Hobart
Introduction
The fundamental role of a surveyor is to measure and map urban and natural environments using specialist equipment and geometric computations. In this unit, you will learn about the fundamentals of surveying data collection, reduction and analysis techniques employed across all sectors of the profession. During the semester, you will develop theoretical and technical knowledge alongside the practical, field-based skills required to undertake basic surveying tasks. The unit will introduce you to fundamental surveying topics such as introduction to specialist instrumentation; basic data collection methodologies; measurement of length, direction and angles; statistical and error analysis of measurement data. In this unit, you are given multiple opportunities to implement your technical and theoretical knowledge via weekly practical classes where you will use levels and total stations to undertake basic survey tasks and solve simple real-world problems.
Summary
| Unit name | Fundamentals of Surveying |
| Unit code | KGG255 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Sciences and Engineering School of Geography, Planning, and Spatial Sciences |
| Discipline | Geography, Planning, and Spatial Sciences |
| Coordinator | Doctor Rachael Hurd |
| Available as an elective? | Yes |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Intermediate |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 21/2/2027 | 15/3/2027 | 18/4/2027 | 12/6/2027 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2027 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2027 will be available from the 1st October 2026. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Apply survey methodologies to collect spatial data.
- Analyse survey data using a range of computational methodologies.
- Appraise error sources that affect survey outcomes.
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | 2 x 1-hour seminars, 1 x 1-hour tutorial, 1 x 3-hour practical per week. |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Basic Survey Techniques Reports (10%)|Join and Radiation Survey Reports (15%)|Levelling Practical Test (15%)|Levelling Survey Reports (15%)|Total Station Practical Test (20%)|Traverse Survey Reports (25%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
You will need to download a copy of the following online PDF-book:
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|---|---|
| Recommended | If you wish to have a surveying textbook that you can refer to as a useful resource throughout your studies/career in surveying, we recommend:
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The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.