Tackle complex challenges like disasters, climate adaptation and urban growth using spatial data.
Natural disasters, poverty, food shortage, epidemics, climate change; the greatest challenges society is facing today are characterised by enormous complexity. These so-called wicked problems are impossible to solve in a way that is simple or final. The world needs socially committed engineers who won’t shy away from these complex challenges but feel the urge to contribute to solutions that will make societies around the world more sustainable and resilient. Are you eager to address these multifaceted challenges, using an in-depth understanding of spatial information science? If so, the Master’s in Spatial Systems & Society at the University of Twente (UT) is the right choice for you.
In this Master’s, you will learn to address large-scale and complex societal challenges by combining both technical and socio-economic knowledge with a strong basis of spatial data analysis and modelling. You will become skilled in mapping the conflicting needs of different stakeholders within complex societal, political, economic and cultural contexts. The key is to structure and redefine problems beyond the obvious frames and design solutions based on a multidisciplinary understanding of wicked problems.
Making sense of our world using spatial data
Spatial data is essential when it comes to identifying, understanding and defying wicked problems, especially because of the large scale on which these problems occur. You could use remote sensing to monitor deforestation in areas such as the Amazon or melting sea ice around the North Pole. Or you could map out the impact of natural disasters such as tsunamis or earthquakes, by consulting Volunteered Geographic Information (VGI). This is spatial data provided by citizens through geo-referenced data, shared via e.g. Instagram. Within this Master’s, you will get familiar with these and many more spatial analysis and modelling techniques.
Career perspectives
With the increasing availability of spatial data and innovations in technologies, the demand for spatial engineers continues to grow extensively. As a graduate of the Master’s in Spatial Systems & Society, your job opportunities are nearly endless. You could work for a broad range of (international) organisations, varying from large NGO’s to governments and from consultancy agencies to research institutes.
Whether you will take on the role of a spatial engineer, a project manager, a consultant, or a researcher, you will be able to work on large-scale projects in international, multicultural and interdisciplinary teams. You could get involved in the field of water management, infrastructure and planning, the development of renewable energy, environmental remote sensing, agriculture and nature conservation, socio-spatial inequality, meteorology, or architecture, to name just a few of the numerous exciting career paths you might follow after graduation. You could, of course, also obtain a PhD after completing your Master’s. Or you might even start up your own company!