Earth sciences and geography have been heavily relying on spatial data that is obtained from various sources that include social media API's, smartphones, remotely sensed images, among others which are analyzed through geographical information systems (GIS). All the technologies that are used in supporting these applications are in the middle of geoinformatics. Geoinformatics can be vaguely regarded as the science that deals with the structure of spatial information and its application into various other streams.

In a field that is so extensive, one needs to stress enough emphasis on its research. Research in the field of geoinformatics can be utilized to support both the local and global environments, along with using it in security and energy programs. Owing to the technological advancements, geoinformatics can also be utilized in information technology, computer science, spatial analysis, reinforcement learning, architecture, biogeography, software engineering among various others.

What is Geographic Information System (GIS)?

GIS is nothing but a system in the computers that can be used for storing, capturing, displaying and checking various data that is related to various positions on the surface of Earth. Through this system, we can find out different types of data on a single map. Geographic Information System comprises of non-spatial and spatial data. While the spatial data gives you data about the features and position of the object, attribute data or non-spatial data gives you information about the properties. GIS is nothing but the combination and analysis of both these features.

Now that we know what GIS is, we shall look at what one can achieve with these explorations.

Every kind of discovery can be done through satellite data, which is predominantly obtained in the form of images. With the help of geoinformatics, one can process these images for precisely finding out the sites that can be explored. It is also a known fact that different materials respond differently to different wavelengths. By capturing the wavelength of the materials, we can find out the nature of the materials. For instance, we can find out about the quality of a material, say iron with the help of its wavelength. Having said all of this, one can clearly see that the scope for expansion is wide in the field of geoinformatics. Derived from the amalgamation of two fields - geology or geography and informatics, one must open their view to look at the possibilities that are available in this field. Geoinformatics comprises of subjects like GPS, cartography, climatology, remote sensing, hydrology, aerial photography among numerous others. Thanks to this extensiveness, organizations like DRDO, Ministry of Forest, ISRO, BCCL, SAIL, and many more look for individuals who possess the requisite skills in the aforementioned field.

It is a known fact that India is one of the fastest growing economies and its contribution in the field of Geoinformatics has been immense. While geoinformatics is a known field globally, it is still in its nascent stage in India. Developing this field in India are a handful of educational institutions. Symbiosis International University, Pune is the first educational entity to identify this aspect and initiate a change in the way it was perceived by the society. In 2004, Symbiosis Institute of Geoinformatics was set up with the aim of providing world-class education and state-of-the-art facilities to the students in the field of geoinformatics. The courses at SIG have focused on creating individuals who were competent in various fields that have an ever-growing demand across the globe like GIS development, Photogrammetric mapping, environmental impact, map analysis, watershed management, remote sensing among others. The programs offered at SIG are aimed at creating highly trained professionals who are equipped with all the requisite competencies. The programs like Msc in geoinformatics can help students pave a career roadmap for themselves, thanks to its extensive teaching. Over the years, SIG has identified the requirements of the geospatial industry and has managed to modify the coursework based on the same. Along with the coursework, students of SIG develop exemplary analytical decision-making skills, personality development, soft skills, among numerous other important qualities.

SIG also offers a Mtech in geoinformatics which aims at fulfilling the technical skills in an individual who is interested in the geoinformatics field. The institution also has an impeccable placement record of 100% since its inception in 2004.

Symbiosis Institutions have always been regarded as the best in aspects of academic training and industry interface. This was made plausible with the world-class faculty members in an environment that encourages innovation. All in all, one can be sure to get the best of education in the field of geoinformatics with its two signature courses - Msc in Geoinformatics and Mtech in Geoinformatics.