Geomatics Engineering Technology

Students learn how to write letters, memos, and routine email messages. They learn to write clear and concise sentences and paragraphs and to make documents easily accessible through headings, lists and white space. They learn how to avoid some common grammatical errors in their writing. They also learn to give an oral report based on library and online research on a new development in their technology. In addition, they learn how to prepare a resume and job application letter and fill out a job application form. Students also learn how to collaborate as part of a team to accomplish work related communication tasks.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

This course is an introduction to the basic principles of field surveying and surveying terminology. The principles and procedures for differential and trigonometric levelling will be covered for establishing elevations. The procedures for observing horizontal and vertical angles will be introduced with optical mechanical and electronic theodolites. Steel tape and electronic methods for distance measurements will be discussed. Note keeping formats will be covered throughout the course. Through lecture and analysis of measured data the types of error occurring in differential levelling, angular measurements with total stations and distance measurements with steel tapes and electronic methods will be introduced along with the adjustment of this data. The field labs will place an emphasis on requiring students to work effectively and safely together as a team and to handle all field equipment with the proper care required to ensure the safety of, not only the student, but also the equipment.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

This course lays the foundation for many courses in the Diploma and begins with a brief history of surveying and an introduction to both the Imperial and Metric units of measurement. A review of geometry and trigonometry as it applies to plane surveying problems will be covered. The sine law, cosine law and Pythagoras’ Theorem will be employed in survey applications. Azimuths and bearings will be defined and reductions from field observations will be introduced. The polar and rectangular coordinate systems will be defined and the conversion from one system to the other will be covered. Traverse calculations will be covered including the reduction of field data. The Compass Rule will be used for the adjustment of different types of closed traverses. Coordinate cross multiplication will be covered for determining the area of a polygon. Missing (omitted) part problems will be introduced to reinforce trigonometry used with triangles.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

This introductory drafting course is designed to introduce students to manual drafting, map reading, and basic Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) techniques. Manual printing techniques will be introduced in order to produce industry standard field notes. Utilizing map scales, as well as converting distances from one scale to another using tri-scales will be delivered through course notes and lab exercises. Map design and balance along with required plan components will be included. AutoCAD units related to survey operations as well as the creation of basic scaled CAD drawings will be carried out. The relationship between the AutoCAD drafting environment and scaled hardcopy plots on a variety of media sizes will be explored. Basic symbol libraries and drawing templates to demonstrate efficiency in CAD drawing production will be utilized.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

This course familiarizes the student with basic operations of file organization and management in a Microsoft Windows environment. Topics covered include BCIT network file structure, basic word processing and spreadsheet functions. Focus is on using Microsoft Excel to enter survey-related data, perform basic calculations, generate graphs and evaluate criteria and results using supplied datasets. Students will gain the background required to efficiently operate a PC and perform typical computations and solve routine survey problems.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

Technical mathematics with emphasis on its application to surveying: trigonometric functions of any angle, solution of triangles, identities and trigonometric equations; spherical trigonometry; systems of linear equations; analytic geometry.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

This course is designed to test the student's ability to apply the laws of physics to applications in Geomatics. Basic concepts in language and measurement will be dealt with in detail. Concepts in optics, and optical instruments such as telescopes, theodolites and lasers will be covered. A review of vectors, kinematics, kinetics, and work and energy will form a basis for second term work. The lab program stresses measurement, data analysis, experimental investigation of physical laws and technical report writing. Mathematical treatment requires only algebra and trigonometry.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

This introductory two part course is designed to acquaint Geomatics students with the fundamental concepts of Earth and Ocean Science, and will demonstrate the importance of these topics to their future practice of Geomatics. In the first half of the course, the focus will be on the Earth. Topics include the Earth (evolution, structure, gravity & magnetic fields), Forces within the Earth (tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes), the Atmosphere & Hydrosphere (composition, heat & temperature, climate & weather, earths water, world’s oceans), Sculpturing the Earth’s Surface (weathering, glaciers, resulting land-forms), Earth Materials (minerals, rocks), and the Biosphere (biomes of the world, forests of Canada with a focus on British Columbia). Wherever relevant, the central focus will be on British Columbia (e.g. earthquakes, climate & weather, rocks & minerals, land-forms). In the second half of the course, the focus will be on the Ocean Environment. Ocean Sciences is an interdisciplinary science, thus its study will involve learning how geology, physics, chemistry, biology, meteorology, and astronomy inter-connect in the Ocean Environment – the largest feature on our planet Earth. Topics will include the oceans and the processes that have shaped them, their composition and movement, waves, tides, beaches, as well as interactions with the atmosphere.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

