Classes

Fall Semester

Geographic Information System and Satellite Data Analysis for Economics Research (Graduate School)

This course provides new and cutting-edge technology to answer modern issues faced by modern society. From an economic research point of view, we always look for the variables that play important roles. However, these variables are only visualized in numbers within tables, which is difficult to understand. Using Geographic Information Systems we will be able to visualize the variables using many different types of geometry, and we will be able to evaluate them in a more detailed and accurate way. Not only how the impact or effect, but more importantly where the impact or effect has appeared. Students are expected to have the ability to cutting-edge technology (Desktop-based and Cloud-based GIS software) to answer their research questions. The figure beside is a field visit to the The Science Museum of Map and Survey at Tsukuba City, as part of the learning process

Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (Undergraduate School)

This course provides basic understanding of the fundamental concepts, principles, functions, and applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in the domain of social science. A special focus of the course will be to illustrate the utility of GIS in applied studies such as data acquiring, inputting, storing, managing, analysing, and mapping geospatial data. We will cover widely used database such as Landsat-8 and Sentinel-2, nighttime imagery, global impervious surface area, and world land cover. We will learn using free and open-source GIS software like QGIS and GeoDa for case-based focus on real-world applications.

Seminar (Undergraduate & Graduate School)

Students present their master's thesis concept and research progress at a seminar attended by all faculty members of the program. By receiving multifaceted comments from all faculty members, students will acquire problem-finding skills, higher-level economic analysis skills, presentation skills, and the ability to respond to comments.

Spring Semester

Data Science for Social Sciences (Undergraduate School)

This course is Data Science for Social Sciences. This course will provide an understanding of the fundamental principles and applications of Data Science. A special focus of the course will be to illustrate the utility of Data Science in Social Science studies. Basic techniques for data obtaining, wrangling, curating, managing, processing, exploring, questioning, analysing, and communicating the result will be introduced. Ethical and reproducibility issues will also be discussed.

First Year Seminar  (Undergraduate School)

This course is designed to help students become familiar with the educational system and campus life at the University of Tsukuba. Important information regarding living in Japan as a foreign resident and a general introduction on Japanese society will also be provided.