Geodesy and Geoinformatics Engineering - Bachelor's study program

What I found particularly “cool” about my geodesy studies was that you don't just learn dry theory, but always work with real and tangible applications. During my studies, I was particularly fascinated by how satellite signals (e.g. from GPS – Global Positioning System) and other sensors can be combined with a little “mathematics” to determine the “best” position of the user. In my role as a software engineer at ANavS, I am now applying the positioning methods I learned during my studies and contributing to their further development. Both the subject-specific content and concepts from other areas of geodesy help me not only to solve a wide variety of problems, but also to assess the quality of my solution.

What particularly excited me about the Geodesy program was the strong practical relevance and the wide range of topics. In the process, I also discovered my current field of work: photogrammetry. Today, I work as a product engineer on the development of the ArcGIS Reality Studio software, which generates realistic 3D models from aerial or drone images. Here, I can directly apply my knowledge from my studies in image processing, photogrammetry, GNSS, and coordinate systems.

1) “What did you particularly enjoy about studying Geodesy and Geoinformatics at the University of Stuttgart?”

What I particularly enjoyed was the diversity of topics covered within the program. The fact that a wide range of subjects and practical content are included from the very first semester provides a pleasant contrast to the theoretical foundations in the early semesters.

2) “To what extent do you use the knowledge and skills from your Geodesy and Geoinformatics studies in your job?”

In my current job as a doctoral researcher in sea ice physics, I work on determining the bathymetry of meltwater accumulations on the ice. In doing so, I use my knowledge from my studies on a daily basis, as bathymetry is determined using a variety of geodetic methods. These primarily include drone- and helicopter-based optical and LiDAR systems, but also, among other methods, ground-based acoustic techniques.

I now work as a research assistant in the field of autonomous robotics and was surprised at how many concepts from my studies I encounter in my daily work. From coordinate transformations for robot control to computer vision for environmental perception, the lectures provide insights into many modern research areas. Programming is also part of my daily work, so I am glad to have become familiar with various programming languages during my studies. Because the exercises were always practical, it was also a lot of fun!

1) “What did you particularly enjoy about studying Geodesy and Geoinformatics at the University of Stuttgart?”

One reason I chose to study Geodesy and Geoinformatics was the unique combination of scientific and technical subjects, along with hands-on outdoor work. During my Master’s study program at the University of Stuttgart, I particularly appreciated that the various specializations always had practical relevance to current applications. The small number of students in the study program and the exercises in small groups allow for direct contact with lecturers and institute staff; at the same time, lively contacts with fellow students develop across semesters. This quickly led to friendships that have lasted to this day.

2) “To what extent do you use the knowledge and skills from your Geodesy and Geoinformatics studies in your job?”

After completing my studies and a surveying traineeship, I now work in the public sector, currently as a consultant. As a result, I deal with tasks and topics that require solid geodetic expertise on a daily basis. For me, the program provides an indispensable foundation, enabling me not only to handle measurement techniques confidently in complex property surveys but also to apply a solid understanding of error analysis and coordinate systems, which is crucial for these tasks.

At the same time, the combination of analytical thinking and legal knowledge acquired during my studies and traineeship enables me to translate complex issues into legally sound statements and to provide well-founded support to the office management on strategic leadership, budgetary, and personnel matters.

1) “What did you particularly enjoy about studying Geodesy and Geoinformatics at the University of Stuttgart?”

What I particularly liked about my Geodesy studies was the diversity. The many practical and application-oriented exercises helped me deepen the theoretical knowledge from the lectures and apply it directly. Above all, the outdoor exercises provided a lot of variety and fun. Through the four main subject areas – Engineering Geodesy, Photogrammetry, Physical Geodesy, and Navigation – the program goes far beyond classical surveying and addresses many current challenges.

2) “To what extent do you use the knowledge and skills from your Geodesy and Geoinformatics studies in your job?”

As a research associate and doctoral researcher, I am involved in a research project focused on optimizing terrestrial laser scanning networks. In doing so, I draw on many aspects of my studies on a daily basis, such as knowledge of laser scanners, programming skills, optimization strategies, generating and processing 3D models, and critically evaluating results. Moreover, in the exercises I supervise, I have the opportunity to directly share the knowledge I have acquired with the students.