Topics included in the lecture portion of GEOM 2010 are an introduction to astronomy, Global Positioning Systems (GPS) for survey applications, the importance of a code of ethics to the profession, industry specific health and safety guidelines and the necessary specific information for the corresponding weekly field lab session. The lab portion of the course will place an emphasis on keeping field notes both for recording data and supplementing electronic data. On-board and external device software routines will be used for survey data collection, resection, traversing and setting out. Practical field labs will also introduce students to both solar and star observations for azimuth determination. Several labs will involve a ‘field to finish’ format taking data from the field followed by manipulating, evaluating and analyzing the results to produce a final plan or summary.
Prerequisite(s):

• GEOM 1010 and GEOM 1020 and GEOM 2030^† (^† may be taken concurrently)

This course is a continuation of GEOM 1020 and will introduce Geomatics students to more complex and varied survey computation techniques. Lectures will focus on the theoretical principles and procedures for computation while lab assignments are designed to show the practical approach of computations in industry applications. The course will introduce control survey calculations using intersection and resection methods and the linear transformation of local to global rectangular coordinate systems. The geometry of simple circular curves and the computation of curve layout data together with the theory and practical application of calculations for symmetrical parabolic vertical curves will be presented. Area calculations using a variety of methods will be discussed to enable the subdivision of land parcels to meet specific design requirements. Road cross-sectional areas and volume calculations for typical earthwork applications will be presented.
Prerequisite(s):

• GEOM 1020

This course is focused on developing student's skills in an integrated coordinate geometry and drafting environment with an emphasis on MicroSurvey software. When possible, field data from the concurrent Field Survey Course will be used as examples. Students will become familiar with electronic data uploading and downloading and data processing. Traverse data entry and adjustment, importing and exporting routines, creation of drawing templates, Land Title drafting standards and the creation of symbols will be introduced. Through lecture and lab assignments the processes required to create basic legal survey plans, undertake subdivision and area calculations, fit house layouts to lots with setback requirements will be taught. An introduction to the 3-D capabilities of MicroSurvey will also be presented, including surface modelling and contour generation.
Prerequisite(s):

• GEOM 1030

This course will provide foundation knowledge that will be used in subsequent Geomatics courses at BCIT. Coordinate Geometry (COGO) software will be used to solve typical survey calculation problems such as intersections, traverse and coordinate calculations. Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) tools in Microsoft Excel will be used to solve survey geometry problems and compute horizontal and vertical curve layout data. GPS data will be converted from Latitude and Longitude format to Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinates using VBA tools. An introduction to Matlab will be given to enable students to solve common survey problems. Conditional tests and loop calculations will be used to solve specific survey calculation problems. This course will also provide an introduction to Geographical Information System (GIS) concepts and terminology including spatial data models, databases, query, analysis, data input and editing. Students will learn to use commercial GIS software using hands-on exercises.
Prerequisite(s):

• GEOM 1020 and GEOM 1040
• GEOM 2010^‡ and GEOM 2020^‡ (^‡ must be taken concurrently)

Differentiation rules for algebraic, trigonometric, inverse trigonometric, logarithmic and exponential functions; related rates, differentials and approximations used in surveying, radius of curvature; selected integration, arc length, the spiral curve; Taylor and Maclaurin series; 3D analytic geometry, partial differentiation with applications in geomatics.
Prerequisite(s):

• MATH 1511

This course will extend the student's ability to apply the concepts of physics to Geomatics Technology. Concepts in simple machines, road banking, gyroscopes, waves and their relationship to distance measurement, hydrographic survey, basic electronics and magnetism, and electronic distance measurement will be covered. The lab program will extend first term work and enforce the lecture material.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in PHYS 1151

This course builds on the foundation from the first year and emphasizes the use of a variety of total stations with a range of industry standard data collection systems. Topics will include the collection and analysis of the measurements and procedures to minimize field and computational errors, analysis of electronic field data, presentation of results, in graphic and non-graphic forms. Measurements using industry grade Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment for Rapid Static and Real Time methods will be introduced. Labs will be based on industry type problems which will include a design or planning component, a field measurement/data acquisition component, and a processing/computation/drafting component.
Prerequisite(s):

• GEOM 2010 and GEOM 3030 (GEOM 3030 may be taken concurrently, as a co-requisite)

