| Code | PDGIS |
|---|---|
| Duration | 9 months |
| Teaching Mode | Part-Time |
| Qualifications | PG Dip |
| NFQ Level | Level 9 |
| EU Fees | €4,500 (90%-100% Springboard+ Funding Available) See Fees and Costs for full details. |
| Closing Date | Springboard+ Applications: 16 July 2026 |
| Start Date | September 2026 |
Course Outline
A limited number of Springboard+ Funded places are available for this programme. Please see Fees and Apply Now sections below for full details.
In addressing the skill needs of the future workforce (skills to adapt to the changing workforce and business models of the future), the Postgraduate Diploma in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) addresses the demand for Spatial Data Science and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analysts.
Designed by the Department of Geography, in collaboration with GIS industry stakeholders, the diploma programme will provide you with knowledge of GIS, spatial data science, and cloud-based computing through practical hands-on training in the predominant GIS software.
The application of GIS tools is essential for industries in the field of infrastructure, water, telecommunications, and environmental management. GIS also finds extensive applications in market research, planning consultancies, engineering and construction, retail management, real estate, and resource management. Enterprises across these sectors recognise GIS as a crucial addition to their business processes.
GIS empowers spatial data science specialists to extract profound insights using a growing range of analytical methods, spatial algorithms, and effective project management and communication techniques.
The Postgraduate Diploma in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) is a one year part-time level 9 programme that will provide you with knowledge of GIS, spatial data science, and cloud-based computing through practical hands-on training in the predominant GIS software. On successful completion of this course, you will have acquired new and high-demand skills in GIS and spatial data science.
The diploma is delivered in the Department of Geography’s GIS laboratories, as a blended course that allows in person, fully online, or hybrid engagement, consisting of 4 x 15- credit modules:
- GG6452 Fundamentals of GIS - Key concepts of GIS and application of GIS skillsets (15 Credits)
- GG6543 Programming for GIS - Practical Introduction to programming applied GIS (15 Credits)
- GG6544 Cloud-Based GIS - Internet GIS geospatial analysis and mapping (15 Credits)
- GG6545 Geographic Data Science - Geographic Data Science applications and solutions (15 Credits)
Course Practicalities
This programme will be delivered in a blended manner comprising live online classes, online recordings, and face-to-face teaching where possible. Classes will be held in the Geography library and Fahy GIS laboratory (both in the Geography building), with lectures and practical sessions live-streamed and recorded. Students have the option of attending in person, online only, or a combination of both, and we have successfully engaged with students in multiple formats.
Assessment
There is a range of assessments integrated into the programme, to ensure inclusivity and diversity of learning. The key aims of this programme are to upskill and reskill individuals for a career in GIS, meaning many of the assignments are practical in nature, assess technical skillsets as well as written reports, and reflect deliverables often expected in the workplace. For the full overview of the assessment, please see UCC’s Book of Modules for a course breakdown.
Who Teaches this Course
The Department of Geography has an excellent team of GIS and geoinformatics specialists who deliver the programme, including Dr William Durkan, Dr Paul Holloway, Dr Fiona Cawkwell, and Dr Maedhbh Nic Lochlainn. This team delivers a range of teaching, alongside other colleagues from the Department of Geography, as well as guest speakers from industry and research.
Why Choose This Course
In Ireland, this course offers a unique opportunity to acquire a diverse set of skills and techniques in GIS, Remote Sensing, spatial data analysis and visualisation, programming, and internet GIS.
Through collaborations with department experts and invited speakers, you will gain exposure to a wide array of geoinformatics applications, expanding your professional knowledge and skills. Upon graduation, you will possess a comprehensive understanding of sought-after geospatial techniques valued by employers both in Ireland and internationally.
Skills and Careers Information
The demand for GIS applications in enterprises is rising as businesses value geospatial specialists for market exploration, data shaping, and effective communication in the digital economy.
In terms of demand, the GIS market in Ireland is mirroring the international growth in this area. The global GIS software market was valued at €52.1 billion in 2020, and has continued to grow since that time. In Europe, the GIS market is estimated to grow annually by 7.3% up to 2027, with recent estimates in the UK valuing the geospatial sector at 6Bn per annum, with over 2,500 employers and 37,500 staff.
This visible need, combined with 50+ graduates from the PGDip in GIS at UCC in the 2023/24 and 2024/25 academic years, supports both current market demand and our demonstrated ability to meet this demand. Our graduates are employed across a range of industries, including Offshore Wind, Renewables, Utility Companies (Energy/Water), Market Research, Planning, Consultancies, Engineering and Construction Firms, Retail Management and Real Estate, Resource and Environmental Management, Local Councils, and Higher Education.
Our Postgraduate Diploma in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) offers you the opportunity to reskill or upskill in GIS, preparing you to contribute significantly to public-facing enterprises involved in shaping national infrastructure and driving green energy transitions. Your specialist contribution, in meeting the evolving needs of enterprises in innovation and sustainability, will certainly enhance your employability in this field
Requirements
Programme Entry Requirements
Applicants must have a Second-Class Honours Grade 2 in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8).
English Language Requirement:
All applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language proficiency. See our English language proficiency requirements.
Springboard+ Eligibility Requirements
If you wish to apply as a Springboard+ funded applicant for this programme, you will need to meet the Springboard+ eligibility criteria.
Springboard+ funded applicants will also need to meet the programme entry and English language requirements listed above.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Applicants who do not meet these entry requirements will be considered under Recognition of Prior Learning and assessed on the following factors:
- Academic achievement
- Prior Work Experience
- Letter of Reference
- Personal Statement
Fees and Costs
Springboard+ Funding
There are a limited number of places available for this programme funded by Springboard+.
- Jobseekers and returners may be eligible for a 100% fee subsidy. These applicants will be given priority.
- Those in employment may be eligible for a 90% fee subsidy.
- If awarded Springboard+ funding, these applicants will need to pay the remaining 10% fee on registration (non-refundable).
- If an applicant's organisation wishes to pay their fees in part or in full, the applicants must pay the 10% on registration and any arrange any reimbursement with their employer/organisation directly.
Direct Applications
There are a number of places available on this programme for those applying directly to UCC as fee-paying applicants.
The fee for this programme is €4,500.
- Applicants pay 50% of this fee on application.
- This fee is fully refundable if the programme does not run or you are not offered a place on the programme
- The remaining 50% programme fee is due by 31 Jan.
Sponsorship
If your fees are fully or partially covered by your organisation, this is called sponsorship. You will need to apply as a sponsored applicant.
Springboard+ funded applicants are not eligible to apply with sponsorship and must arrange any reimbursement directly with their organisation (see above).
How To Apply
Springboard+ Funded Applicants
Those applying for Springboard+ funding may check their eligibility HERE.
If you wish to apply for Springboard+ funding for this course, you must do so via the Springboard+ website HERE.
You must choose one application route:
- Apply for Springboard+ funding, or
- Apply directly to the programme as a fee-paying applicant
Please note that applicants who have already applied via the direct (fee-paying) route are not eligible to subsequently apply for Springboard+ funding.
If your application for Springboard+ funding is not approved, you may have the option to apply as a fee-paying applicant, subject to availability of places.
General Applicants
For queries regarding course content or timetables please contact
Adult Continuing Education
Aosoideachas Leanúnach
Contact us
The Laurels, University College Cork, Western Road, Cork, T12 EH31