SIM to offer geographic information science degree

By Sandra Davie

Geographic information science may sound like a mouthful but consider that those trained in the field are involved in deciding where schools are located, and where bus routes and MRT lines run.

This is just one example of their skillsets. They can become cartographers, climatologists, ecologists, environmental scientists and managers, and urban and transportation planners.

The Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) will be offering a degree for those interested in this field through its partnership with the University at Buffalo, which is part of the State University of New York.

The degree programme can be completed in three years.

The curriculum will focus on the theoretical foundations of geographical information science; the development and use of state-of-the-art software and emerging technology; and the collection, processing and interpretation of geospatial information.

Graduates will be equipped with skills to identify patterns based on geospatial phenomena, which include the environment and human activities.

They will also be trained to use state-of-the-art software and technologies, to help them solve geospatial problems in a variety of fields, including social media.

University at Buffalo and SIM officials said there are good job opportunities in a wide range of employment sectors, both in the government and private sectors.

Said an SIM spokesman: "In Singapore, the Singapore Land Authority and the Government Technology Agency play an active role in driving the nation's geospatial development. A geospatial master plan, called Geospatial Singapore, is in place to support the upcoming developments.

"This master plan signifies a whole-of-nation approach to collectively maximize the use of geospatial information and technology for Singapore's Smart Nation initiative as well as for the country's future economy."

Published JUN 10, 2019

The Straits Times

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