This course is a continuation of GEOM 2020 and the final Survey Computations course for the Geomatics Engineering Technology Diploma Program. Where possible lab assignments and problems will be aligned with the Field Surveying and Surveying CAD courses. The course starts with a review of error types, sources of errors and the propagation of random errors in different types of surveying measurements. A review of horizontal circular curve geometry and calculations will be presented and then further expanded to include compound and reverse curve applications. The geometry and computation methods used for spiral curves will be covered together with their use in the computation of terminal curves for legal Right-of-Way applications. Finally a review of symmetrical vertical curves and the geometry and computation methods used for non-symmetrical vertical curves and their applications in highway design and construction will be discussed.
Prerequisite(s):

• GEOM 2020

Building on material learned in Surveying CAD 1 and CAD 2 (presented in year 1), this course introduces an object based CAD drawing environment with an emphasis on AutoCAD Civil 3D software. Topics include; creating and labelling objects, point and label styles, importing field data, survey database, adjusting traverse data, analyzing control network data to detect and remove blunders, creation and editing of surfaces, horizontal and vertical alignments, design templates (assemblies), and parcels. Through practical labs the student will gain a solid background in designing simple roads, preparing accurate terrain models, and produce earthwork volumes and reports.
Prerequisite(s):

• GEOM 2030

This course covers three aspects of geodesy including geometrical geodesy, physical geodesy, and satellite geodesy. Topics will include the fundamentals of geodesy, the shape and size of the Earth and their impact on the standard surveying field procedures and computations. Also includes physical and mathematical modelling of the real Earth, ellipsoid of revolution and ellipsoidal geometry, problem and definitions of horizontal and vertical datums, deflection of vertical, convergence of meridians, height systems, various coordinate systems and their transformations, and map projection systems. It concludes with introduction to satellite geodesy and the necessary concepts related to use of survey grade Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers to conduct different modes of positioning and data processing. It also reviews the errors and biases involved in GNSS surveys and how to cancel and/or mitigate them in different GNSS applications. Precise point positioning, baseline, and network processing using both collected and freely available GNSS data from reference station networks in North America are also discussed.
Prerequisite(s):

• MATH 2511

Introduction to high-precision engineering surveys and properties; safety issues; need for survey equipment calibration and testing; vertical control surveys; basic survey equipment errors and their adjustment; application of optical and electromagnetic measuring principles and techniques; curve ranging; introduction to mining surveying, which includes mining terminology, some underground surveying techniques (control transfer, azimuth determination with gyro equipment, traversing and leveling) and volume determinations; and the case studies of some modern engineering surveying projects, including slope wall stability monitoring projects.
Prerequisite(s):

• MATH 2511 and Co-requisites MATH 3512 and GEOM 3010 and GEOM 3020

Photogrammetry 1 is an introductory course to the art and science of photogrammetry. Students will be introduced to the mathematics and concepts behind both stereo and non-stereo photogrammetry. Mathematical concepts such as collinearity, coplanarity, the geometry of the stereo model, and orientations will be demonstrated. The application of UAS (drones) to capture aerial photos for the mapping, surveying, forestry, archeology, construction, engineering, forensics, law enforcement, and the animation industry will be explained. Students will explore image interpretation techniques, orthophotos, data capture, Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), flight planning, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) technology and terrestrial photogrammetry.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

This course lays the mathematical foundations for Adjustments of Survey Calculation (GEOM 4090) course covering the topic areas of matrix algebra and statistics. The first section of the course covers operations of matrices, solving of linear systems of equations and calculating eigenvalues and eigenvectors with application to error ellipses. The second section covers both descriptive and inferential statistics. Particular attention is paid to least squares and variance-covariance matrices and their application to measurement adjustment in Geomatics.
Prerequisite(s):

• MATH 2511

This course builds on the communication competences learned in COMM 1135. Students will learn how to write routine correspondence, tailored to a technical audience, and used for various purposes. Furthermore, students will develop a job application package that includes a resume, cover letter, and professional online profile. To supplement this package, students will practice their interview skills for a job in their field. Additionally, students will work in teams to plan, develop, write, and deliver a formal report. Students will base the report on field data, literature, and methods chosen from library, online, and self-collected sources. This process includes critically evaluating the data and information, citing sources appropriately, and presenting it effectively in both a written report and an oral presentation.
Prerequisite(s):

