This Master's program combines geographical expertise with practical IT knowledge in spatial data science, geoinformatics, Geographic Artificial Intelligence (GeoAI), and geo-communication. The curriculum focuses on understanding and applying modern data-driven methods for spatial data analysis, alongside a deep dive into real-world challenges in areas like population geography, urban planning, economic geography, and digital geography. The program follows a two-pillar approach, equally emphasizing geography and geoinformation technology to equip students with the skills needed to address contemporary issues such as sustainability, climate change, AI, and digital transformation, and to visually communicate complex results across disciplines.
The Master's program is structured around compulsory modules including a Geography Pool, Core Skills in Spatial Data Science and GeoCommunication (further divided into Technical and Domain Skills), Specialization modules, 'Doing Spatial Data Science', and an Individual Specialisation. The program also includes Master's Thesis Seminars, the Master's Thesis itself, and a Public Defence. Key concepts covered include Geodata Management, modeling and simulation, programming and automation, interactive web/3D visualization, and GeoAI/Machine Learning.
Graduates are well-prepared for careers in various sectors requiring spatial information processing and data science skills. The program equips students for both immediate employment and further doctoral studies. Graduates find positions in industry, science, public institutions, and emerging professional fields.
Admission requires a C1 level certificate in German. The program has no entrance examination.
All students must pay a semester fee to the Students' Union. For non-EU/EEA students, specific tuition fees may apply depending on regulations. More details on fees can be found on the University of Vienna's tuition fee pages.
You need to have completed a relevant Bachelor's program. Additionally, a C1 level certificate in German is required, as the program is taught in German. There is no entrance examination.
The Spatial Data Science and GeoCommunication Master's program is structured over two years. Year 1 focuses on foundational modules, while Year 2 includes specialization, the Master's Thesis, and its public defence.
EU/EEA students do not pay tuition fees but must pay a regular semester fee. Non-EU/EEA students are subject to tuition fees according to Austrian law, though specific amounts for this program are not detailed here.
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Geodata Analyst, GIS Specialist, Spatial Data Scientist, and Geo-communication Specialist in industry, science, and public institutions. The program also allows for further doctoral studies.
For programs without an entrance examination, the application period typically opens around June 22nd for the following academic year. It's recommended to check the University of Vienna's admission website for exact dates.