The discipline that specializes in the integration, collection, storage, processing, delivery, representation, analysis, and modeling of spatially-referenced data is called geomatics. Managing geographic information requires certain techniques and tools, which also fall under the field of geomatics. Information acquired in this field is used in the description of natural land processes and features as well as and man-made objects. In Alberta Geomatics has other names such as geospatial technology, geomatic engineering, and geomatics engineering.

The number of years the discipline has existed are many although the term itself has not been around for so long. The term has continued to become popular after its coining in 1969 by Arun and Anand. Combing the terms geodesy and geoinformatics was the main intention it was coined. Instruments and methods used in remote sensing, global navigation, land surveying, cartography, geography, geographic information systems, photogrammetry, and satellite systems are also used in this discipline.

The first usage of the term was in Canada and since its coining, it has been adopted by many internationally recognized bodies. Some among the bodies that use include Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and ISO. However, there are still other organizations in the United States that still prefer using the phrase geospatial technology instead of geomatic engineering. Most academic institutions that previously had departments titled surveying, survey engineering, survey science have since continued to re-title to geomatic engineering.

There are many other fields that contributed to the fast growth of geomatic engineering during the 90s. Software engineering, computer hardware, remote sensing technologies, and computer science are among the disciplines that continue to contribute to its fast growth. Geomatic engineers is the name used to refer to specialists in this field. Other countries call them professional surveyors or mappers.

The job description of engineers in this field involves designing, developing, and operating systems that are used to collect and analyze spatial data concerning natural resources, land, man made features, and oceans. They also do other tasks that have close relationship to civil engineering such as designing and laying out urban subdivisions and public infrastructure. They also map construction projects as well as perform control surveys.

Expert engineers in the field of geomatics engineering have years of experience and training. To become one, it is mandatory to have a bachelor in engineering as the first qualification for entry. In Alberta, one needs about 4 years to earn the degree. Gaining admission into a university to study the course requires one to forward standardized test scores and high school diplomas among other qualifications.

This degree can be taken from any of the many institutions that offer it. One can down application forms from institutional websites. College coursework can be involving and students with background knowledge in geography and math are in a better position. The curriculum requires students to have knowledge of producing maps from measurements taken on the ground. Mapping skills are very fundamental to Geomatic engineering. This field also applies mathematical formulas and concepts a lot.

Students are supposed to attend internship as part of the curriculum in some institutions while in others, it is not mandatory. To be in a safe position, one should acquire some practical knowledge because it can be important when applying for a job. A three-year degree in Geometic is needed together with the engineering degree.

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