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ARDHI UNIVERSITY

Department of Geospatial Sciences and Technology

Introduction
The Department of Geospatial Science and Technology (GST) is among the four departments of the School of Earth Sciences, Real Estate, Business and Informatics (SERBI). GST isa leading academic Department for Geospatial Sciences education and research in Tanzania. The Department's emphasis is teaching, research and community services on collection, modeling, analysis, and management of geospatial data for various applications. These are but not limited to map-making, cadastral surveys, engineering surveys, control surveys and remote sensing and geographic information management. The Department has a suite of well-equipped equipment and laboratory supporting study and research in the area of photogrammetry, remote sensing, geodetic and engineering surveys.  Our graduates are able to apply theories in practice as our programmes are project- oriented.

Vision
To be a leading geospatial sciences education Centre of excellence in the country and Africa at large.

Mission
To provide high quality higher learning education, training, research and community services in the field of geospatial sciences in order to produce competitive geospatial sciences experts by equipping them with the necessary knowledge, skills, competence and innovation.  

Core values:
Our Core Values are:

  •  Professionalism
  • Competence
  • Integrity
  • Trustworthy
  • Accountability
  • Teamwork

Programme Offered

The Department offers the following Under Graduate and Post Graduate degrees;

Undergraduate Degree:

  1. Bachelor of Science in Geomatics
  2. Bachelor of Science in Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing

Postgraduate Degree:

  1. Doctor of Philosophy in Geospatial Sciences
  2. Master of Science in Geomatics
  3. Master of Science in Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing
  4. Master of Science in Geographical Information (Full-time & Evening)

Bachelor of Science in Geomatics

i) Direct Entry (Form VI) Qualifications
A principal level pass in Advanced Mathematics and a principal level pass in either Physics or Geography or Chemistry or Computer Science. In case the second principal level pass is not Physics, the candidate MUST have at least a subsidiary level pass in Physics at A.C.S.E.E. in addition to the two principal level passes.

ii) Equivalent Qualifications
Diploma in Geomatics or Land Surveying or Cartography or Computer Science or Engineering or Mining Surveying or Civil Engineering or Civil and Transportation Engineering or Irrigation Engineering with GPA of 3.0 or an average of “B” OR FTC with an average of “C” OR any other relevant Diploma of not less than Upper Second Class/B+ OR a Distinction for unclassified Diplomas from recognized institutions. In addition equivalent entry applicants MUST have at least a “C” grade in Mathematics at CSEE and at least a “D” grade in physics at CSEE.

Duration: Four (4) Years full-time

Expected Learning Outcome

Knowledge:

  • A thorough knowledge and understanding of the principles and theoretical basis for Geomatics and associated sub-fields.
  • A sound knowledge and understanding of how the earth surface, terrestrial and offshore, can be measured within requisite accuracies and represented in graphical formats as maps, charts, 3D models and other relevant formats.
  • Comprehensive understanding of theoretical, methodological and technological aspects related to cadastral, topographical, engineering, mining, hydrographic and other related surveys; photogrammetry, Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), digital mapping, cartography, remote sensing and GIS and other relevant thematic areas constituting classical and recent developments in geomatics.
  • An appropriate understanding of standards and specifications for different types of surveying/Geomatics practices including rules, regulations, laws and policies governing the practice and the use of outputs generated by graduates of geomatics.
  • An understanding of the professional, ethical and social issues with commitment to quality and dependability

Skills: 

  • Able to identify and use relevant and multiple surveying instruments and equipment such as Total Station, GNSS receivers, Levels, Echo sounders etc., to acquire field spatial data on land and offshore
  • Identify and use standard techniques in analyzing positional accuracy of spatial data acquired in different measurement systems
  • Competently use geosoftware and other tools and techniques for processing, analyzing, managing, presentation and dissemination of geospatial data. 
  • Prepare standard maps, charts, profiles, sections and other outputs needed by respective users.

Competence: 

  • Supply spatial data and professional advice on a routine basis e.g. cadastral survey plans, topographical site maps, road and other route surveys etc. to facilitate sustainable development
  • Provide relevant stakeholders and players with timely spatial information for decision making and early warnings through monitoring of natural features e.g. land cover, natural forces e.g. seismic tremors, manmade features e.g. deformation of structure, and other objects and phenomena of interest to the survival of mankind.
  • Solve real world multidisciplinary problems utilizing spatial data with relevant accuracies
  • Respond to the general spatial data needs e.g. base maps and specific spatial data needs of different disciplines across the public and private sectors.

