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5. GG6501 Introduction to Geographical Information Systems (Wind)

Course Fact File

Code	GG6548
Duration	12 weeks
Teaching Mode	Part-Time. See Additional Teaching Mode Information for more info.
Fees	Programme fee €900 (€400 Skillnet funding available) See Fees and Costs for full details.
Closing Date	Round One: 26 June 2026
Next Intake	September 2026
Credits	5
Start Date	September 2026

Course Outline

Develop an understanding of the core concepts behind Geographical Information Systems (GIS), including how geographical data is defined, measured, structured, and represented, while building practical skills in applying GIS through hands-on exercises.

Module Overview:

This module explores the role of geographic information (GI) in society, andd introduces key principles and techniques of spatial data modelling.

You will examine field-based and object-based conceptualisations of space, and how these are expressed as spatial data structures. The module will explore the different ways in which this spatial and non-spatial data can be stored, retrieved, analysed, and applied. Practical GIS training is provided through hands-on laboratory sessions.

Additional Teaching Mode Information

Lecture Schedule: 

Day	Time	Semester
Monday	9.15-11.50am	One (Sep-Nov)

All lectures are recorded so students may choose to attend in-person, live online or review recorded content in their own time.

Course Practicalities

Assessment - continuous assessment 100 marks

Assignment	1 x 2000 word written report	25 marks
Assignment	1 x computer based practical	25 marks
Assignment	1 x final report (group and individual components)	40 marks
Presentation	1 x group presentation	10 marks

Why Choose This Course

Learning Outcomes: 

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

1	Critically assess how GI may be structured, organised and used in GIS.
2	Demonstrate skills and practical experience in the use of one or more commercial GIS products;
3	Explain the key skills and practical abilities needed to effectively use of one or more commercial GIS products.

 

Requirements

Programme Entry Requirements

• Applicants should have at least a Second Class Honours Grade II in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8) (180 ECTS credits or equivalent) from a recognised third-level institution, in Geography, Geology, Environmental Sciences, Biology, Oceanography, Physics, Mathematics, Engineering or a related discipline. 

Recognition of Prior Learning

Applicants who do not hold the above qualification, or who hold a qualification in another discipline (such as Arts or Social Sciences) may be eligible to apply through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

To be considered, applicants should have a demonstrable interest and/or experience in coastal and marine management, and who can offer sufficient numerical abilities and at least 2 years' experience in a relevant maritime industry (applied). 

• If you wish to apply via RPL, you must select “Yes” to the RPL question when completing your application in UCC Apply.
• As part of the application, you will be required to submit:
  • A Personal Statement outlining your motivation for applying and detailing relevant work or life experience.
  • Any other relevant supporting documentation evidencing your prior learning - please refer to the RPL Learner Guide for details on appropriate evidence.

Fees and Costs

Programme Fee:

The full programme fee is €900. If you are not eligible for the below funding, the course fee is €900.

 

Skillnet Funding

Skillnet is dedicated to fostering skills and expertise in the field of green technology. They are partnering with UCC on the Introduction to Geographical Information Systems micro-credential, subsidising part of the course fee for eligible participants. 

Eligible applicants will receive €400 funding towards the €900 course fee. 
Funded applicants pay €500. 

FUNDING ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 

To be eligible for Skillnet funding, applicants must: 

• Be based in the Republic of Ireland
• Be self-employed, or employed within a company that:
  • Is a private enterprise based in the Republic of Ireland
  • Is not a public sector body or a publicly funded organisation (e.g. community-based not-for-profits or charities) 

Please note: 

• Commercial semi-state companies are eligible, provided that the remaining programme fee is not funded from the public purse
• Sole traders are considered eligible as companies 

For any queries regarding funding, please contact training@skillnetoffshorewindacademy.ie, including the module you wish to apply for. 

How To Apply

We are now collecting expressions of interest for this programme: 

Introduction to GIS (Wind): GG6501 – Fill out form

Please complete the form above and we will contact you when this programme begins accepting applications for the next intake.