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Geographic Information Systems
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:20
Abstract
Introduction to the fundamental concepts and data processing capabilities of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Practical application of geospatial data management and analysis functions based on a selected geoscience project.
Objective
Students can - explain the basic principles of GIS - solve a complex, real-world GIS problem in the field of Earth Science - apply the principles of data modelling and geoprocessing with ArcGIS Pro: data design and modelling, data acquisition, data integration of different data types (including LiDAR data), spatial analysis of vector and raster data, special functions for digital terrain modelling and hydrology, map production and 3D visualisation.
Content
Theoretical introduction to the concepts, spatial data types and spatial data handling functions of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Application of data modeling principles and geoprocessing capabilities using ArcGIS Pro: data design and modeling, data acquisition and integration, spatial analysis of vector and raster data, particular functions for digital terrain modeling and hydrology, map generation and 3D-visualization.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Lecture Script: Introduction to Geographic Information Systems, Tutorial: Introduction to ArcGIS Pro. All lecture materials are provided digitally.
Literature
Longley P.A., Goodchild M.F., Maguire D.J., Rhind D.W. (2015): Geographic Information Systems and Science. Fourth Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Chichester, England. Burrough P.A., McDonnell R.A. and Lloyd C.D. (2015): Principles of Geographical Information Systems. Third edition. Oxford : Oxford University Press, England. Jones, C.B. (2013): Geographical Information Systems and Computer Cartography. Taylor & Francis eBooks Complete. Available Online ETHZ library.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , SHE , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 60
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Geographic Information Systems | No time listed | 4 h weekly |
Offered In
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Major: Geology and Geophysics (Advisors of the major in Geology and Geophysics are Dr. Vincenzo Picotti (Geology) and Dr. Andrea Zunino (Geophysics).)
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Methods (The following courses is strongly recommended within the module Methods for students interested in the "Space Systems" focus: - 401-0624-00L Mathematics IV: Statistics)
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Geography Teaching Diploma (More informations at : )
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