About Geomatic Engineering

Geomatic Engineering provides answers to an array of challenges: How can climate change be measured more accurately? How can underground resources be detected more effectively? How can the current methodology of land planning be improved?

　　Geomatic Engineering use tools and technology like GIS systems, remote sensing and land surveying to digitise the information of the spatial world around us. These tools and technology allow us to model, analyse and manage spatial data. This data is used to plan where buildings and structures ought to be constructed to ensure smart use of land. It is one of the fasted growing sciences, meaning that the skills you’ll learn will be in high demand in the future.

　　During your studies you’ll be exposed to an eclectic mix of subjects like mathematics, communication, design, computer science and physics. A broad knowledge base will prepare you for a fulfilling career in various fields such as telecommunication, resource exploration and land surveying.

　　

Is Geomatic Engineering right for me?

Geomatic Engineering encompasses many domains and if continuously learning new techniques of measuring sounds interesting to you then this degree could be the pathway you’ve been seeking. You’ll get to learn about geodesy, photogrammetry and other surveying techniques all the while getting to use the latest equipment like laser scanners, GPS receivers and total stations.

　　Students who are open to new experiences and tech-savvy have an edge over their peers when it comes to Geomatic Engineering. Constant technological breakthroughs are reshaping the field and it is necessary for students to stay up to date with them. Studying Geomatic Engineering opens a number of exciting opportunities for graduates in the workforce. If you have a flair for arithmetic and are detail-oriented, then this field could be the entry point into a successful career for you!

　　Geomatic engineers might frequently have to conduct field surveys before returning to their offices to compute the data. This mix of office and fieldwork is another unique point about this field.

　　

Geomatic Engineering study options and costs

　　Geomatic Engineering is a broad field and requires a lot of workers and thus a variety of programmes are available in the field. The most basic is a year-long diploma which will familiarise you with the rudiments of geomatics and engineering principles needed to operate the equipment. This diploma is typically sufficient for technician and assistant level roles.

　　A bachelor’s in Geomatic Engineering is typically 3-4 years long depending on what country you’ve applied to. This programme extensively covers both the theoretical underpinnings and application of techniques needed as a geomatic engineer. The average annual cost of a bachelor’s in this field is USD36,000 in the US and AUD46,000 in Australia.

　　Postgraduate level education is also available in this field for individuals looking to break into senior managerial roles or the academia. A master’s in Geomatic Engineering is 1.5-2 years long and costs around AUD35,000-45,000.

　　

Future outlook

The employment growth for geomatic engineers is currently growing as fast as the average of all other occupations. In the recent 5 years, the industry has expanded by more than $43 billion in the US alone. Experts opine that this growth will only accelerate in the future as tools of geospatial measurement become more precise and accurate. Talking about the market for geomatic services: it is expanding at an astounding 35% every year! This coupled with the high salaries of geomatic engineers makes this one of the most promising career paths.

　　

Career pathways for Geomatic Engineering graduates

　　

Geospatial Engineer

　　Geospatial engineers are experts in the measurement and management of geospatial data. They design, develop and manage systems used to collect and later analyse geospatial data about various geographical regions.

Geodesist

　　Geodesists work to maintain the coordinate framework of the map of our world allowing us to navigate. They work in agencies operational at the national and international levels. This is a geospatial research job and requires at least a post-graduate level qualification.

Cadastral Land Surveyor

　　A cadastral surveyor is responsible for demarcating the boundaries between the properties of different parties. They proffer advice to construction firms on how to best utilise the land available and where key structures like roads and bridges should be constructed for maximum utility.