Bachelor of Science in Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing

i) Direct Entry (Form VI) Qualifications
Two principal level passes in any of the following subjects: Advanced Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Geography, Computer Science, Biology, Economics, or Agriculture. In case one of the two principal level passes is not in Advanced Mathematics, a candidate MUST have at least a subsidiary level pass in either Basic or Advanced Mathematics at A.C.S.E.E. or at least a “C” grade at C.S.E.E.

ii) Equivalent Qualifications
Diploma in Geomatics, Land Surveying, Cartography, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Technology, Computer Networks, Computing and Information Communication, Civil Engineering, Civil and Transportation Engineering, Water Supply and Sanitation Engineering, Environmental Health Science, Hydrogeology and Well Drilling, Hydrology and Meteorology, Irrigation Engineering or Water Resources Engineering Geoinformatics, Geoinformation Science, GIS, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Tourism, Natural Resources Management, Forestry, Agriculture/Agricultural Engineering and water Resource Management with GPA of 3.0 or an average of “B” OR FTC with an average of “C” OR any other relevant Diploma of not less than Upper Second Class/B+ OR a Distinction for unclassified Diplomas from recognized institutions. In addition equivalent entry applicants MUST have at least a “C” grade at C.S.E.E.

Duration: Four (4) Years full-time

 Expected Learning Outcome
Knowledge

  • A thorough knowledge and understanding of the principles of remote sensing and geographical information systems as applied to the terrestrial and/or oceanic environments
  • A sound knowledge and understanding of how the terrestrial and/or ocean environments can be observed and measured using remote sensors
  • Comprehensive understanding of Geographic Information and Remote Sensing systems with a particular emphasis on the acquisition, integration and analysis of data within a diverse range of multidisciplinary fields and building decision support systems for governance in broader application fields.
  • Able to accurately collect, process and present geospatial data from various data sources, and apply appropriate GIS models and geospatial tools and knowledge to analyse and solve spatially related problems
  • Able to integrate and exploit knowledge of various modern geospatial technologies to for solving spatially related problems in a professional, timely and cost-effective manner

Skills

  • Skills in applications of GIS and Remote Sensing for solving real world problems by predicting, monitoring, and mitigating environmental disasters, land administration and management, natural and mineral resources management, agriculture, forestry, transportation and utility management.
  • Skills in using GIS and Remote Sensing Software and tools for processing, analysis and dissemination of geospatial data.
  • Skills in designing and development of GIS based applications (GIS Apps) for solving real world problems.

Competencies

  • Accurately collect geospatial data using a combination of technologies.
  • Develop and utilize remote sensing systems and geographic information system for studying the environment, monitoring and analyzing earth resources

Master of Science in Geomatics

i) Direct Entry Qualifications
An undergraduate degree in Land Surveying, Geomatics, Geodesy, Civil Engineering, Geology, Navigation, Mining Engineering, Geophysics and other Geosciences degree programmes with at least a Lower Second Class (Overall GPA of 2.7 and above).

ii) Equivalent Qualifications
A Postgraduate Diploma in the above fields from a recognized institution with an overall upper second class or overall grade “B+” in the results of the respective final examinations and approved by the Ardhi University Senate.

Duration: 18 Months full-time

Expected Learning Outcome
Knowledge

  • Understand the fundamental and advanced principles of Geomatics,
  • A thorough knowledge and understanding on how to Measure, collect, process, present and analyse geospatial data about the earth’s surface for cadastral, topographical, mining and engineering surveys using conventional & modern equipment, methods and techniques e.g. satellites in accordance with the present tolerances and accuracies,
  • Comprehensive understanding of technological methods and knowledge on how to Locate and set out engineering structures using modern surveying and Satellite Positioning Techniques,
  • Have appropriate understanding of the requisite to carry out all sorts of legal surveys necessary for land registration, titling and access to secure land tenure.
  • Have understanding on how to apply state of the art techniques in mining surveys, route surveys, monitoring of engineering structure stability and industrial metrology.
  • Conversant to establish control frameworks for designing of medium scale geodetic networks, 
  • Ability to conduct research mainly limited to plane areas, for example about engineering structural deformations, impacts of global warming and the like.

Skills

  • Skills in the acquisition, processing, analysis, management and presentation of geospatial data as maps, charts or profiles.
  • Skills in using advanced geospatial data software and tools for processing, analysis and dissemination of geospatial data.
  • Skills in using multiple surveying instruments for data acquisition such as Total station, GNSS receivers, different types of levels and data processing skills.

Competencies

  • Accurately measure and collect information about the earth’s surface using a combination of technologies ranging from conventional surveying equipment, ground-based sensors, air- borne sensors and space borne sensors
  • Accurately determining the temporal and spatial coordinates (location) of objects and phenomena of interest to the survival of mankind.
  • Professionally be able to prepare and present reports for decision making for other dependent professionals whose works require geomatician output.

Master of Science in Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing

i) Direct Entry Qualifications
An undergraduate degree in Geoinformatics, GIS and Remote Sensing, Remote Sensing, Geography, Land Surveying, Geomatics, Geodesy, Civil Engineering, Geology, Navigation, Mining Engineering, Geophysics and other Geosciences degree programmes with at least a Lower Second Class (Overall GPA of 2.7 and above).

ii) Equivalent Qualifications
A postgraduate diploma from a recognized institution with an overall grade of “B+” in the results of the respective final examinations and approved by the Ardhi University Senate.

