How to become a geospatial technician
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- a graduate training scheme
- the armed forces
University
You could do a degree in:
- geography
- surveying and mapping
- geographic information science
- Earth sciences
- computer science
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 3 A levels, or equivalent, including at least 1 science
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College
You can take a college course to learn some of the skills needed for the job, which may help when applying for a trainee position. Relevant courses include:
- Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Surveying
- Level 3 Diploma in Civil Engineering for Technicians
- T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level
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Apprenticeship
You can work towards this role through a geospatial survey technician advanced apprenticeship or a geospatial mapping and science specialist degree apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
To get onto an apprenticeship, you'll find it useful to have:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Other Routes
You can apply for a graduate training scheme with a geospatial data company if you have a degree.
You can also work towards this role through the armed forces. The Royal Air Force and the British army offer training to become an air cartographer and geographic technician.
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Career tips
Many geospatial technicians use specialist software. You could build up your skills and knowledge through free online learning resources.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Association for Geographic Information for professional development and training opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about careers and training in geographical information systems from: