning Outcomes
Practical experience
Practical experience is an integral part of your University experience in the Bachelor of Surveying and Spatial Sciences, and for those continuing to the Graduate Diploma of Land Surveying there is a one-semester work placement. We have a large range of units that focus on field and practical exercises, turning theory into practice to ensure you graduate with job-ready skills across a range of technologies, platforms, and environments.
Unmatched practical and field experience.
Industry-leading surveying and spatial science equipment and software is utilised in class activities from first year. Beyond the classroom, our huge range of field-based units get you out into the living laboratory of Tasmania, providing genuine environmental learning experiences using state-of-the-art surveying, laser-scanning, remote sensing and GNSS equipment. Practical experiences also extend to using specialised, industry standard software to work with real-world datasets to investigate solutions to environmental/social/agricultural problems.
Learn from the best
Amongst our award-winning staff are Australia’s best spatial scientists, producing world-leading climate change and environmental remote sensing research, and our comparatively small class sizes provide unrestricted access to their experience and connections. As a result, our graduates are sought-after around the world for their breadth and depth of knowledge across the surveying and spatial sciences discipline.
Capstone projects and industry engagement
A capstone project-based unit in the final year provides you with an opportunity to engage closely with our research programs, or to pursue an area of specialisation of your own choice.
Experienced consultant surveyors and practising geospatial professionals contribute to the design and delivery of many of our units.
Students articulating to the Graduate Diploma of Land Surveying interact very closely with experienced practitioners for the theory components of the course, and then consolidate their learning from both the undergraduate program and the Graduate Diploma program during a 20-week period of Professional Practice prior to graduation.
Become a Student Ambassador
Improve your communication, teamwork and leadership skills, meet new people, inspire and help others, and developing lasting friendships and networks as a student ambassador. Our ambassadors proudly represent the University throughout Tasmania in schools, at University and community events, and support a range of recruitment and engagement activities. Though the Student Ambassador Program or STEM Outreach Team you will have many opportunities for training and professional development, experience in real-world community engagement and outreach, networking, and public speaking, plus end up with a key point of distinction on your CV.
Work placement
Students in the Bachelor of Surveying and Spatial Sciences have many exciting opportunities to participate in work placement. The University of Tasmania has consistently maintained a strong relationship with industries that utilise surveying and spatial sciences knowledge and skills, such as agriculture, earth science, and forestry, among others. Through this, many of our students are able to turn practical experience into work experience.
You may also be able to gain practical experience in industry via the Dean's Summer Research Scholarship.
Career outcomes
The University of Tasmania has taught me the academic requirements and also the practical skills to make me ‘job ready’ by the end of my degree.
Skills and knowledge in surveying and spatial sciences is a vital component of projects across an increasingly wide range of industries within both government and private enterprise including cadastral surveying, land planning and development, environmental management, civil engineering, mining and agriculture.
In March 2019, the report ‘Determining the Future Demand, Supply and skills Gap for Surveying and Geospatial Professionals 2018-2028’ forecasts a shortage of surveying and spatial scientists across Australia over the next decade. This high demand is also coupled with a forecast that those job opportunities will come with salaries well above the national average
Every industry on Earth utilises surveying and spatial sciences in some way, and graduates will therefore have the opportunity to pursue their any career that they choose, such as:
Geospatial analyst and GIS specialist
Conduct computer-based mapping and analysis of spatial information, answering ‘what if’ questions at both the small and large scale to assist with efficient and effective decision making. From assessing plausibility of constructing billion-dollar tunnels under cities, or projecting housing expansion over the coming decades, or assessing traffic congestion solutions or evaluating climate change effects on the environment geospatial analysts are involved in many different types of practical, important projects around the world.
Remote Sensing specialist
Provide measurement, mapping and data analysis from drone, aircraft and satellite sensors, mapping areas of the world that can’t otherwise be easily accessed of visualised, both in real-time e.g. during bushfires and floods, and as part of ongoing planning and management e.g. tracking climate change impacts over time, in both urban and remote settings.
Land & Engineering Surveyor
Measure and define land boundaries. Surveyors play an integral role in all aspects of land development, from planning and design of land subdivisions through to the construction of major, infrastructure, roads and buildings. Licensed Land (Cadastral) Surveyors are always in demand as they are the only people legally able to define land boundaries.
Hydrographic Surveyor
Measure and map the seafloor to inform large scale marine oriented projects, like ensuring ports and shipping lanes are accessible to facilitate global trade.
Geodesist
Utilise satellite and terrestrial data to measure and map the Earth, and to monitor regional and global changes like sea level rise, shifting ice sheets, and earthquakes.
Postgraduate study
If you successfully complete this course, you may be also be eligible to apply for a range of other postgraduate courses including Graduate Certificates and Graduate Diplomas and Masters by coursework and research. Filter the course list by Postgraduate to view the current courses available.
Professional Accreditation
The Bachelor of Surveying & Spatial Sciences is an externally accredited degree.
This course is accredited by the Tasmanian Land Surveyors Accreditation Board and the Malaysian Land Surveyors Board.
Graduates will partially meet the requirements for entry as a candidate for registration with the Tasmanian Land Surveyors Accreditation Board and the Malaysian Land Surveyors Board. There are additional requirements for registration beyond the completion of the course.
For further registration requirements, please visit the Tasmanian Land Surveyors Accreditation Board or Malaysian Land Surveyors Board website.
If you have any queries about the accreditation process, please contact us for further information.
Course structure
The Bachelor of Surveying and Spatial Sciences requires the completion of 300 credit points comprising:
- 100 credit point Major
- 100 credit points of Core units
- 100 credit points of Elective units
A major is an area of focus in your degree. All students complete a Geospatial Science major as well as a set of core units.
In your Elective component you can choose from any units marked as "Student Electives" which you meet the pre-requisites for, at any level, from across the university. T
Your electives can be used to add breadth to your degree, by exploring a variety of different subject areas from within or outside the College of Sciences and Engineering. Alternatively, you can deepen your engagement with specific subject areas, for example, by completing additional units in the same discipline as your major or related fields.
You can also use this space to complete an optional second major which may be a (i) *second disciplinary major, (ii) a sustainability major, or (iii) *another major from across the institution, noting some exclusions apply. (*to enrol in a second disciplinary major, or a major outside your discipline, please contact a Student Advisor via Uconnect).
If you are starting in 2023 you can find your course planner here – this helps you plan what units to enrol in and when.
We have a team of Course Information Officers available to help you structure your studies to meet your desired outcomes. For enrolment assistance please contact us via U Connect today.
Major
Geospatial Science
Geospatial scientists provide information that is crucial to decision making and addressing problems of societal significance by harnessing the value of spatial data to map, model and analyse every aspect of our natural and built environments.
The Geospatial Science major provides students with essential skills and knowledge in spatial data collection and analyses. In this major, students will receive hands-on and real-world experiences with spatial data captured by drones, Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and earth observing satellites as well as becoming adept in the high level processing and analysis of spatial data.
Students who complete the geospatial science major will be highly employable in both the government and private sector across a wide range of areas e.g. managing land & marine environments, working toward modern and sustainable urban developments, modernising the agricultural sector, working in mining and forestry and understanding the impacts of climate change on our world.
For more information about Geospatial science at the University of Tasmania, including profiles of our key lecturers and an overview of our world-leading research, please go to: https://www.utas.edu.au/technology-environments-design/geography-and-spatial-sciences/surveying-and-spatial-sciences
Major Co-ordinator: Rachael Hurd
Year 1
This unit is designed to give students a general overview of spatial information and its applications. Spatial information is becoming an increasingly prevalent part of our daily lives. The ability to incorporate spatial information into various applications is a valuable…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Online | Semester 1 | ||||
View all details for KGG102 Introduction to Spatial Information
Satellite images and aerial photographs are used to observe the earth and its atmosphere. These images are used for mapping and monitoring our natural and human environment. Remote sensing is an exciting field that is constantly changing with regular launches…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
Year 2
Handbook Entry - Unit DescriptionThis unit builds on KGG102 GIS: Introduction and will give you more advanced skills in the analysis and presentation of spatial data. As more businesses and scientists adopt geographical information systems (GIS), there is increasing demand…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
This unit builds on the theory and skills of KGG103 Remote Sensing: Introduction and focuses on advanced aspects of remotely sensed image analysis. These additional remote sensing analysis skills are highly valued by employers in the spatial industry. The unit…
Credit Points: 12.5
This unit is currently unavailable.
