Certificate course in
Remote Sensing and GIS for Earth Resources Exploration
| Certification | Location | Start | Duration | EC | Tuition fee | Registration deadline | NFP registration deadline | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate | Netherlands | 07 Jan 2013 | 4 months | 30 | EUR 3500 | 15 Nov 2012 | 01 May 2012 | Register |
In this 18-week course, participants are trained in the use of remote sensing and GIS techniques for geological and mineral exploration. Sustainable development of a country's mineral resources is generally seen as a key factor in economic growth. The search for mineral resources relies on the availability of up-to-date geological knowledge bases, conceptual mineral deposit models and modern exploration technologies. In this course, an integrated approach is followed for upgrading geological maps, in which published geological maps are re-interpreted in a GIS environment on the basis of aerial photographs, satellite imagery and airborne geophysical data. Subsequently, exploration data and deposit concepts are brought together for integration and analysis using GIS and modelling systems to assess mineral resources potential. The main subjects in this course are mineral deposit geology, geological remote sensing, exploration geochemistry, airborne geophysics, hyperspectral remote sensing and mineral prospectivity modelling.
For whom is the course relevant?
The course is designed for university graduates (BSc required) in earth sciences with an interest in applying remote sensing and GIS techniques to geological and mineral exploration. Participants must have a basic understanding of remote sensing and GIS techniques.
What will be achieved?
At the end of the course, participants will be able to apply remote sensing and GIS to map geological features, to upgrade existing geological knowledge bases, and to assess the mineral potential of particular areas. Though this involves the use of software in a digital environment, the focus of the course is on concepts and strategies rather than on specific software tools.
What is the course content?
The content is organized around two topics: geological exploration and mineral exploration. The following subjects will be taught in lectures and hands-on exercises, as well as through integrated project work on geological and mineral exploration:
- airborne geophysics
- geological remote sensing
- integrated image interpretation
- geological mapping methodology
- mineral deposit geology
- exploration geochemistry
- hyperspectral remote sensing
- prospectivity modelling.
Why choose this course?
The strong link between education and the research activities at ITC guarantees a modern course that covers state-of-the-art methods and technologies for earth resources exploration. Examples include integrated image analysis for geological mapping, mineral mapping using hyperspectral remote sensing, and quantitative modelling of mineral prospectivity. Participants come from a wide range of countries and the teaching staff have ample experience in international education and projects.
Admission requirements
Academic level and background
Applicants for the Certificate programme should have a Bachelor degree or equivalent from a recognised university in a discipline related to the course, preferably combined with working experience in a relevant field.
Some courses in the Certificate programme or separate modules require knowledge of, and skills in, working with GIS and/or digital image processing of remotely sensed data.
Skills in taught or related subjects are a prerequisite for some courses in the Certificate programme or separate modules. Even if the applicant satisfies the overall admission requirements, acceptance is not automatic.
English language
As all courses are given in English, proficiency in the English language is a prerequisite. If you are a national of one of the countries in this list (PDF), you are exempted from an English language test. Please note: the requirements when applying for fellowships may vary according to the regulations of the fellowship provider.
English language tests: minimum requirements
Only internationally recognised test results are accepted.
| TOEFL Paper-based Test (PBT) | 550 |
| TOEFL Internet-based Test | 79-80 |
| British Council / IELTS | 6.0 |
| Cambridge | CPE/CAE |
Computer skills
Applicants lacking computer experience are strongly advised to follow basic courses in their home countries.