Maps and Coordinate Systems

Course aim

To introduce student to the basic principles and techniques of graphical communication through map making and fundamentals of map design.
To provide an understanding of map projections, coordinate systems and datums as used in mapping, surveying and spatial information systems.

Course content

Introduction to maps, coordinate systems, reference surfaces, datums and map projections.
Principles of cartography and graphical communication. Types of maps – map design and scale distortion in maps.
Principles of map projections. Typical surveying and mapping projections. Map datums including AGD, GDA, WGS and transformations between coordinate systems and datums. Ellipsoidal and Australian Map Grid computations.

Textbook(s)

Nil

Prerequisite(s)

Geospatial Data Acquisition and Analysis GEOE 2026

Corequisite(s)

Nil

Teaching method

Component	Duration
INTERNAL, CITY EAST
Lecture	2 hours x 12 weeks
Practical	2 hours x 12 weeks
INTERNAL, MAWSON LAKES
Lecture	2 hours x 12 weeks
Practical	2 hours x 12 weeks

Note: These components may or may not be scheduled in every study period. Please refer to the timetable for further details.

Assessment

Presentation, Project proposal, Report

Fees

EFTSL*: 0.125
Commonwealth Supported program (Band 2)
To determine the fee for this course as part of a Commonwealth Supported program, go to:
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Fee-paying program for domestic and international students
International students and students undertaking this course as part of a postgraduate fee paying program must refer to the relevant program home page to determine the cost for undertaking this course.

Non-award enrolment
Non-award tuition fees are set by the university. To determine the cost of this course, go to:
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Not all courses are available on all of the above bases, and students must check to ensure that they are permitted to enrol in a particular course.

* Equivalent Full Time Study Load. Please note: all EFTSL values are published and calculated at ten decimal places. Values are displayed to three decimal places for ease of interpretation.