Year 3
Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) enable autonomous global positioning using signals broadcast from various satellite constellations. With an ability to achieve accuracies ranging from metres to millimetres, GNSS provides positioning capability that underpins a host of scientific, commercial, civilian, and…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
View all details for KGG306 Global Navigation Satellite Systems
Aerial photography has recently become a technology that is widely available. The advent of drones and modern photogrammetric software has revolutionised the way in which we can collect information about the earth’s surface. Photogrammetry is the science of measurement from…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
View all details for KGG330 Remote Sensing: Drone Photogrammetry
The geospatial project unit allows students to undertake a significant investigative project within the discipline of Surveying and Spatial Sciences. The unit gives students an insight into project management skills including; project design, methods development, data collection, data management and…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
This unit builds on KGG212 GIS: Spatial Analysis and focuses on advanced aspects of spatial data analysis, including practical aspects of programming for GIS customisation. At the start of semester you will spend one day in the field collecting GNSS…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
Core
Year 1
The applicability of calculus and linear algebra is so broad that fluency in it is essential for a successful career in a variety of areas including science and engineering. This unit is devoted to the conceptual and logical development of…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 1 | ||||
| Online | Semester 1 | ||||
This unit is a continuation of KMA152, with emphasis on the application of single-variable calculus and linear algebra to problems in mathematics, the physical and biological sciences, economics, and engineering. The units KMA152 and KMA154 also provide an excellent introduction…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 2 | ||||
| Online | Semester 2 | ||||
Year 2
KGG220 continues from KGG255, developing a broader knowledge relating to the use and application of precise instrumentation and measurement methodologies in the fields of spatial information sciences and surveying.This unit develops students' skills in using optical levels and electronic total…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
This unit will introduce students to field methodologies and equipment, calculations and analysis techniques used in surveying. This includes an overview of instrumentation and applications; elementary data collection; measurement of length, direction, azimuth, angles, etc.; theory and use of the…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
Year 3
This unit introduces legal, administrative, social and scientific aspects of environmental impact assessment (EIA) using case studies. The unit emphasises the practical aspects of environmental impact assessment in Tasmanian contexts, but EIA processes and legislation are similar in many parts…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
| Online | Semester 2 | ||||
Geodesy is the study of the Earth's dynamic shape, size, and gravitational field. Modern space geodetic observations underpin not only our ability to determine precise location on Earth and in orbit, but a broad number of scientific fields that address…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
View all details for KGG307 Geodesy: Observing Our Changing Planet
In this unit students apply previously acquired knowledge of spatial measurement techniques, instrumentation and software to a range of specific surveying tasks e.g. industrial metrology, construction surveying (monument selection, control networks and set out techniques), road design (horizontal and vertical…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
Observations of many different types are central to the determination of information across the geospatial sciences. In this unit, students will gain knowledge in the theory and practical application of least squares adjustment techniques including the reduction of raw measurements;…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
Electives
Entry requirements
For Domestic students
We encourage you to apply for the courses you most want to study. If you are not eligible to enter your chosen course right now, the admissions team will work with you to find the best pathway option.
Enquire online for advice on the application process and the available pathways to study.
Domestic applicants who recently completed secondary educationApplicants are ranked by ATAR and offers made based on the number of places available. This course has a Guaranteed ATAR of 65.
In 2022, the lowest ATAR to receive an offer into this course was 74.90. The lowest ATAR to receive an offer may change from year to year based on the number of applications we receive.
Applicants who have recently completed senior secondary studies but have not received an ATAR may still be eligible for admission. We will consider your subject results on a case-by-case basis when we assess your application.
Domestic applicants with higher education studyTo be eligible for an offer, applicants must have:
- Partially completed an undergraduate course at Diploma level or higher (or equivalent). Applicants must have completed at least two units of study (equivalent to 25 UTAS credit points). If an applicant has failed any units the application may be subject to further review before an offer is made; OR
- Completed the UTAS University Preparation Program (or an equivalent qualification offered by an Australian University).
To be eligible for an offer, applicants must have completed a Certificate IV (or equivalent) in any discipline.
Domestic applicants with work and life experienceApplicants without senior secondary, tertiary or VET / TAFE study can complete a personal competency statement.
Applicants may be eligible for an offer if they have relevant work and / or life experiences which demonstrate a capacity to succeed in this course.
Subject PrerequisitesThese prerequisites apply to students from all educational backgrounds.
To be an eligible for an offer, you must have studies or experience equivalent to a satisfactory achievement in the following Tasmanian Senior Secondary subject:
- Mathematics Methods (MTM415117)
You can enquire online for information on interstate and international equivalents to the Tasmanian senior secondary subject above. If you have not met this prerequisite, you will need to complete a UTAS foundation unit before you start your course.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONIf your ability to access or participate in education has been affected by circumstances beyond your control, you can apply for special consideration as part of your application. We will consider a range of factors for special consideration, including economic hardship, a serious medical condition or disability.
We can only approve applications for special consideration where we are confident that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in your studies. If your application is not approved, the UTAS admissions team will work with you to find the best alternative pathway to your chosen course. Special consideration is not available for international applicants.
For International students
All international students will need to meet the minimum English Language Requirements, University General Entry Requirements and any course specific requirements such as pre-requisite subjects, if applicable.
English Language RequirementsThis degree requires an IELTS (Academic) of 6.0, with no individual band less than 5.5, or a PTE Academic score of 50, with no score lower than 42 or equivalent.
