Haziq Zainal, Geospatial Surveying, Mapping and Geographic Information Science student, shares how Geospatial Engineering is delivered at Newcastle University.
Hello everyone, in this blog, I will be explaining how Geospatial Engineering is delivered at Newcastle University. The things that will be discussed are the timetable, modules, projects, fieldwork, and assessment.
Timetable
Each academic year, there will be two semesters. For every semester, the weekly schedule will most likely be the same. In the exception of practical, some will occur bi-weekly.
In terms of compactness, the first semester will always be more relaxed. It is less compacted than other engineering fields like mechanical and civil. However, for our second year, it was packed regardless of what semester it was.
Modules
Most of the modules will have a practical (or computing) session. For every practical session, there will be members of the staff to assist. This is an excellent opportunity to apply what you have learned in lectures or learn it hands-on.
Projects
Projects will usually be in the form of coursework using industrial software. For example, in GIS, the software used was ArcGIS Pro. Which is used in many companies in the geomatics field.
For the weighing, most of the modules will carry 30% coursework, however, due to online learning, certain modules rose up to 50%, and some are even 100% coursework-based.
In my opinion, these projects and coursework are pretty interesting. It really helps your learning, and most of the software are used in the geospatial industries.
Fieldwork
There will always be fieldwork in every academic year. These fieldworks are considered one module. It is heavily practical-based and will be in the form of group work. For the first and third years, there will be field trips that test your surveying skills. These field trips will allow you to get to know your cohorts and staff in addition to the fantastic countryside view.
Assessment
The assessment for each module will be based on an exam. It will usually occur after winter break and the Easter holiday. Due to the current situation, the assessments are 24-hour online exams. The weighting for the 24-hour exams is varied depending on the module.
In summary, the course is taught with a fair share of theory and practical works. A majority of the assessment will be based on 24-hour online exams and coursework submission.
Want to know more about Haziq's degree course? Click here to find out more about Geospatial Surveying, Mapping & GIS at Newcastle University.