MSc Environmental Remote Sensing and Geospatial Sciences at University of Stirling

Programme overview

MSc Environmental Remote Sensing and Geospatial Sciences trains students to use remote sensing to study Earth and other planets, covering satellites, drones, ground-based platforms, GIS, data analysis and modelling, with a focus on optical and passive remote sensing.

Duration: MSc full-time: 12 months; part-time: 24 months | Intake: September 2027 | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Semester 1 builds core theory, field and data analytics skills with environmental processes; semester 2 covers advanced optical and passive remote sensing applications, a specialist GIS module, Python, and an optional linear-modelling module in R. An optional six-day residential field module takes place in the Cairngorms National Park, and the course ends with a dissertation.

Career pathways

Graduates are prepared for environmental, heritage and resource management (agriculture, fisheries, energy, insurance, waste crime) and the fast-growing downstream space sector.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Minimum second class honours degree or equivalent in a numerate subject such as geosciences, geography, environmental sciences, physics, engineering or mathematics; applicants without these qualifications but with significant appropriate work may also be considered. English language (international applicants): IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each sub-skill. Pearson Test of English (Academic) 60 overall with a minimum of 59 in each sub-skill. TOEFL exams taken before 21 January 2026: 80 overall with 18 in reading, 17 in writing, 17 in listening, 20 in speaking. TOEFL exams taken from 21 January 2026: 4 overall with no less than 4 in any band.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,750 a year (2026/27). Students from the UK and Republic of Ireland; part time rate Source

International applicants: GBP 12,150 a year (2026/27). International (including EU) students; part time rate Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: MSc full-time: 12 months; part-time: 24 months

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