Introduction to Geographical Information Systems (GIS)

Develop a strong foundation in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and their application in spatial analysis. This course focuses on key concepts, including how geographical information is defined, measured, and represented in the context of offshore wind development.
Through hands-on exercises, you’ll build practical skills in using GIS tools for mapping, data structuring, and spatial analysis—preparing you to apply GIS in real-world environmental, engineering, and planning contexts.

This module will cover:

The role of Geographical Information (GI) in society.
The nature and construction of GI.
Measurement of location.
Principles and techniques of spatial data modelling.
Field-based and object-based conceptualisations of space, and their expression as spatial data structures.
Concepts of spatial and non-spatial data retrieval, manipulation and analysis.
Hands-on training in GIS will be provided in the laboratory sessions.

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

Critically assess how GI may be structured, organised and used in GIS.
Demonstrate skills and practical experience in the use of one or more commercial GIS products.
Explain the key skills and practical abilities needed to effectively use of one or more commercial GIS products.

This module runs for 12 weeks, with lectures taking place on Monday mornings from 9.15am – 11.50am. All lectures are recorded so students can attend in person, live online or review recorded content in their own time.

Students will undergo continuous assessment as part of this course.

Skillnet Course Fee: €500

Full Course Fee: €900

Eligibility for the subsidised Skillnet Course Fee is based on the following factors:

Trainees

Key requirements regarding the trainee:

Trainees must be based in the Republic of Ireland to be eligible.
Trainees must be employed within private enterprise/self-employed.
This program is designed for professionals working in a related sector, seeking to upskill and transition into the offshore wind industry.

Companies

Key requirements regarding the eligibility of businesses to participate in funding:

Companies must be from private enterprise based in the Republic of Ireland.
Skillnet Ireland funding is not available to public sector bodies or organisations that are publicly funded such as community-based not-for-profit companies or charities.
Commercial semi-state companies are eligible providing that income contributed to a Network is not sourced from the public purse.
Sole traders are eligible as Companies.

If you are not eligible for funding the course fee is €900. Where a trainee enrols on a course and pays the full fee, no refund will be provided if eligibility is determined later.

If you have further queries on funding, please contact training@skillnetoffshorewindacademy.ie including the module you wish to apply for.

A primary degree (180 credits or equivalent), in a cognate area, as detailed in 1 above, plus at least 2 years’ experience in a relevant maritime industry (applied) as approved by the module coordinator on a case by case basis under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Applications will also be considered from graduates in other disciplines, including those in the Arts or Social Sciences, who have a demonstrable interest and/or experience in coastal and marine management, and who can offer sufficient numerical abilities.

Professionals working in a related sector, seeking to upskill and transition into the offshore wind industry.

Companies seeking to develop and upskill their workforce to undertake projects related to offshore wind farm development.

Career Pathways:

This course provides a solid foundation for career pathways such as Resource Analyst or GIS Technician in the offshore wind industry. These roles are central to the planning and optimisation of offshore wind projects, involving the analysis of spatial and environmental data to support site selection, resource assessment, and project design. The course equips learners with the essential knowledge and tools required to contribute effectively to data-driven decision-making in this rapidly growing sector.

Progression:

Upon completion of this course, learners can further develop their expertise by progressing into a range of specialised micro-credentials aligned with offshore wind project development. Recommended options include:

These courses offer valuable opportunities to build targeted skills relevant to both technical and managerial career pathways within the offshore wind sector.