Vertiefung in optionalen Modulen

Study online

UNIGIS offers its degree programs as fully online distance learning courses. An online degree program differs from a traditional on-campus program primarily in terms of organization and learning format—but not in terms of content. You will learn conceptual fundamentals and apply them in practice through exercises. The MSc program also includes content on academic research. The biggest difference lies in the pedagogical structure: An online degree program is largely self-directed, flexible, and can be tailored to your needs. This makes it easy to balance your studies with professional and personal commitments. At the same time, this form of learning requires good time management and a great deal of initiative and self-motivation. However, studying online does not mean learning alone. From the very beginning, you’ll complete the modules together with your cohort. Interaction with fellow students is actively encouraged—for example, through discussion forums or self-organized study groups.

Study online

How Distance Learning Works at UNIGIS

The program is divided into core modules that build on one another, each of which is completed over a period of 6–8 weeks. Depending on your prior knowledge and learning pace, you should plan on spending about 12–15 hours per week on coursework.

The UNIGIS program is distinguished by the fact that the learning materials are didactically coordinated and provide a clear thread running through the complex subject areas of geoinformatics. This fosters a comprehensive understanding of both theory and practice.

The program is divided into core modules that build on one another, each of which is completed over a period of 6–8 weeks. Depending on your prior knowledge and learning pace, you should plan on spending about 12–15 hours per week on coursework.

The UNIGIS program is distinguished by the fact that the learning materials are didactically coordinated and provide a clear thread running through the complex subject areas of geoinformatics. This fosters a comprehensive understanding of both theory and practice.

The carefully designed learning materials include not only precisely formulated core texts and corresponding practical exercises but also the use of various software solutions, as well as collaborative discussions, videos, self-tests, and tutorials.

To ensure permanent access to the course materials or to enable you to work even with a limited internet connection, we also offer the online learning materials for download.

In addition to the core modules, elective courses are available in the form of optional modules. The MSc program also includes content on academic research and the preparation of a master’s thesis.

Every degree program requires good time management as well as support from family, friends, and colleagues—and this also applies to online distance learning. The UNIGIS team will guide you throughout your studies and support you in various areas:

Faculty members are responsible for teaching the course content, supervising the modules, and evaluating your performance.
The UNIGIS Program Office assists you with organizational and administrative matters—such as admission, fees, or academic progress.
Your tutor (program team) monitors your academic progress and provides additional individualized support throughout your studies.
The alumni network “ClubUNIGIS” serves as a communication platform for you even after you graduate.

In our experience, learning in a group is a key factor in motivation and academic success. The more actively you participate, the more you will benefit from interacting with other students and the UNIGIS team.

Communication between students and the UNIGIS team takes place via discussion forums, online meetings, email or video call for individual support and a monthly, optional online get-together to chat about whatever we want.

UNIGIS Salzburg provides licenses for proprietary GIS software such as ArcGIS Pro or Octave Imagine (formerly ERDAS Imagine) and also works with free and open-source software such as QGIS and PostgreSQL.

Since the program sometimes involves computationally intensive processes (such as 3D visualization or spatiotemporal simulation), a high-performance computer with a suitable graphics card is recommended. Detailed information on the technical requirements can be found in the  hardware and software specifications of ArcGIS Pro. We would also be happy to advise you personally on this matter.

Performance assessment is conducted on a module-by-module basis through written assignments submitted via our e-learning platform. The assignments include, among other things, processing datasets using GIS software—including documentation of the steps taken—designing and discussing analytical workflows, and creating maps and dashboards. In some cases, the submitted assignments are supplemented by additional online discussions.

A five-point grading scale is used for performance assessment:

  • 1 – Excellent
  • 2 – Good
  • 3 – Satisfactory
  • 4 – Sufficient
  • 5 – Fail

In addition to a grade, you will always receive a written evaluation of the solution you submitted. This will allow you to learn from any mistakes you may have made or to choose alternative approaches suggested by your lecturers in the future.

The University of Salzburg issues internationally recognized degree documents, including a degree certificate, a Diploma Supplement, and a certificate stating the title or academic degree earned.