30 ECTS Minor SDS

The minor in Spatial Data Science (30 ECTS credits) consists of the following six compulsory modules of 5 ECTS credits each:

Compulsory modules (30 ECTS credits)

GEO 113 - Earth Perspectives – Introduction to Geographic Information Science and Remote Sensing

"Fernerkundung und Geographische Informationswissenschaft I"

• Fall Semester, 5 ECTS, Lecture with Practical Exercises

This module provides first insights into the far-reaching possibilities of remote sensing and geographic information science (GIScience). The physical and methodological foundations of remote sensing are illustrated through the study of some intriguing applications. The fascinating views of our world from different perspectives (ground- based, airborne and spaceborne) provide the underlying information for a comprehensive understanding of global processes. Within the field of geographic information science, the basic concepts, data models, methods and applications of geographical information systems are introduced. With its focus on the digital analysis of the world, GIScience provides many possibilities for geographic information extraction and spatial decision support. The synergistic introduction to both fields provides a comprehensive understanding for obtaining, analyzing and interpreting spatial data that play a central part in science and everyday life. The course includes the lecture component GEO 113.1, which introduces the underlying principles of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Science, and the exercise component GEO113.2, which conveys important methods and skills for spatial data analysis and digital image interpretation. The content of this module is further consolidated and expanded during the following spring semester (GEO123), as well as in the second year of study (GEO233, GEO243).

Link zum Vorlesungsverzeichnis

SDS 110 - Fundamentals of Spatial Data

"Grundlagen zur Arbeit mit digitalen räumlichen Daten I"

• Fall Semester, 5 ECTS, Lecture with Practical Exercises

This Spatial Data Science (SDS) module paves the way to one of the most dynamic and impactful areas of geoscience.  In an era where data drives decision making, Spatial Data Science offers a unique lens through which we can explore and understand the world around us. Whether it's monitoring environmental change, managing urban growth or, predicting natural disasters, Spatial Data Science provides the tools and insights needed to tackle the pressing challenges of our time. This module is designed to spark your curiosity and equip you with the skills you need to excel in the rapidly evolving field of Spatial Data Science. You'll delve into the fascinating world of geospatial applications and discover how spatial data is collected, analysed and applied to solve real-world problems. From understanding the nuances of data lifecycles to mastering the principles of data quality and reproducibility, you'll gain a comprehensive grounding in the essential elements of spatial data science. The content of this course is further consolidated and expanded in the following spring semester (SDS 210) and autumn semester (SDS 320).

The SDS 110 module starts in the fall semester 2025

SDS 123 - Introduction to Cartography and Geovisualisation

"Fernerkundung und GIS II"

• Spring Semester, 5 ECTS, Lecture with Practical Exercises

This module introduces basic terminology, concepts and principles related cartographic depiction and geovisualisation. The purpose and characteristics of the map as a model of visual communication of geographic phenomena and processes, the conversion of spatial information into a cartographic symbolic language, map interpretation, map projections, thematic cartography, and special forms of geovisualisation are covered. The labs complement the associated lectures using ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online. Labs focus on central elements of the creation of maps including for example the visual variables, color schemes, data classification, cartographic generalisation, design and execution of multicolour online maps and map evaluation. Students work individually, in groups, and independently under the guidance of teaching assistants.

Link zum Vorlesungsverzeichnis

SDS 210 - Programming with Spatial Data

"Grundlagen zur Arbeit mit digitalen räumlichen Daten II"

• Spring Semester, 5 ECTS, Lecture with Practical Exercises

This module introduces programming with Spatial Data. It dives into the world of Python programming tailored for geospatial applications. In an era of rapid technological advancement, the ability to write and organise code to analyse spatial data is an essential skill for tackling pressing challenges in the geosciences and beyond. This hands-on course introduces you to the powerful tools and techniques needed to programmatically manipulate, analyse and visualise spatial data. From mastering Python basics to using specialised geospatial libraries such as GeoPandas, RasterIO and Matplotlib, you'll develop practical programming skills to solve real-world problems. The course also emphasises the importance of well-structured, reusable and reproducible workflows, with a focus on working with Jupyter and Git. You'll complete the course by working on individual projects that demonstrate your ability to develop programming solutions to spatial problems, preparing you for advanced applications in research and industry. This course builds on the foundations of SDS 110 "Fundamentals of Spatial Data" and is further consolidated and extended in the fall semester (SDS 320).

The SDS 210 module starts in the spring semester 2025

GEO 243 - Spatial Analysis with GIS

"Fernerkundung und Geographische Informationswissenschaft IV"

• Spring Semester, 5 ECTS, Lecture with Practical Exercises

This module expands the bases of GEO 113 and GEO 123 regarding the knowledge of methods, operations, and applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The lecture portion (GEO243.1) introduces basic methods of spatial analysis and their implementation in GIS, which are tested in practice in the associated exercises portion (GEO243.2).

Link zum Vorlesungsverzeichnis

SDS 320 - Spatial Data Analytics

"Anwendungskompetenzen digitaler Datenanalysen"

• Fall Semester, 5 ECTS, Lecture with Practical Exercises

In this module students develop their own geoscientific project in which they will develop programmes based on existing or self-collected spatial data, carry out modelling and critically evaluate these tools and the results obtained. In addition to the practical work with digital tools, the collected data should be adequately documented and described (including quality analysis, metadata, etc.) in order to make it findable and reusable according to the FAIR principle and taking into account copyright and data protection. This course builds on the foundations of SDS 110 "Fundamentals of Spatial Data" and SDS 210 "Programming with Spatial Data".

The SDS 320 module starts in the fall semester 2026.