Duration: 18 Months full-time or 24 Months evening class

Expected Learning Outcome
Knowledge

  • Understand the fundamental principles of geographical information systems and 
  • remote sensing as applied to the terrestrial and/or oceanic environments
  • Apply spatial knowledge to solve real world problems in multidisciplinary fields of study and generate added value knowledge and information to citizens for the benefit of the society.
  • Understand and apply the knowledge of how the terrestrial and/or ocean environments can be observed and measured remotely using remote sensors.
  • Apply the gained knowledge in GIS and RS efficiently to solve real world problems

Skills

  • Skills in applications of GIS and Remote Sensing for solving real world problems by predicting, monitoring, and mitigating environmental disasters, land administration and management, natural and mineral resources management, agriculture, forestry, transportation and utility management.
  • Skills in using GIS and Remote Sensing Software and advanced tools and algorithms for processing, analysis and dissemination of geospatial data.
  • Skills in designing and development of GIS based applications (GIS Apps) for solving real world problems.

Competencies

  • Accurately collect geospatial data using a combination of technologies.
  • Develop and utilize remote sensing systems and geographic information system for studying the environment, monitoring and analyzing earth resources

Master of Science in Geographical Information Systems

i) Direct Entry Qualifications
The minimum entry qualification for admission into the programme is a lower second Bachelor degree (Overall GPA of 2.7 and above) in any field that applies knowledge and skills from the Geospatial Sciences.

ii) Equivalent Qualifications
A postgraduate diploma from a recognized institution with an overall grade of “B+” in the results of the respective final examinations and approved by the Ardhi University senate.

iii) Other Qualifications
Working experience of at least two years in a relevant field will be an added advantage.Positive recommendations from two referees one from an academic institution where the candidate graduated and one from the practice/employer.

Duration: 18 Months full-time or 24 Months evening class

Expected Learning Outcome

Knowledge

  • Advanced knowledge and understanding of the principles of geographical information systems.
  • A sound knowledge and understanding of how the spatial data can be managed, processed, analysed and visualized using geographical information systems tools and procedures.
  • Comprehensive understanding of the application of Geographical Information Systems within a diverse range of multidisciplinary fields and how to build decision support systems for governance.

Skills

  • Skills in applying GIS to model earth-based problems and find solutions for decision-making.
  • Skills in using GIS Software and tools for processing, analysis, visualizing, and dissemination of geospatial data.

Competencies

  • Accurately collect information about the earth’s surface using a combination of technologies ranging from ground-based sensors, air- borne sensors and space borne sensors
  • Accurately determining the temporal and spatial coordinates (location) of objects and phenomena of interest to the survival of mankind.
  • Develop and utilize geographical information systems for studying the environment, monitoring and analyzing earth resources

Doctor of Philosophy in Geospatial Science

Entry Requirement: A good Master degree in the area of specialization

Duration: 3 Years

Research Activities

The Department’sresearch areas are as follow:

  • Geodynamics
  • Geodesy
  • GIS and Remote Sensing
  • Spatial Data Infrastructure
  • Land Administration

Existing Links, Partnerships and Collaborative Research Projects

Name of the project: Tectonic and magmatic processes during early-stage rifting: an integrated study of northern Lake Nyasa, Africa

Overall Objective of the project:

Names of collaborating institutions:

  1. Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University
  2. Pennsylvania State University,
  3. University of Rochester,
  4. Syracuse University, Cornell University and the United States Geological Survey

Name of the project:  GeoICt4e -Social innovations in Geo-ICT education at Tanzania Higher Education

Overall Objective of the project: The main outcome of ‘GeoICT4e’ is that the Tanzanian universities have improved management and teaching capacities in the impact-driven and socially innovative geospatial and ICT education, leading to graduates’ better employment.

Names of collaborating institutions

  1. University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM)
  2. Ardhi University (ARU)
  3. Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA)
  4. State University of Zanzibar (SUZA)
  5. Moshi Co-operative University (MoCU)
  6. University of Turku (UTU)
  7. Turku University of Applied Sciences (TUAS)
  8. Novia University of Applied Sciences (Novia UAS)

Available research infrastructure: The department has a number of high tech equipment and research facilities to cater for research, teaching and learning. These are not limited to the following

  1. CORS station
  2. MESA Satellite receiving station
  3. Automatic Tide Gauge
  4. Digital Photogrammetric Workstation
  5. GPS receivers
  6. Total stations and Robotic Total Stations
  7. Automatic levels

 

Department of Geospatial
Sciences and Technology Department of Computer
Systems and Mathematics Department of Business
Studies (DBS) Department of Land
Management and Valuation