Geoinformatics is the science and technology required for the collection, storage, processing, analysis, visualization, interpretation, and distribution of geospatial information, i.e., any information with implicit or explicit reference to a location relative to the Earth. Geoinformatics is also sometimes referred to as geographic information science or geospatial data science. Much of the geospatial information of today is captured remotely, e.g. through satellites or drones with equipment that makes use of the electromagnetic spectrum (photography) or radar. Geoinformatics students are exposed to all aspects of working with geospatial data, including programming, spatial analysis, machine learning, geovisualization, data ethics, and governance. Our students get trained in state-of-the-art technology and equipment in the department, preparing them for the geoinformatics workplace of the future. Due to rapidly advancing geospatial technologies and ever-increasing volumes of geospatial information, there is no shortage of job opportunities. 

Programmes in our department

• BSc Geoinformatics
• BScHons Geoinformatics
• MSc Geoinformatics
• PhD Geoinformatics

The BSc Geoinformatics and BScHons Geoinformatics programmes are accredited by the South African Geomatics Council (SAGC). BSc Geoinformatics graduates meet the academic requirements for registration as Geomatics Technologist in GISc (GTg GISc). If they also complete the BScHons Geoinformatics, they meet the academic requirements for registration as Geomatics Professional in GISc (GPr GISc). Many South African government tenders and job descriptions require such professional registration. 

Career opportunities

Geoinformatics graduates from UP readily find work at organisations, such as: 

• Vendors of geographic information system (GIS) software, e.g., Esri or lntergraph
• GIS consultants, e.g., AfriGIS, GeoTerralmage or GISCOE
• Civil engineering consultants, e.g., Aurecon or SSI
• Planning consultants, e.g., Cadreplan or Plan Practice
• Environmental consultants, e.g. Golder or Pegasys
• Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), South African National Space Agency (SANSA) or National Geo-spatial lnformation (NGI)
• Most government departments, e.g., Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), Science and Innovation (DSI), Statistics South Africa, Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD), and Water and Sanitation (DWS)
• Any municipality in the country