Geodesy and Geoinformation

The objective of geodesy is the documentation of the anthroposphere through the use of surveys and geoinformation, and the representation of both according to the task at hand. Geodata describe, order and register human habitats according to particular characteristics, and also contribute to shaping and changing these habitats.

In addition to classic measuring instruments such as theodolites, laser scanners, and cameras, geodata is used in information systems, modern satellite technology and digital remote sensors. Geodesists develop automatic, computer-based procedures for the collection, processing, analysis and visualization of spatial information. The diversity of surveys ranges from global satellite-based surveys of the Earth through surveys of regions using airplanes to the terrestrial surveys of construction works and machines performed by engineers onsite. The geoinformation extracted from geodata provides citizens with the basis for legal clarity in the context of administrative and planning authorities and is prerequisite for creative, organizational and planning measures. Geodetic measuring procedures now play an increasingly significant role in catastrophe management, the monitoring of environmental risk, as well as in the exploration of the Earth system and of planets.

The master's program in Geodesy and Geoinformation builds upon the fundamentals provided in the bachelor's program, deepening students' knowledge of the areas of construction surveying, photogrammetry and remote sensing, higher geodesy and satellite geodesy, cartography and geoinformation science, as well as land regulation and development. During the course of the program, students can specialize in one of the following three areas: higher geodesy and satellite geodesy, photogrammetry, remote sensors and cartography, as well as geodesy, geoinformatics and land management.

Which further expertise and skills will I acquire?

In addition to a deepened knowledge of the discipline and its methodologies, as a graduate you are distinguished by your focus on quality and your sense of responsibility. You possess a distinctive understanding of spatiality and far-reaching knowledge of the planning, collection, storage, evaluation, efficient computer-based modeling, visualization, use and interpretation of spatial information on all scales, from the local to the global. With reference to specific tasks, you can determine the applicability of various sensors and evaluative processes. You are in a position to assess the input and steps required to deal with complex, discipline-specific problems, and to carry out these steps independently. You participate directly in current purely research projects, as well as research projects conducted in industry, which already provide you with practical experience of successfully completing complex projects.

You recognize interdisciplinary connections between the various branches of geodesy and neighboring disciplines and systematically broaden your knowledge beyond the boundaries of your discipline. Students specialize in the course of the program in one of three areas: higher geodesy and satellite geodesy; photogrammetry, remote sensors and cartography; or, geodesy, geoinformatics and land management.

Which professional opportunities can I take up with this qualification?

Opportunities for graduates of Geodesy and Geoinformation arise in research, as well as in different areas of public administration. Further options arise in various branches of the private sector. In addition to engineering consultancies, banks and insurance companies, this includes the areas of computer science, geographic information systems, photogrammetry, and spatial informatics, or the automobile and automation industries.