Introduction to Surveying and Geomatics GEOM 1000

Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate foundational knowledge of the core disciplines within surveying and geomatics, including traditional and emerging technologies such as photogrammetry, LiDAR, hydrography, GNSS, GIS, and cadastral systems.
• Apply basic surveying techniques and geospatial data collection methods using industry-standard equipment and tools in both field and desktop environments.
• Interpret, analyze, and communicate spatial data through maps, models, and technical documentation relevant to civil, construction, and land development projects.
• Recognize the legal, technical, and ethical considerations associated with land measurement, boundary definition, and the use of geospatial technologies in professional practice.

Module 1: Surveying

• Explain fundamental surveying concepts, terminology, and measurement principles.
• Demonstrate the use of basic surveying equipment such as total stations, and levels.
• Perform simple field surveys including distance, angle, and elevation measurements.
• Record and interpret field notes and calculate results for basic survey tasks.

Module 2: Photogrammetry

• Describe how photographs can be used to measure and map features on the Earth's surface.
• Identify key components of aerial and terrestrial photogrammetric systems.
• Interpret photogrammetric outputs such as orthophotos, 3D models, and contour maps.
• Recognize limitations and best practices in photogrammetric data collection and processing.

Module 3: HDS / LiDAR

• Explain the principles of laser scanning and how LiDAR technology captures high-density spatial data.
• Identify types of LiDAR systems (terrestrial, mobile, airborne) and their applications.
• Understand point cloud data and its use in modeling and analysis.
• Discuss advantages and challenges of using LiDAR in surveying and construction projects.

Module 4: Hydrography

• Define hydrographic surveying and describe its role in mapping underwater environments.
• Identify equipment used in hydrographic data collection (e.g., echo sounders, sonar systems).
• Understand the principles of depth measurement, tide correction, and bathymetric mapping.
• Interpret hydrographic survey data for navigation, engineering, and environmental applications.

Module 5: Geodesy / GNSS

• Describe the shape and size of the Earth and how geodesy provides spatial reference frameworks.
• Explain the principles behind GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems), including GPS.
• Use GNSS equipment for basic positioning and data collection tasks.
• Understand coordinate systems, datums, and transformations relevant to surveying.

Module 6: Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

• Define GIS and describe its components: hardware, software, data, people, and methods.
• Use GIS software to view, query, and analyze spatial data.
• Understand the difference between raster and vector data formats.
• Apply GIS to visualize and interpret spatial relationships in support of construction and land planning.

Module 7: Cadastral Surveying

• Explain the legal principles and historical context of cadastral surveying.
• Understand how land boundaries are established, documented, and legally recognized.
• Interpret land titles, plans, and cadastral maps.
• Recognize the surveyor's role in resolving boundary disputes and ensuring legal compliance.​

Effective as of Fall 2025