• COMM 1135 and Co-requisite for GEOM 4010

This is the final Field Surveying course for the diploma and brings together all of the field survey components taught during the two years of study at BCIT. This course will focus on the use of electronic total stations, data collectors, digital levels and GPS survey grade equipment using on-board data collection methods, data processing, adjustment and presentation using dedicated survey and CAD software. Throughout the course students will work on both individual and group based projects. In the second half of the course, students will work in groups of 3 or 4 over a period of 4 to 5 weeks to concentrate on their chosen field capstone project. Projects will incorporate topographic measurements, control survey, highway design, subdivision and volumetric calculations incorporating the practical methods taught during the diploma. Emphasis will be placed on planning and executing surveys using best practices and procedures applied in industry. Student groups will be responsible for planning, researching, managing and delivering their capstone project in accordance with the designated specifications. The report should describe the work completed, present the results with related calculations and drawings together with a critical appraisal of the overall process.
Prerequisite(s):

• GEOM 3010 and Co-requisite COMM 2453

This course covers two distinct aspects of remote sensing technologies. It explores both passive imagery based sensors operated from satellite platforms during data acquisition as well as active laser based scanning sensors (LiDAR) that are operated from either aerial/mobile or terrestrial platforms. The imagery based part of the course covers the fundamentals of remote sensing including the technology, data collection, processing and interpretation of space-borne remotely sensed imagery. Students are introduced to the theory, processes and techniques related to the capture and analysis of passive remote sensing data. The laser scanning aspect of the course presents a hands-on introduction to various point cloud technologies. Industry standard software packages employed by the Geomatics sector are utilised to model and edit examples of complex point cloud datasets used in high definition surveying. Emphasis is placed on the data collected as part of the measurement process, as well as the management and manipulation of the resulting point clouds.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

This course is focused on developing the student’s understanding of Cadastral Surveying and Land Use Planning issues that affect the Land Surveying profession. The basic concepts cadastral surveying including Canadian governance and the legal system is introduced so that students gain an appreciation for the laws and rules under which Land Surveyors must practice. The effect of legislation, court decisions and bylaws are illustrated. The history of survey systems and practice is covered to provide an understanding of how historical records influence the modern day cadastral fabric and land title systems. Students will be introduced to planning issues including: legislation; long term planning as associated with official community plans and community visions; land use choices, site analysis; development potential, and the intensity of land use; environmental issues; public involvement; the planning process and costing
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

This applied course builds on the foundations of GEOM 3070 – Photogrammetry 1 and introduces the student to the practical and hands-on approach to photogrammetry. Students will analyze, compare and contrast photogrammetric data gathered using different sensors; perform, evaluate and interpret data capture; and create a wide variety of air-photo derived products including digital elevation models, orthophotos, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) analysis and 3D visualizations. Focus is on giving the student ample time to become familiar and competent with a digital softcopy stereo workstation in order to be able to select and justify the correct approach to data acquisition, digitizing, product assessment and delivery.
Prerequisite(s):

• GEOM 3070

This course consists of two components: Coordinate Systems for Geomatics and Mathematical Cartography for Geomatics. The Coordinate systems component includes topics on Time reference systems, Terrestrial reference systems and reference frames (such as International Terrestrial Reference Systems and Frames, Canadian Spatial Reference Systems, Canadian vertical datum, etc.), Celestial reference systems, including Equatorial, Horizon, Ecliptic and International Celestial Reference, systems; and Orbital coordinate system. The Map Projections component treats the concepts and properties of map projections; Classifications of map projections; Theory of distortions (Conformality, Equivalency, Equidistancy, Tissot's indicatrix); Cylindrical projections (including Mercator, Transverse Mercator (TM), Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM), Local Transverse Mercator (LTM)); Conic projections; Azimuthal projections; Stereographic projection (including the stereographic double projection used in the Maritimes).
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in GEOM 3050 and 50% in MATH 2511

The emphasis of this course is on the practical applications of adjustment computations. It covers the theory of observational errors, measures of precision and accuracy; propagation law of errors; weights and propagation of weights; confidence region estimation and statistical hypothesis testing; principle of adjustment by traditional methods (Transit, Compass, Crandall’s rules); concepts of least squares adjustment; adjustment of parametric models with constraint equations, pre- and post-adjustment tests to detect blunders, which includes, but not limited to, using computer programming languages/commercial software packages to design 1D, 2D, and 3D survey networks, and analyze curve-fitting and coordinate transformation problems.
Prerequisite(s):

• MATH 3512 and GEOM 3010