Remote Sensing | University of Lethbridge

Faculty of Arts & Science

Remote Sensing

Marvel at Earth’s mosaic

Are you fascinated by Google™ Earth? Are you always in-the-know about the leading edge of software and technology? Do you like thinking about the infinite breadth and depth of our environment, all the way to the outer edges of the universe?

ulethbridge.ca/future-student

Remote Sensing at ULethbridge

Remote sensing provides a new vantage point to marvel, monitor and measure our world. With the advent of Earth observation and satellite technology, we are now able to view the planet — and our impact upon it — in real-time digital imagery.

These images allow us to observe and quantify objects and patterns found in the earth, atmosphere, ocean and space. This fast-paced science powers the geospatial information revolution, providing the framework for new technologies like Google™ Earth and helping us to understand things like climate change better.

Remote sensing is used at a much smaller scale, producing non-invasive medical imagery such as X-rays, MRIs and scans. This technology has virtually transformed the study of the internal workings of complex organs like the brain.

As a remote sensing student, you will study geography, environmental science and physics, as well as other topics focused on the field. You will also learn to record and interpret images using highly-specialized instruments, some of which are unique to the BSc in remote sensing at the University of Lethbridge.

Our faculty members host an extensive suite of fully-equipped laboratories, with dedicated research and graduate student areas. These labs include the latest equipment and software, supporting a variety of earth and environmental science studies.

Student Clubs & Activities. You are encouraged to take part in a wide variety of activities hosted by the Departments of Geography & Environment or Physics & Astronomy, as well as social events hosted by student clubs.

Remote Sensing Degrees. The Departments of Geography & Environment and Physics & Astronomy offer a major in remote sensing for the 40-course Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree program.

Remote Sensing Courses. Course selections will depend on prerequisites and your specific interests, but may include:

• Weather & Climate

• Engineering Mechanics

• Waves, Optics & Sound

• Physics of Remote Sensing

• Geomorphology

• Geographical Data & Analysis

• Spatial Modelling

• Elementary Linear Algebra

• Calculus

• Atmospheric Analysis

• Earth Sciences

• Geographical Information Systems

• Computer Mapping

• Glacial Processes, Measurements & Models

• Quantum Mechanics

• Electricity & Magnetism

• Electromagnetic Interaction

• Data Structures & Algorithms

• Computer Graphics

• Statistical Inference

Minors. Adding a minor to your degree is a great way to explore academic interests beyond your major. A minor is a set of courses comprising a secondary focus of interest. It is generally not related to your major. A minor may be required or optional. Minors are not available in all programs.

Learn more at ulethbridge.ca/artsci/minors

Honours Thesis. If your GPA is high enough in your fourth year, you can opt to complete an undergraduate thesis course in remote sensing. This is an excellent opportunity for you to earn an “Honours Thesis” designation on your degree.

TECTERRA Bursaries. Two, $10,000 bursaries will go to full-time undergraduate students enrolled in remote sensing, computer science with GIS or geography. The awards will be given to students based on the number of credit hours they’ve completed and financial need. Learn more: ulethbridge.ca/artsci/geography/tecterra-bursaries

Learn more about remote sensing at ULethbridge, visit ulethbridge.ca/remotesensing

Our Faculty & Their Research

Faculty members are happy to involve undergraduates in their research projects, using state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. Our faculty members often collaborate with other departments, community members and employers on research projects, giving you the opportunity to get additional hands-on experience.

In addition to ongoing departmental research projects, you may have the opportunity to participate in field studies or gain employment experience with researchers at Natural Resources Canada, Environment Canada, the Canadian Space Agency and the Alberta Conservation Association, among others.

Current Research & Areas of Interest:

• Atmospheric Trace Gases

• Correction of Satellite Image Data

• Properties of the Earth’s Surfaces

• Remote Sensing Applications

• Hyperspectral Imaging

• Imaging Spectrometry

• Image Classification

• Texture Analysis

• Spectral Mixture Analysis

• Image Processing

• Analysis Methodologies

• Molecular Structures

• Laboratory & Field Analyses

• Instrumentation

• Sensor Radiometric Calibration

• Vegetation Modeling & Inversion

Your Future Prospects

Skills Acquired. In the program, you will develop a highly sought-after skill set. In addition to building exceptional communication skills, you will expand your critical and analytical problem-solving skills, research and information management skills and improve your attention to detail. You will leave the program with a strong ability to summarize research findings, excellent fieldwork and risk assessment techniques, as well as in-depth knowledge of environmental and social issues.

Related Fields. Employment in remote sensing has an exceptionally bright outlook. This is the only remote sensing program of its kind in Canada; therefore, graduates have unique qualifications for direct employment in private industry, government and universities, as well as for entry to advanced graduate-level studies. As a graduate in this emerging field, your skills will be in demand across a wide range of sectors — from corporate energy giants to specialized government departments.

Here are just a few of the options that may be open to you:

• Geospatial Technology Companies (Google, Microsoft)

• Survey Firms

• Mapping Companies

• Aerospace Engineering Firms

• Positioning & Navigation Businesses

• Building or Defence Contractors

• Petroleum & Energy Producers

• Mining Corporations

• Remote Sensing Companies

• Space Agencies

• Geographical Information Companies

• Computer Graphics Businesses

• Public Utilities

• Government Departments

Graduate Studies. The University of Lethbridge’s School of Graduate Studies offers graduate programs at the Master and Doctoral levels, spanning over 60 disciplines — so why not consider pursuing grad school right here in Lethbridge! Whether you choose to do your advanced studies at ULethbridge or another institution, know that your undergraduate degree has set you on the path to post-graduate success.

Professional Disciplines. Your undergraduate degree in remote sensing provides an excellent foundation for management, engineering and environmental law.

Marvel at Earth’s mosaic in Remote Sensing.

“I knew I wanted to pursue a program with a focus on math, science and technology. The fact that remote sensing is a new innovative program, a program not offered by all universities in Canada that lets me work in a state-of-the-art building, is amazing. I am excited to be involved in a program that trains me for a promising future, especially with the rapidly changing world around us, from climate change to technological advances.”

- Scott, Remote Sensing (Co-op)

Put Your Knowledge to Work

Whether you’re looking for a more in-depth learning experience by assisting with research projects or by testing your knowledge in a real-life setting, we can help. Combined with your required coursework, the opportunities outlined below will provide you with a solid foundation for further studies and an excellent framework for a challenging and rewarding career — whatever direction you decide to go.

Applied Studies

Earn course credit for career-related paid, volunteer or community service work experience. This program is specially designed to allow you to integrate principles learned in the classroom in a practical work setting.

For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/appliedstudies

Co-operative Education (Co-op)

ULethbridge is proud to offer you the chance to participate in co-op. Co-op allows you to gain work experience directly related to your studies and make invaluable contacts in the workforce, all while earning a competitive salary. Completion of the program allows you to receive a co-op designation on your degree and, most importantly, a kickstart to your career the minute you graduate.

For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/coop

Academic Advising

Participate in Research

In addition to your regular courses, you can contribute to departmental research activities. For example, you can complete an independent study course or gain employment as a research assistant. If your GPA is high enough, you can also enrol in undergraduate thesis-based courses where research is a component of your studies.

Contact your department to learn more!

Your decision to explore a university education is the first step toward a great future — now let us help you navigate your degree options at ULethbridge and set you on the road to success. Do you have questions about what field of study best suits you? Would you like help with program and registration planning and just can’t find the answers? If so, you should speak to an academic advisor today — advisors have the answers to these questions and many more.

To learn more about the support services available to you through our academic advisors, visit: ulethbridge.ca/artsci/advising