Course content

The course includes the master's thesis in urban planning worth 30 ECTS credits. The master's thesis is an independent research project in which you investigate a theoretical or empirical problem. The thesis should demonstrate your ability to carry out an independent research task, and it must meet an academic level appropriate for a master's degree program. The thesis is primarily an individual project, but it may be conducted as a joint project between two students in the Master’s programs in urban planning or real estate and facilities management. The topic of the master's thesis must be relevant to urban planning/the urban planning field, but the specific topic is chosen by the student(s) in dialogue with the supervisor. The master's thesis may be carried out in collaboration with municipalities, companies, or other organizations.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The candidate

• will demonstrate comprehensive theoretical and practical knowledge of the knowledge base for planning, the planning of cities and places.

• will have advanced knowledge of regulatory requirements, decision-making processes, and governance mechanisms in planning

• will be able to communicate professionally within the field and contribute to evidence-based decision-making in planning.

Skills

The candidate will be able to

• address societal challenges through planning - across various spatial scales and sectors, with both local and international perspectives.

• evaluate physical dimensions, as well as the social, economic, and environmental impacts of urban planning practices and decisions.

• Communicate their research project in written format, with visualisations and through oral presentation

General competences

The candidate will

• independently conduct an investigate of a theme or question in urban planning, theoretically and empirically.

• utilise insights from advanced research and development relevant to the planning field.

• reflect critically on their own competence and knowledge in relation to social, economic, and environmental developments and pressures in cities.

Learning methods and activities

Master’s projects are assigned a supervisor in the fourth semester. The frequency and format of supervision are agreed upon between the student and the supervisor. The thesis is prepared through seminars in preceding semesters. At the beginning of the fourth semester a project sketch will be developed. The sketch must define topic, theory, and method for the thesis. Halfway through 4th semester the students will present the status of their work.

Mandatory activities

Participation in master seminars, project sketch, participation in and presentation at the mid-term seminar.

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

Bachelor's degree or equivalent with a specialization of at least 80 ECTS credits in planning-related subject areas. For admission to exam all compulsory and elective courses included in the study plan must be passed.