Geomatics: Training, information, overview of providers

The apprenticeship to become a Federal VET Diploma geomatics technician takes place in the form of block courses at a vocational school for the construction industry and, depending on the chosen specialization, in various training companies. For example, practical training with a focus on cartography can be completed at the Federal Statistical Office in Neuchâtel or at the Federal Office of Topography swisstopo in Wabern. With a focus on geoinformatics or cadastral surveying, geomatics trainees have somewhat more extensive options for practical training, namely in surveying offices, electricity, gas and water works and engineering offices.

The lectures and courses of the Bachelor's degree program in Geomatics do not take place exclusively after work, so it is possible to continue working full-time or on a slightly reduced schedule. The course is designed as a full-time course, but can also be taken part-time in the first four semesters with a reduced module workload per semester, although this extends the study time accordingly. However, the days and times of day that are free due to part-time study vary from student to student and should be clarified with the Director of Studies. However, the final year of study cannot be completed part-time, as the block courses are compulsory for all prospective geomatics students.

The Geomatics Bachelor's degree program consists of compulsory modules as well as compulsory elective modules and elective profiles. In the fifth and sixth semesters, you can choose two elective profiles to focus on. You can currently choose between: Geodesy / Engineering Geodesy; Geoinformatics and GIS-Environmental Planning (GUP). In the sixth and final semester, you will write a Bachelor's thesis worth 12 ECTS, for which you will have eight weeks.

The standard period of study for a Bachelor's degree in Geomatics is three years for full-time students; the duration is extended accordingly for part-time or part-time students.

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In addition to a Bachelor's degree in Geomatics, there is also the option here in Switzerland to train as a geomatics technician in an apprenticeship with a Federal Diploma of Vocational Education and Training (VET Diploma). This four-year apprenticeship can be completed with a focus on official surveying, cartography or geoinformatics.

In a Bachelor's degree program in Geomatics at a University of Applied Sciences, students are confronted with the following topics:

• Geodetic measurement technology (tachymetry, laser scanning, photogrammetry)
• Geomatics and computer science (GIS, geodata modeling, programming, geodata analysis)
• Geovisualization: 2D/3D maps, display and visualization methods
• Scientific basis: mathematics, computer science, physics, legal/ethical aspects
• Specializations in:
  • GeoDesign & Planning
  • GeoInformatics & Spatial Analysis
  • GeoBIM & Infrastructure
  • Geosensors & monitoring
• Practical & project lessons: e.g. large-scale surveying, sensor technology projects in nature or infrastructure, etc.

Good to know: The training content can vary from school to school. For detailed information on a specific course, it is worth contacting the respective provider directly. Our contact form will help you to quickly get in touch with the desired school or contact person.