Geographic Sciences

This program gives you the options you need to start a successful career in geographic sciences. The first year sets your foundation and gives you a solid grounding in the basics of geographic sciences, the geomatics tools and technology (e.g., GPS, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing) that supports them, and how each of the individual disciplines fits into that process. In the first year, you identify your strengths and interests; preparing you to choose a second year specialization.

In the second year, you can select a predefined concentration or customize your own courses in an interdisciplinary approach. Whatever your choice, this program gives you an understanding of the world of geographic sciences and the skills to be successful.

• NSCC's Centre of Geographic Sciences (COGS) is the only school in this region to offer this unique entry level Geomatics program. We have designed the program with significant input from industry to ensure that the skills you learn with us are relevant to today’s employers.


• You’ll benefit by learning in a building dedicated to geomatics alongside other students studying related disciplines. Small class sizes provide lots of opportunities for one-on-one interaction and support. You’ll also be using the most up-to-date equipment and software and get the hands-on training that makes NSCC grads the preferred choice of employers.

• 92% of NSCC grads are employed and most of them in jobs related to their field of study (NSCC Graduate Follow-up Survey, 2008). And with Geomatics, 88% of grads find work within six months of graduation.


• Graduates will be entering a healthy and rapidly-growing industry. Full details of employment opportunities are included with each concentration.

• High School Graduation Diploma or equivalent.

• Coursework or experience in geographic science as well as essential computer skills (computer terminology, file management, internet and office applications) are recommended to support your success at COGS. You’re required to lease a computer, which you own at the end of this program. We’ll supply all necessary peripherals, software and data required to support your learning.


• Through NSCC's Recognizing Prior Learning (RPL) process, you may be able to earn or transfer credits for your past work experience, education, and volunteer activities. Check with the campus registrar for more details.


• Co-operative Education (Co-op) – This program is eligible for an optional Co-op credit course. Co-op provides an opportunity for paid employment between the first and second year of your program. Employers, as co-educators, provide learning opportunities beyond the bounds of the classroom giving you a well-rounded education enriched by practical application.