For students who do not meet the English Language Requirement through citizenship or prior studies in English in an approved country, evidence of an approved English language test completed within the last 2 years must be provided. See the English Language Requirements page for more information.
General Entry RequirementsAdmission to undergraduate courses at the University of Tasmania requires the completion of qualifications equivalent to a 12th year of education in Australia.
Please review the equivalent undergraduate entry requirements to see the minimum requirement relevant to your country. The ATAR information for this course is located in the “For Domestic Students” section of the entry requirements on this page.
You can also meet the General Entry Requirement for this course with the following qualifications or prior studies:
- Completion of an equivalent AQF Certificate IV or above
- Complete or incomplete (minimum 25 credit points) of previous tertiary study at Bachelor level or higher
If you do not meet the minimum requirements, we offer the Foundation Studies Program.
Course Specific RequirementsThe following course specific requirements must be met to be eligible to study this degree.
To be an eligible for an offer, you must have studies or experience equivalent to a satisfactory achievement in the following Tasmanian Senior Secondary subject:
- Mathematics Methods (MTM415117) or equivalent
If you have not met a required pre-requisite, you will need to complete a University of Tasmania Foundation Studies Program before you start your course.
Articulation
Successful completion of this degree meets the entry requirements for the Graduate Diploma of Land Surveying.
Successful completion of this degree meets the entry requirements for the Bachelor of Surveying and Spatial Sciences (Honours)
If you successfully complete this course, you may be also be eligible to apply for a range of other postgraduate courses including Graduate Certificates and Graduate Diplomas and Masters by coursework and research. Filter the Course lists by Postgraduate to view the current courses available.
Alternative entry pathways
If you haven't completed the required pre-requisite unit(s), we offer foundation units to help you bridge the gap. Many run in spring and summer school so you can meet a prerequisite and not delay the start of your Bachelor level studies. HECS scholarships may also be available for domestic students.
- Visit Foundation Units to find out more.
If you aren’t eligible for an offer to this course, you should consider enrolment in the Diploma of University Studies or the University Preparation Program.
In all cases, contact us to discuss an option best suited to your needs.
Detailed Admissions Information
Detailed admissions information and advice for all undergraduate courses, including comprehensive, course-level student profiles, is available from UTAS Admissions.
Fees & scholarships
Domestic students
Cost shouldn’t get in the way of you studying.
If you’re a domestic student, you may be eligible for a Commonwealth Supported Place in this course. This means your fees will be subsidised by the Australian Government. You’ll only need to pay the student contribution amount for each unit you study within the course.
You may also be able to defer payment of the student contribution amount by accessing a HECS-HELP loan from the Government. If eligible, you’ll only have to pay your tuition fees once you start earning above a specific amount.
Further information is available at Scholarships, fees and costs.
Student contributionStudent contribution amounts are charged for each unit of study. This means that how much you’ll pay will depend on which units you choose. Find out more about student contribution amounts.
Further informationDetailed fee information for domestic students is available at Scholarships, fees and costs, including additional information in relation to the compulsory Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).
International students
2023 Total Course Fee (international students): $114,775 AUD*.
Course cost based on a rate of $36,950 AUD per standard, full-time year of study (100 credit points).
* Please note that this is an indicative fee only.
International students
This rate is inclusive of the compulsory Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).
For more information on international fees, head to the International Fees website.
International students are charged the Student Services and Amenities Fee but this fee is incorporated in the annual rate. International students do not have to make any additional SSAF payments.
Scholarships
Scholarships for domestic students
Each year, the University offers more than 900 awards to students from all walks of life, including: those who have achieved high academic results, those from low socio-economic backgrounds, students with sporting ability, students undertaking overseas study, and students with a disability.
Scholarships specific to this degree include:
- Nick Martin Tasmania University Scholarship in Surveying and Spatial Sciences
- City of Launceston Environment Scholarship
- Tasmanian Spatial Industry Honours Scholarship
The University provides a number of relocation scholarships to encourage students relocating from interstate, or Tasmanian students who are required to move away from home, to study the Bachelor of Surveying and Spatial Sciences and to assist with relocation expenses.
For information on all scholarships available at the University of Tasmania, please visit the scholarships website.
Applications for most awards commencing in Semester 1 open at the beginning of August and close strictly on 31 October in the year prior to study.
Scholarships for international students
There are a huge range of scholarships, bursaries and fee discounts available for international students studying at the University of Tasmania. For more information on these, visit the International Scholarships website.
How can we help?
Do you have any questions about choosing a course or applying? Get in touch.
- Domestic
- 1300 363 864
- International
- +61 3 6226 6200
- Course.Info@utas.edu.au
- Online
- Online enquiries