A spatial sciences program can help students learn about a variety of different types of data which are related to places and locations. They can include a range of topics, such as surveying, remote sensing, data management, statistics, and cartography.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.