Geodesy and Geomatics Engineering receives top marks with Cat-A designation
Author: UNB Newsroom
Posted on Oct 24, 2022
Category: UNB Fredericton
The next generation of great ocean surveyors should chart a course to New Brunswick as their next port of call. That is because the department of Geodesy and Geomatics Engineering (GGE) at the University of New Brunswick (UNB) recently received the designation as a “Category-A” for its bachelor of science in engineering program. The highest recognition from certifying bodies for GGE education programs makes UNB a top destination for students, faculty and industry partners.
“This new recognition builds on a long history of excellence in GGE ocean mapping training at UNB,” said Dr. Ian Church, associate professor. “It provides our graduating students with a credential that recognizes them as leaders in this field not just in Canada but worldwide.”
Only three universities in North America have Cat-A recognition, and UNB offers the shortest pathway for students to become a certified hydrographer in Canada through a bachelor of science in engineeering degree. The designation is handed down jointly by the International Hydrographic Organization, the International Federation of Surveyors and the International Cartographic Association.
Students graduating from the accredited Cat-A program will complete four technical electives and two experiential learning courses in oceanography, marine geology and geophysics, hydrography and ocean mapping to fulfill the educational requirements of becoming a Cat-A certified hydrographer.
As a leader in ocean mapping education, UNB can place students with industry-leading employers such as Teledyne Geospatial, QPS (Maritime Software Solutions), the Canadian Hydrographic Service and others. Students are given access to exciting experiential learning opportunities, including mapping the Arctic seabed on an icebreaker or working on a research vessel in Hawaii.
With a 100 per cent employment rate for graduates, this additional Cat-A recognition of the GGE department’s academic programming expands the vast opportunities for students.
To learn more, see Geodesy and Geomatics Engineering and consider applying.
Media contact: Dani Godbout talktous@unb.ca.