| Code | PDGIS |
|---|---|
| Duration | 9 months |
| Teaching Mode | Part-Time |
| Qualifications | PG Dip |
| NFQ Level | Level 9 |
| EU Fees | 4,500 See Fees and Costs for full details. |
| Closing Date | General Applications: 22 August 2025. Springboard+ Applications: 16 July 2025 |
| Start Date | 8 September 2025 |
Course Outline
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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)
Academic Programme Catalogue
See the Academic Programme Catalogue where you can search for the complete and up-to-date content for this course. Note that the modules for all courses are subject to change from year to year. For complete descriptions of individual modules, see the Book of Modules.
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
Applicants must have a Second-Class Honours Grade 2 in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8).
A quota will be allocated to applicants who do not meet these entry requirements. These applicants will be considered under Recognition of Prior Learning and assessed on the following factors:
- Academic achievement
- Prior Work Experience
- Letter of Reference
- Personal Statement
All applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language proficiency. See our English language proficiency requirements .
For Applicants with Qualifications Completed Outside of Ireland
Applicants must meet the required entry academic grade, equivalent to Irish requirements. For more information see our Qualification Comparison page.
International/Non-EU Applicants
For full details of the non-EU application procedure visit our how to apply pages for international students.
- In UCC, we use the term programme and course interchangeably to describe what a person has registered to study in UCC and its constituent colleges, schools, and departments.
- Note that not all courses are open to international/non-EU applicants, please check the fact file above. For more information contact the International Office.
English Language Requirements
Applicants who are non-native speakers of the English language must meet the university-approved English language requirements. Visit our PG English Language Requirements page for more information.
Fees and Costs
The EU fee for this course is 4,500.
Postgraduate EU and International Fees 2025/2026
See our Postgraduate EU and Non-EU (International) Fee Schedule for the latest information.
Deposits
If your course requires a deposit, that figure will be deducted from your second-semester fee payment in January.
Fee payment
Fees are payable in two equal instalments. First payment is at registration and the balance usually by the end of January.
How can I pay?
See different options on our How Do I Pay My Fees? page.
Any questions? See the 'Contact Us' section on the Fees Office page.
General Applications
- Standard EU Fee: 4,500
- Standard non-EU Fee: 9,600
Springboard+ Funding
There are a number of subsidised places available on this programme.
- Those in employment may be eligible to receive a 90% fee subsidy (applicant pays €450)
- Those unemployed may be eligible to receive a 100% fee subsidy (applicant pays no fees)
How To Apply
1. Check dates
Check the opening and closing dates for the application process in the yellow fact file boxes at the top of this webpage. The UCC online application portal usually opens around mid October.
2. Gather documents
Scanned copies of supporting documents have to be uploaded to the UCC online application portal and include:
- Original qualification documents listed on your application, including transcripts of results from institutions other than UCC.
- Any supplementary items requested for your course, if required.
3. Apply online
Apply online by clicking the red 'Apply Now' button below. Note most of our courses have a non-refundable €50 application fee.
Any questions? Use our web enquiry form to contact us.
Springboard+ Funded Applicants
To apply for this programme with Springboard funding, you must do so via the Springboard+ website.
Please click here to start your application.
General Applicants
For those who wish to apply directly without Springboard+ funding, applications will open soon.